Is "TheC64 Maxi" any good? - Full sized C64 Unboxing and Review

After waiting a long time for the release of "TheC64", I finally got my hands on one. But is TheC64 Maxi any good? Watch to find out. Check out the brand new Amiga 500 Mini - • The A500 Mini | Review...
Additional games shown in this video:
Carling the Spider - • Let's look at the Ulti...
The Ultimate 64 - • Building a new Commodo...
0:00 - Introduction
0:20 - Unboxing
0:55 - SHIFT LOCK Key
1:13 - First look around The C64
1:52 - Joystick unboxing
3:07 - First boot and setup
5:02 - SHIFT LOCK key follow-up
5:25 - Display Settings
6:10 - Adding additional games
9:46 - Conclusion
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[@DanielAyy]

This looks like a really solid product, honestly

[@gavinstapleton7294]

Just subscribed looks good thanks for the review 👍

[@jsmythib]

Bread bin w/clicky keys alone its a good buy :) Im waiting for the Commander x16 project - but this will keep me busy until then. Thanks for the review.

[@tomlake2732]

I'll be using that clear plastic shipping cover as a dust cover. Very neat!

[@jdryyz]

I was curious about this. I wonder how durable they are. There are real plastic dust covers like it being sold now but are kinda on the pricey side.

[@klenchr3621]

Thanks for video. I ordered the c64. I also have a 1982 and the ultimate was a game changer that got me back into the commodore. Some time ago my original SID chip failed. I got an emulated chip and it makes me happy. Can’t wait to try out thec64 maxi

[@iNimbleSloth]

Which replacement SID chip do you have? I’m loving that there is so much development going on at the moment for old 8-bit machines, both in terms of hardware and software.

[@klenchr3621]

@@iNimbleSloth swinsd on ebay for about 25 bucks. You have to get correct replacement for your defective SID....could be a voltage issue as to why. Anyway, to my ear, this is a good replacement for the casual play that I do.

[@klenchr3621]

@@iNimbleSloth armsid is another option for aboutt same price as swinsd.I have no idea how it really sounds but there are youtube videos to listen for yourself. It also just pops into the sid socket...true plug and play per their website

[@TaswcmT]

Interestingly enough, the case is the same size as a VIC20, not your typical breadbin C64. I hear that the earliest C64s used a VIC20 sized case (I didn't know this until yesterday), so they are just being true to the very oldest version. As for the keyboard, the membrane inside may not be an everlasting part - only time will tell how durable it is. I'd love to see a Cherry MX-based keyboard on this (would gladly have paid more). As is, I'll probably get myself one of these anyway.

[@stevesstuff1450]

Yep... there's enough videos now on KZbin comparing several different 80's bread-bin models of the original, that show this new "TheC64" uses one of the earlier 80's releases as a model, and is identical in size and outward appearance. - until you get round the back and side, of course ;-) I wouldn't have expected then to reproduce all the ports and cart slot to be honest - it would have pushed the price far too high. As it is, via the USB ports, it can emulate tape, disk (both d64, and d81 files), and cartridge programmes easily. as it is, it's a nice mix of old and new technologies being well implemented.

[@80Thom80]

Yeah, it’s often cited as a bad Commodore decision: using the same case as the Vic-20 was supposed to save tooling and design costs, but ended up putting a significant crimp on board design. That said, it did open the door to an excellent 1983 money-saving tip: buy a Vic-20 that somebody else is junking, get a compliant repair shop to order you a replacement C64 board, combine the two and marvel at your incredibly-cheap C64.

[@brostenen]

Right now, I am thinking if it is possible to find and add springs under the caps. It lacks the smooth feel.

[@tawagotoCage]

i suppose you could potentially swap the membrane easily from a real model

[@julianmiglio8288]

Hi, this is a very interesting video, explained very well, and of course, I love old computers like C64 :-)

[@gregparnell3002]

Great Informative video, thanks. I've decided to go for the £20 Controller from Argos and emulators 😁👌

[@fortitudevalance8424]

Got an original C64 recently and WOW what a test of patience. Waiting for the loading and going through the procedures.

