mega65, the open source implementation of the never released Commodore 65 which utilizes modern design standards and technology, has revealed its (sold-out) DevKit, accompanied with a stunning assembly video.
Originally intended as an enhanced C64, the Commodore 65 never saw production due to the liquidation of Commodore Business Machines. While some devices escaped the closure – and sell at auction for five figures – the promising project never saw mass releases.
The mega65 project aims to change that, with an 8-bit 48 MHz CPU with additional 32-bit instructions implemented in FPGA. With HDMI out and a Commodore 64 mode (as per the original Commodore 65 and even the 128), the mega65 has 128KB of RAM, expandable to a maximum 128MB. There’s also a microSD card slot, Ethernet, support for external C64 drives (e.g. the 1541 and 1571) and MEGA-OS, an all-in-one hypervisor and compact operating system.
Currently the consumer version of the mega65 is behind schedule to it’s encouraging to see the DevKit landing. For updates, keep an eye on the mega65 Twitter page.
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Christian Cawley is the founder and editor of GamingRetro.co.uk, a website dedicated to classic and retro gaming. With over 20 years of experience writing for technology and gaming publications, he brings considerable expertise and a lifelong passion for interactive entertainment, particularly games from the 8-bit and 16-bit eras.
Christian has written for leading outlets including TechRadar, Computer Weekly, Linux Format, and MakeUseOf, where he also served as Deputy Editor.
When he’s not exploring vintage consoles or retro PCs, Christian enjoys building with LEGO, playing cigar box guitar, and experimenting in the kitchen.
