WRITING CODE FOR THE C64: 4- BEGINNING BASIC #2

One of the most important aspects to coding is understanding how to use the arithmetic operations available on the C64. It is capable of solving simple arithmetic and more complicate maths such as algebra and trigonometry, these functions are commonly used in game programming. Arithmetic Symbols There are four arithmetic symbols which you can use […]

Cauldron : C64 Review

In the early days of the C64, decent arcade adventures were few and far between. Then Cauldron came along with it’s combination of platforming and shoot -em up mechanics. It also featured a heavy adventuring flavour as well bringing a unique and spooky narrative to the expanding C64 library. There’s evil abound! In the form […]

Retron 77 – Bringing Atari 2600 into the 21st Century

by Mark Michel As a video game collector, I’m always on the lookout for new acquisitions for my extensive collection. While I am largely an Xbox gamer nowadays, I still enjoy playing games from my youth; especially my beloved Atari 2600. The Atari was a fantastic 8-bit system that had a plethora of titles to […]

WRITING CODE FOR THE C64: 4- Beginning BASIC #1

Most beginners to coding on the C64 won’t start with Machine Code or Assembly language coding. They will begin to explore their programming potential with BASIC. I included the previous chapters on Assembly language to help beginners understand what goes on behind the scenes when we craft a game or a program in an interpreted […]

WRITING CODE FOR THE C64: 3– ASSEMBLY LANGUAGE PT 2

In this section of my tutorial blog I’m going to look at how we can alter the bits instead of just moving them. The most important aspect of coding is about control. I want you to feel empowered and to be able to craft your own games and programs with all of this knowledge. Math […]

WRITING CODE FOR THE C64: 3– Assembly Language pt 1

Assembly Language is used as a convenient way for humans to work with the opcodes (discussed in Chapter 1) required for a microprocessor to function. This is a step up from having to work with the pure binary in machine code. Assembly language contains three character mnemonics which represent each opcode and a number base […]

WRITING CODE FOR THE C64: 2 – All About the Numbers

The above image shows the motherboard of the Commodore 64, contained within the motherboard are circuits. These circuits are designed to have two states : on and off. These states are represented with different electronic voltage levels. This is why we say that all data or information which flows through a computer is a stream […]

Writing Code for the C64: 1 – The Hardware

There’s an incredible buzz at the moment regarding the C64 Maxi machine which has just been released. It’s a a faithful recreation of one the most iconic 8-bit machines ever created. Featuring 64 games, a beautiful keyboard and an authentic joystick, this is an essential purchase. I’ve been so excited by this latest product from […]

Sonic the Hedgehog : Master System Review

The Master System is sometimes overlooked in the Retro gaming world. Most American gamers had purchased the NES and that was their first foray into the 8-bit arena. I however had opted for the sleek, black beauty that was the Master System. It heralded a new era for me as a gamer, moving away (temporarily) […]

Combat School : Commodore 64 Review

Genre: Action / Arcade Publisher: Ocean Software Combat School for the C64 was an incredible conversion of Konami’s arcade smash hit. This is the chance to see if you would get through the tough physical and mental discipline needed to become an elite soldier. It’s a unique premise, in an era which was generally all […]