[@iNimbleSloth]

🤣 yeah takes a while for sure, really makes you play the game for a while instead of just on to the next game. Some bits I'd recommend, if you've got a floppy drive or modern equivalent, then an Action Replay cartridge to help speed up the loading. The KungFu Flash cartridge lets you load from microSD card kzbin.info/www/bejne/qIHOn4mFodqdfNE Then this device kzbin.info/www/bejne/kGivmKuEirGko80 emulates a floppy drive with built in fast loader 😁, and these are great ultimate64.com/CartridgesWithTape if you can get hold of them, new ones have a long lead time, occasionally see them pop up for sale second hand.

[@brostenen]

I look at it, in a different light. To me, it is a recreation of the old machine in it entirety. Only using modern technology. That is why the use USB sticks for storage and not tape/disk interface. The image or video output is another critical element. It is really hard to get an solution that are modestly acceptable if you run an original machine and have no old school CRT. Unless, and I stress unless, you know what you are doing. In this case they went for the overall best solution, for futureproofing the thing. The keyboard are debateable. It feels like an Thinkpad X220 keyboard with tall caps. Only thing missing, are springs. The sound are good in 90 percent of all titles. Yet it is emulated and will never reach 100 percent perfect. All in all, a wonderfull machine. Worth the money.

[@jasonuk8333]

Regarding the shift-lock not latching, I read somewhere that no-one makes the mechanism required for it anymore. No doubt one could have been made up based on the original, but I guess that may have been costly for what is a fairly small detail, and this is a £110 device. I suspect the keyboard took up a fair portion of the production cost already, as mechanical keyboards don't tend to be cheap, especially for what is these days a very non-standard layout. I haven't tried this device next to my old C64 (not operational sadly) but the feel of the keyboard seems close based on memory. I think they did a good job based on my limited use so far. Captures the nostalgia, and does away with the problem of hooking an original machine to a modern TV and of course the loading times! I had a Mini, and that was good, but I didn't use it that much knowing the full-size was on the way. The size and working keyboard really increases the nostalgia factor, and makes it far more useful. Improved joystick too!

[@iNimbleSloth]

Yes, the keyboard opens up to many more games. And to be honest, the lack of latching key doesn't really matter as they have handled it quite well in software, and I'd rather pay a little less if it meant no latch. I think this will only be an issue for people who were hoping to cannibalise the device and use the case and keyboard for a Reloaded MKII or Ultimate64 motherboard. I do enjoy the history involved with handling and using original machines, but and it's a big BUT, like you say the ease of hooking up the re-created version to a modern TV and ease of loading games out ways the necessity to fetch the original one out each time I fancy a game - IMHO anyway.

[@GareWorks]

It's not a mechanical keyboard though - it's just a cheap rubber dome board with poor-quality keycaps that will wear out sooner rather than later. You can get cheap mechanical keyboards, but they cheaped out on this keyboard big time.

[@digital_underground]

I thought I was about to watch Bill Burr play with the C64

[@iNimbleSloth]

You do realise that he copied the look from me, right?? 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@digital_underground]

@@iNimbleSloth lmao

[@UKSCIENCEORG]

There are dozens of The64 unboxing videos on KZbin. They are all pretty much identical.

[@squirlmy]

Weirdly, 11 months later, they are not available in the US. Nothing for Xmas! 😭

[@PaulBarraclough]

Mines wrapped up and under the tree, looking forward to the Vic 20 mode.

[@iNimbleSloth]

Enjoy :-) "Counts down seconds 'till Christmas morning..." Our first home computer was a VIC 20, complete with a Space Invaders cartridge. Unfortunately it died back in the 80's. What was your favourite VIC 20 game?

