Commodore Format
C64's last champion
Commodore Format supported the Commodore 64 through its twilight years, providing reviews, type-in listings, and cover tapes when other magazines had moved on.
Overview
When other magazines abandoned the Commodore 64 for 16-bit machines, Commodore Format stayed loyal. From 1990 to 1995, it provided C64 users with reviews, news, and cover-mounted tapes featuring playable games. The magazine documented the machine’s dignified twilight.
Fast facts
- Publisher: Future Publishing.
- Run: October 1990 – November 1995.
- Issues: 61 total.
- Format: Magazine with cover tape.
Content focus
| Section | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Reviews | New C64 releases |
| Features | Technical guides, interviews |
| Cover tape | Full games, demos |
| Tips | Cheats, solutions |
| Type-ins | BASIC and ML programs |
The cover tapes
Each issue included:
- Full games (older titles)
- Playable demos
- Utilities
- Reader submissions
Era context
By 1990:
- Amiga dominant in UK
- C64 sales declining
- Major publishers exiting
- Budget games thriving
Commodore Format served remaining enthusiasts.
Notable coverage
| Topic | Significance |
|---|---|
| Budget games | Main C64 market |
| European imports | German, Scandinavian games |
| Scene news | Demo and music coverage |
| Hardware mods | Extending C64 life |
Writing style
Characteristics:
- Enthusiast perspective
- Honest about limitations
- Celebrating quality releases
- Community-focused
Final years
As C64 faded:
- Fewer new releases to review
- More retro retrospectives
- Cover tape compilations
- Graceful conclusion
Staff
Notable contributors who loved the machine and documented its final commercial years with dedication.
Legacy
Commodore Format:
- Documented C64’s end era
- Preserved late-period games
- Maintained community
- Now collector’s items
Related magazines
| Magazine | Focus |
|---|---|
| Zzap!64 | Earlier, ended 1992 |
| Commodore User | Broader Commodore |
| Your 64 | Earlier period |