WRITING CODE FOR THE C64: 4- BEGINNING BASIC #3

Thinking through Problem Solving as a Programmer Most of us have been exposed to the idea that computers can make decisions. This is true but before the computer can make a decision, the programmer must tell it how. One of the magic elements about computer science is that after you have written a program and […]

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 […]

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 […]