[@PaulBarraclough]

@@iNimbleSloth My first game was Blitz, I think it came with it, but I used to love the Space Invaders cartridge too (Avenger) and the Galaxians cartridge as well, oh and 'Blue Meanies from outer space', and Amok. Too many to mention :)

[@computer-training-for-seniors]

Managed to get TheC64 Maxi working with a classic 1983 KoalaPad drawing tablet. I downloaded KoalaPainter II onto USB. Needed a USB adapter for the pad.

[@Jamesalec63]

That's amazing but are there any other programs like deluxe paint or other options for the older programs that came with commodore or amigas if say there was a mini Amiga or Max out that would be interesting?

[@iNimbleSloth]

Yes, many people would like to see an Amiga version, me included 😁 Until then - if then -, I suppose you could run GEOS on TheC64 or TheVIC20 (in C64 mode).

[@markgoodson1851]

i lost my sound great vid bud

[@scouse1967]

I've just been given one of these beauties for christmas (when it launched last year here in the UK,i held back because of the original price) Now i have this machine,all i can say is.It's worth every UK penny.It really does feel like stepping back in time to relive the old classic C64 games all over again.I can not fault it one bit.I'm a huge retro game fan and love retro emulation on my pc.I've got my fingers crossed that the company behind this machine,might bring out either a full size 1/1 of the Commodore 16 or the Commodore Amiga (with the A500,A600 and A1200 options choice built in) these would be awesome to see.

[@bramvanoost]

The A500 was just announced yesterday!

[@iNimbleSloth]

I have one on pre-order 😁 watch this space

[@bramvanoost]

@@iNimbleSloth cue excitement gif

[@nzoomed]

It looks like they made the plastic the same yellow colour of a non retrobrighted C64! I've seen worse, but its about the same colour as my bread in model. Nice to see a model that uses replica keys. Would be interested to see how similar they are to original keys but they could make great spares for people restoring their c64s. I would be just as interested in buying the case and keys from them if they look identical

[@iNimbleSloth]

Whilst the keycaps look and feel very similar to the original, unfortunately, they are of a different design so won't fit the original C64 keyboards.

[@nzoomed]

@@iNimbleSloth that's a shame. No doubt they have the same + sign shape stem that cherry MX keys use. I've never seen under a c64 key to see how different they look underneath

[@uroborous01]

Seeing this i cant wait to get mine delivered. I never actually owned one growing up. My parents weren’t the type to buy a computer that was mainstream like the commodore 64. They didnt really see the point after dad got a ti99 and never did much with it beyond setting it up for games. My brothers and i will have a blast with this thing come Christmas/ family get togethers. Nit pick: i thought all you readcoats pronounced the letter “H” as “heych”. Ok fun nitpick done. Loved the vid.

[@iNimbleSloth]

Yes, it is great for all the old games. A TheC64 Christmas sounds great fun, next your brothers will be wanting their own too. There's also a bunch of new developers for the Commodore 64 too, here is a couple that I like. protovision.itch.io/sams-journey & sarahjaneavory.itch.io/zeta-wing "heych" is the millennial way of doing things, traditionally it has always been aitch, never pronouncing the "h" www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-11642588 Glad to hear that you loved the vid :-)

[@marcusfranconium3392]

I loved to program those old games with simons basic , you could buy a few books and program the games your self . a wonderfull little machine.

[@markracer3281]

Thank you!!! You are awesome!!!...:)

[@reggiles4496]

Hi Adam, thanks of the review, brought back some great memories and though I've still got my original Amiga1200, I enjoyed using my C64 even more (shame I binned it). Anyway, at 10:08 you mention downloading the "modern" C64 games onto a USB. Are you able to copy over the older stuff that's been available on ftp sites for many years? Will these work too? Thanks for any advice :)

[@iNimbleSloth]

Yes, it reads the d64 files (floppy disc images) and crt files (cartridge images), no problems there. The new games that are being released are also in these file formats.

[@reggiles4496]

Cool, thanks for that feedback, good to hear they are compatible and has definitely helped my decision :)

[@robertoZX64]

Thanks for the review. A question: is the menu accessible only via the dedicated button on the provided joystick? If so, does this mean without the original joystick TheC64 can not be used at all? Thanks!

