Commodore 64
Technical Specifications
- CPU:
- MOS Technology 6510 (based on 6502)
- RAM:
- 64 KB
- Released:
- Sun Aug 01 1982
- Origin:
- United States
The Commodore 64 was the most successful home computer of all time, with sales between 12.5 and 17 million units worldwide. Released in August 1982, it dominated the home computing market throughout the 1980s with its powerful graphics and sound capabilities, affordable price point, and extensive software library.
The C64’s MOS Technology 6510 processor, running at approximately 1 MHz, was paired with custom chips that gave it capabilities far beyond its modest specifications. The VIC-II graphics chip provided colorful sprites and bitmap graphics, while the legendary SID sound chip delivered three-channel audio with features that wouldn’t be seen in consumer PCs for years to come.
Key Features
- 64 KB of RAM - More memory than most computers of its era
- Advanced Graphics - 16 colors, sprites, and multiple display modes
- Revolutionary Sound - The SID chip became legendary among musicians and game developers
- Extensive Software Library - Over 10,000 commercial titles released
- Built-in BASIC - Commodore BASIC 2.0 for learning programming
Cultural Impact
The Commodore 64 was more than just a computer—it was a cultural phenomenon. It introduced an entire generation to computing, gaming, and programming. Many of today’s software developers got their start typing BASIC programs from magazines into their C64s.
The machine’s combination of affordability and capability made it accessible to middle-class families worldwide, democratizing access to computing technology in a way that had never been possible before.
Why Learn C64 Programming Today?
Programming the Commodore 64 teaches fundamental concepts that remain relevant in modern software development:
- Memory management - Working within tight constraints
- Performance optimisation - Making every byte and cycle count
- Hardware interaction - Direct programming of chips and registers
- Assembly language - Understanding how computers work at the lowest level
- Creative problem solving - Achieving impressive results with limited resources
The skills you learn programming the C64 will make you a better programmer on any platform.
Learning Phases
Phase 1: Game Development Foundations
Create your first complete retro games using authentic 6502 assembly! Master game development fundamentals while learning assembly through exciting hands-on projects that showcase the C64's unique capabilities.
Phase 2: Advanced Assembly Techniques
Learn sophisticated 6502 assembly programming with interrupts, advanced addressing modes, and optimization techniques. Build complex data structures and create responsive, efficient programs.
Phase 3: Hardware Programming - VIC-II & System Architecture
Learn the C64's custom hardware programming. Learn the VIC-II graphics chip, CIA timers, SID sound chip, and memory banking to create programs that push the C64 to its limits.
Phase 4: Advanced Graphics & SID Sound Programming
Create stunning visual effects and sophisticated audio with advanced VIC-II programming and complete SID chip expertise. Build smooth scrolling worlds, complex animations, and rich musical compositions.
Phase 5: System Programming & Utilities Development
Learn system-level programming and utility development. Create disk utilities, memory managers, debuggers, and system enhancement tools that demonstrate professional software development skills.
Phase 6: Game Engine Development & Professional Framework
Build reusable game engines and professional development frameworks. Create sophisticated systems for sprite management, collision detection, sound mixing, and game state management.
Phase 7: Demo Scene & Advanced Effects Programming
Enter the world of demo scene programming and impossible effects. Learn to push the C64 beyond its limits with advanced graphics tricks, mathematical effects, and artistic programming.
Phase 8: Professional Portfolio & Expert Projects
Demonstrate complete C64 programming expertise through ambitious commercial-quality projects. Build your professional portfolio with sophisticated games, utilities, and demos.