Former Xbox executive Larry Hryb, widely known as “Major Nelson” within the gaming community, has joined the team behind the Commodore 64 Ultimate, a modern reimagining of the iconic 1980s home computer. The move comes after Hryb’s recent departure from Unity and signals a new chapter for the veteran gaming industry figure.
Hryb’s connection to the new Xbox CEO, Asha Sharma, was recently reported, with the two having met shortly after Sharma took the helm. Even as hopes were raised that Hryb might return to Xbox, he has instead taken on a role as community development advisor with Commodore International Corporation.
Commodore announced Hryb’s appointment, stating that he will help strengthen existing relationships and introduce the Commodore brand to a new generation of creators, developers, and enthusiasts. The Commodore 64 Ultimate, which has already received positive reviews, aims to recapture the spirit of the original while incorporating modern technology.
“For decades, fans have continued to preserve the legacy by organizing events, building new hardware and software projects, and keeping the Commodore spirit alive,” Commodore International Corporation said in a statement. “As the brand now looks toward its next chapter, Hryb will help the company strengthen the existing relationships while also introducing Commodore to a new generation of creators, developers and enthusiasts.”
Hryb himself expressed enthusiasm for the community-driven nature of the Commodore project. “I’ve always believed the best thing a company can do is collaborate with its community,” he said. “The Commodore community didn’t wait – they built something remarkable on their own. Now we get to build together.”
His responsibilities will include leading initiatives for community engagement strategies, events, developer relations, and programs that connect Commodore’s history with contemporary technology and creativity. The Commodore 64 Ultimate represents a growing trend of retro computing experiencing a resurgence in popularity, driven by nostalgia and a desire for simpler, more customizable technology.