[@iNimbleSloth]

There are key combinations that you can press to access the menus. In my opinion, they aren't as user-friendly as the additional buttons on the joystick, but it does mean that if you wanted to use a different joystick then you'd still be able to access the menus. You'll find the key combinations on page 16 of the main manual retrogames.biz/thec64/support/manuals-thec64

[@geofftottenperthcoys9944]

Getting one in the new year! And yeas an Amiga one would be awesome!

[@brostenen]

The Armiga have been out for years. Like for the last 5 years or so.

[@iNimbleSloth]

I’ve not come across this. As an off-the shelf unit complete recreation (as per TheC64) or like the Ultimate64, a recreated motherboard that you drop in an existing case?

[@brostenen]

@@iNimbleSloth There is only the Reloaded MK2 board. It is a recreated 250469 board, that uses the original chips. And there is the mechboard as well. (Microswitch keyboard, recreation) nearly all the chips can be bought as new recreated ones (FPGA and Microcontroller) and the case are newly made, using original Model-C molds. Basically... You can do a brand new C64 with old technology, except for a few things... Those are: Keycaps are not produced, yet you can make new ones, using epoxy resin and homemade silicone molds The CPU are not produced anymore and old stock are 1/3 the price of a used C64. The VIC-II chip are not produced anymore and there are only sporadic talk about doing an FPGA clone. Some talks about taking the Vice code and implementing it. Basically. A new C64 in original form are possible. You just have to live with the fact that it will be a Model-C style machine.

[@PeBoVision]

Scalines always emulate the look of original play less effectively that an "artifact mode" would. Question: Can "The 64" handle SID files out of the box??

[@iNimbleSloth]

I have a bunch of SID files that play OK on my Ultimate 64, HOWEVER, TheC64 doesn't even acknowledge that they are on the USB stick, so that's a no :(

[@Syncopator]

Doc Cosmos looks like a facelift of Montezuma's Revenge.

[@iNimbleSloth]

I love seeing all these game titles I've never tried! Just looked this up and will have to give it a go. It's hard to believe that they are both on the same system, Doc Cosmos graphics are so much more detailed - IMHO.

[@Syncopator]

@@iNimbleSloth Actually, the one to find is Necromancer. It was one of my favorites on the Atari 800, and it looks like it was out on the C64 as well...

[@Syncopator]

Found it on myabandonware.com-- can this C64 Maxi run these kinds of downloads? Also found Spelunker there, another favorite.

[@iNimbleSloth]

@@Syncopator Yes, it can - just copy to a FAT32 formatted USB stick. I just downloaded and tried Necromancer. Workes a treat 😁

[@marcquestenberg8385]

TheAmiga500 Max with Gotek Floppy Emulator , Next Please!

[@iNimbleSloth]

"Take my money now" it what I'd be saying if that was available ;-) We can only hope that someone in the right place is readying and it happens.

[@neil36619]

Yeah, take at least £250 I'm guessing - It will not be cheap.

[@Syncopator]

I'd like to see an Atari 800 version...

[@brostenen]

It is called "Armiga".

[@ZxSpectrumplus]

I have just ordered one, very excited about it. I never have a c64 as a kid, so i really want this! But from the reviews i read and watched, it seems to be a bit light (basically, there is nothing inside other than the keyboard membrane, a large metal plate for weight, a Raspberry Pi boards and a USB extension board. Since there are lots of space at the bottom, i am thinking to add counterweight now to make it heavier. May i ask how heavy is it compared to a real c64?

[@iNimbleSloth]

Hi, I'm sure you'll have a load of fun. There are plenty of new games still being developed for the C64 as well! It feels not too dissimilar from an original in terms of weight.

[@jameslewis2635]

So nice to see a system actually come with everything you need to run it short of a monitor. Now if we could just get a version based on the Amiga 500, preferrably using an FPGA like the Mister project.

