Retro Computing

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Modern Retro Hardware

MEGA65

21st Century Commodore 65

The MEGA65 is a new 8-bit computer based on the unreleased 1991 Commodore 65, the sequel to the legendary Commodore 64. Not an emulator - this is real hardware with FPGA-based C65-compatible implementation running at 40.5 MHz.

Specifications:

  • 45GS02 CPU running at 40.5 MHz (~50x faster than C64)
  • 384 KB fast RAM, 8 MB serial RAM
  • VIC-IV video controller with HDMI output
  • 4 SIDs, OPL2, 4-channel 16-bit DMA audio
  • 100 Mbit Ethernet, dual microSD card slots
  • Real 3.5" floppy drive option
  • Cherry MX keyboard with metal frame

Programming:

  • BASIC 65 Version 10 built-in
  • Full C64/C65 compatibility
  • 100% open-source hardware and software
  • Comprehensive wire-bound User's Guide included

Links:

Ultimate C64

Modern FPGA-Based C64 Recreation

The Commodore 64 Ultimate is the official modern recreation of the classic C64, built with AMD Xilinx Artix-7 FPGA technology. First new Commodore hardware in over 30 years, offering 99% compatibility with original software and hardware.

Specifications:

  • Artix-7 FPGA with 128 MB DDR2 RAM
  • Turbo Mode: 48 MHz (48x faster than original)
  • Dual SID chips for authentic audio
  • HDMI and analog video output
  • USB-A (3 ports) and USB-C connectivity
  • 100 Mbps Ethernet and Wi-Fi
  • Mechanical keyboard (Gateron Pro 3.0 switches)

Features:

  • Compatible with 10,000+ original C64 games
  • Supports original cartridges and peripherals
  • Full N-key rollover and macro support
  • Firmware updates via network

Links:

Assembly Programming

6502 Assembly Language

The Heart of Classic 8-Bit Computing

The 6502 processor powered the Commodore 64, Apple II, Atari 2600, NES, and many other classic systems. Learning 6502 assembly opens the door to understanding and programming these legendary machines.

Learning Resources:

Why Learn 6502:

  • Simple, elegant instruction set - great for learning
  • Direct hardware control and optimization
  • Active retro computing community
  • Foundation for C64, NES, and Apple II development

45GS02 Programming (MEGA65)

Enhanced 8-Bit Processor

The 45GS02 is the MEGA65's custom processor, based on the 65CE02 with significant enhancements. It's backward compatible with 6502 code while adding powerful new features like 32-bit operations and privileged modes.

Key Features:

  • Full 6502/65CE02 compatibility
  • 32-bit virtual register (A,X,Y,Z combined)
  • Privileged mode for OS/hypervisor
  • Relocatable base page (not just zero page)
  • Enhanced instruction set with new opcodes

Resources:

Assembler Support:

  • ACME - Full 45GS02 instruction support
  • Kick Assembler - MEGA65 extensions
  • jAsm - MEGA65-specific assembler

Development Tools & Environments

C64 Development Tools

Modern Tools for Classic Computing

Professional development environments and tools for creating C64 software in 2025, with modern IDE features and one-click testing.

Integrated Development Environments:

  • C64 Studio - Full-featured IDE with debugger
  • Turbo Rascal SE - Complete suite with compiler & editor
  • Sublime Text + Kick Assembler + VICE - Syntax highlighting with one-click build

Assemblers:

  • Kick Assembler - Advanced macro system
  • ACME - Fast, supports illegal opcodes
  • ca65 (part of cc65) - C and assembly

Graphics & Music:

  • GoatTracker V2 - SID music composition
  • Multi Paint - Bitmap and sprite editor
  • Pixcen - Logo and multicolor graphics

Emulators:

  • VICE - Industry standard C64 emulator with debugging

MEGA65 Development Tools

Tools for the Next Generation

Development environment and tools specifically designed for MEGA65 programming, combining modern workflows with retro hardware.

On-Device Development:

  • EasyAsm - Full assembly environment running on MEGA65
  • BASIC 65 Version 10 - Enhanced built-in BASIC
  • Eleven - MEGA65 mode development environment (in development)

Cross-Development (PC-based):

  • Kick Assembler with MEGA65 extensions
  • ACME with 45GS02 support
  • Xemu - MEGA65 emulator for testing

Transfer & Deploy:

  • mega65_ftp - File transfer via serial or network
  • m65 tool - ROM manipulation and deployment
  • Ethernet transfer for rapid iteration

Resources:

Communities & Resources

C64 Communities

Connect with Fellow C64 Enthusiasts

Learning & Reference:

  • Codebase64 - The #1 source for C64 programming articles, tutorials, and source code
  • C64-Wiki - Comprehensive C64 encyclopedia

Forums & Discussion:

  • CSDb - Scene database and forums
  • Lemon64 - Active forums and game database

What You'll Find:

  • Source code examples and tutorials
  • Hardware tricks and optimization techniques
  • Active help forums for beginners
  • Demo scene releases and competitions

MEGA65 Community

Join the MEGA65 Revolution

Official Resources:

Community Spaces:

  • MEGA65 Discord - Real-time chat and support
  • MEGA65 Forums - Traditional discussion board
  • Forum64 - German-language community

Developer Resources: