Exploring TheC64 "Maxi" Full-Size Commodore 64 Replica

8-Bit Show And Tell2 minutes read

Robin is reviewing the new C64 from Retro Games Limited as a substitute for the vintage C64, comparing size, ports, keyboards, and improvements from the C64 Mini. The new C64 provides easy setup, programming in BASIC, virtual disk insertion, and support for various file formats, making it a viable alternative for those without multiple real C64s.

Insights

  • Robin's absence from recent videos is due to recovering from a cold flu, ensuring transparency in communication with the audience.
  • The new C64, received for free due to past involvement in programming, offers notable improvements over the C64 Mini, including a heavier weight, better joystick, and power supply, making it a viable substitute for vintage C64 enthusiasts seeking enhanced functionality and ease of use.

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Recent questions

  • How does the new C64 compare to the classic C64?

    The new C64 is being reviewed as a potential substitute for the vintage C64, with a focus on differences in size, weight, ports, and keyboard design. The comparison also extends to improvements made by Retro Games Limited from the C64 Mini to the new C64, such as enhancements in the joystick and power supply.

  • What features does the new C64 offer for programming?

    The new C64 provides a classic mode that allows programming in BASIC with correct key mappings for ease of use. Additionally, the device supports utility cartridges like Turbo Macro Pro for assembly language programming. Users can access a system information screen to check the current firmware version and download updates from the c64 website.

  • How can I access boot mode on the new C64?

    To access boot mode on the new C64, users need to switch to classic mode for a different experience. The device also offers a menu button that enables saving states for programs, including BASIC, with four slots available for convenience.

  • What files can be used with the new C64 for program loading?

    The new C64 allows users to attach D64 and DAT files for virtual disk insertion, enabling program loading. The device also offers a large disk space for saving revisions of files in the BASIC environment, providing ample storage for programming needs.

  • How does the new C64 handle different file formats?

    The new C64 is capable of handling T-64 files, G64 files, and other formats that the real C64 may struggle with, making it a useful alternative for those without multiple real C64s. The device showcases its capabilities with a new game, San Tron, demonstrating features like auto fire and joystick noise reduction.

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Summary

00:00

"Review: New C64 vs Classic C64"

  • Robin is recovering from a cold flu, explaining the absence of recent videos.
  • Received the C64 from Retro Games Limited for free due to past involvement in C64 programming.
  • Not an employee but a contractor for the C64 project, clarifying lack of bias.
  • Focus of the review is on whether the C64 is a good substitute for a vintage C64.
  • Comparison between the original European release and the North American release of the C64.
  • Differences in size and ports between the original C64 and the new C64.
  • The new C64 has a heavier weight compared to the C64 Mini.
  • Detailed comparison of the keyboards between the new C64 and the classic C64.
  • Inclusion of a serial number on the new C64, with varying numbers seen on Facebook.
  • Addressing improvements made by Retro Games Limited from the C64 Mini to the new C64, including the joystick and power supply.

17:56

"Enhancing c64 Experience with Classic Mode"

  • To access boot mode on the c64, switch to classic mode for a different experience.
  • System information screen displays current firmware version, with updates available on the c64 website for download.
  • Video output set at 60 Hertz is crucial for smooth scrolling and video output on HDMI link.
  • Classic mode allows programming in BASIC with correct key mappings for ease of use.
  • Menu button enables saving states for programs, including BASIC, with four slots available.
  • Attaching D64 and DAT files allows virtual disk insertion for program loading.
  • Large disk space available for saving revisions of files in the BASIC environment.
  • Utility cartridges like Turbo Macro Pro can be launched for assembly language programming.
  • Lack of a reset button on the c64 is noted, with a suggestion for a soft reset option to retain memory.
  • RAM expansion unit support can be enabled through a workaround, providing additional memory for development purposes.

35:34

"Effortless setup and enhanced C64 capabilities"

  • Easy setup with just one power cord and HDMI or USB stick, allowing quick switching between PAL and NTSC on the device, unlike the real C64 which requires more effort for the same task.
  • The device handles T-64 files, G64 files, and other formats that the real C64 struggles with, making it a useful alternative for those without multiple real C64s.
  • A new game, San Tron, is showcased, demonstrating the device's capabilities with a Christmas-themed version of a previously played game, highlighting features like auto fire and joystick noise reduction.
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