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The C64 Mini - Reviewed

The 8-Bit Guy・22 minutes read

The C64 Mini, compared to the 2004 version, has a subjective games list with unfamiliar titles, featuring a fake keyboard design and lacking a power brick. Compatibility issues arise with the device only having an HDMI port, with the European version operating at 50 Hz, and the firmware update process involves copying a file to a USB flash drive for application through the system information screen.

Insights

  • The C64 Mini's design emphasizes aesthetics over functionality, featuring a fake keyboard and lacking a power brick, which may lead to compatibility issues with some monitors due to only having an HDMI port.
  • Despite some initial hurdles, the C64 Mini offers a diverse selection of games with a save/load feature and the ability to load new games from a D64 image, showcasing its versatility and potential for customization through firmware updates.

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Recent questions

  • What are the key features of the C64 Mini?

    The C64 Mini is a compact device that comes with a USB power cable and HDMI cable, but no power brick. It has two USB ports and a power button on the side. The device only has an HDMI port, which may cause compatibility issues with some monitors. It offers a save/load game feature with multiple save slots for each game. Additionally, it allows users to load new games from a D64 image, such as the Planet X2 game, using a USB stick.

  • How does the C64 Mini handle game loading?

    The C64 Mini allows users to load new games from a D64 image by following a specific process. To load a game, users need to rename the file to THEC64-drive8.D64 and save it on a USB flash drive. The device also offers a BASIC program from the main menu that emulates a floppy disk for game loading. This process enables users to enjoy a variety of games on the C64 Mini.

  • What accessories are required for the C64 Mini?

    To fully utilize the C64 Mini, users need three essential accessories: a joystick, a USB keyboard, and a flash drive. The joystick is necessary for gameplay control, while the USB keyboard is used for various functions, including game loading. The flash drive is required to store and transfer game files, allowing users to expand their gaming library on the C64 Mini.

  • How does the C64 Mini address latency issues with keyboards?

    Users may encounter latency issues with certain keyboards when using the C64 Mini. Initially, an Apple keyboard with a built-in USB hub was used, but latency problems were encountered with the function keys. To resolve this issue, a generic USB keyboard with a USB hub was employed, effectively eliminating latency problems and providing a smoother gaming experience on the C64 Mini.

  • What is the firmware update process for the C64 Mini?

    The firmware update process for the C64 Mini involves copying a specific file to a USB flash drive and applying the update through the system information screen on the device. This update is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and compatibility with various games and features on the C64 Mini. By following the firmware update process, users can enhance their overall experience with the device.

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Summary

00:00

Review of C64 Mini: Design, Games, Compatibility

  • The C64 Mini is being reviewed, comparing it to the 2004 version.
  • The included games list is subjective, with many unfamiliar titles.
  • The C64 Mini's design is highlighted, including a fake keyboard.
  • The device comes with a USB power cable and HDMI cable, but no power brick.
  • The C64 Mini has two USB ports and a power button on the side.
  • The device only has an HDMI port, causing compatibility issues with some monitors.
  • Initial attempts to connect the C64 Mini to various screens were unsuccessful.
  • The C64 Mini's European version operates at 50 Hz, causing issues with some North American monitors.
  • The device has a save/load game feature with multiple save slots for each game.
  • Various games on the C64 Mini are briefly reviewed, with some being challenging or unfamiliar.

13:18

Loading Planet X2 Game on THEC64 Mini

  • Ability to load new games from a D64 image is demonstrated.
  • Planet X2 game is loaded using a D64 image on a USB stick.
  • File renaming to THEC64-drive8.D64 is necessary for game loading.
  • Three items required for C64 mini: joystick, USB keyboard, and flash drive.
  • Apple keyboard with built-in USB hub is used to accommodate limited USB ports.
  • BASIC program from main menu emulates a floppy disk for game loading.
  • Latency issue with Apple keyboard function keys is encountered.
  • Generic USB keyboard with USB hub resolves latency problem.
  • Firmware update process involves copying file to USB flash drive and applying update through system information screen.
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