[@iNimbleSloth]

I'd love an Amiga again 😍

[@ForOdinAndAsgard]

@@iNimbleSloth Yeah I've got two of them in working condition. An A1200, not the most beautiful since she is discolored a lot and text on some keys is gone due to wear and tear. Then I have my A2000 which is museum worthy for the condition she is in. She is also pimped to the max with a co-processor, 3.x kickstart and extra memory.

[@sj-30000]

An amiga mini would be great

[@manicdataminer]

Folks, just look up Vampire V4 Standalone, soon to be released. Also exists as an accelerator for the A500 and A600, with a version for the A1200 in the works. OK, it's a different concept - not a replica but an enhancement of the original machines - but that's whats out there at the moment, short of emulation.

[@sj-30000]

@@manicdataminer Wouldn't know where to start with this..

[@gliderspace]

Hi! Question time: Have you tried to connect the Maxi to USB devices aside from thumb drives? USB to Ethernet adapters for example, or using USB to Original connection serial devices from the original Commodore 64, like the original controller, or some of those network devices people have been developing to accessing BBS and things like that? I'm curious about the limitations of the C64 Maxi when dealing with other softwares, as I can't find any info about the true operating system that is running below the interface you have access to. Thanks in advance!

[@iNimbleSloth]

I’ve not tried connecting anything other than the joystick and a USB stick. For an Ethernet adapter to function, I’m guessing you’d need some kind of access to the OS that the VICE emulator is running under so that it can be somehow “attached” the the virtual/emulated machine as some kind of serial modem. Please, someone correct me if I’m wrong or you know a way how to do this. BUT, I will try connecting a USB to Ethernet adapter to see what happens - thanks for the idea.

[@gliderspace]

@@iNimbleSloth No, thank YOU for being so nice! From a youtuber to another, it doesn't happen always. It is actually very complex to predict what may happen, which is why I asked. Basically, from what I've seen online, the emulator and interface run on top of Xserver on a very stripped down version of linux, which make me not completely dismissive of the idea that the Network card be recognized, even if it is only when doing JTAG access to the machine (serial). The company has been completely mute to my questions and that lead me to ask ppl online with a product in hands. Another thing that I find very interesting is the fact that with that much space in the body of the device, and the standard colored 4 cable connector of the keyboard to the main board, this may very well be just a USB cable. If this is the case, you basically can have two devices in one with little to no thinkering. Just put a raspberry pi and a smal breadboard to switch the keyboard between both and you can have a linux machine with usb 3.0, network and etc + a commodore 64 emulator machine. This would be awesome, but I'm too chicken to buy it without seeing someone attempting this before me hehehe...

[@iNimbleSloth]

@@gliderspace You're welcome 😊 Well I just tried a USB to Ethernet adaptor, it powered up OK and connected to my network switch. No DHCP requests were sent from it and so my router didn't issue an IP address to TheC64. Don't know if it has a static address that is in a different range to my home network though. I was hoping to do a port scan to see if any services were running and listening for connections such as FTP, SSH etc. Also, as for the keyboard, it is USB.

[@yournightmare9999]

I glad you afford that retro systems

[@RetroRobotRadio]

Be nice if they sold a package like this but with a Raspberry PI inside that you could set up however you want.

[@larsenmats]

I have both TheC64 and TheVIC20. I love them. My only small gripe is that they don't show the full overscan area. Some games will have graphics outside of the screen. Turbo Outrun is a good example. Most of the instrument panel will not show. So far I've only seen a few games that use the full overscan area. The benefit of this is that software/games in general will fill more of the screen. Only those few that utilizes the full overscan one will miss part of the graphics.

[@larsenmats]

Hold on. You can actually show the full overscan area by using the flag 'FH' in the filename. Found it in the manual and it works like a charm ❤

[@larsenmats]

I struggle to find any reason to use my real c64s/TC64 V2's over TheC64/TheVic20. Even the input lag is very minimal considering it's based on emulator.

[@iNimbleSloth]

Yeah, the convenience of loading from USB and HDMI connection is pretty neat.

[@HoldandModify]

Might I suggest a blanket for your chair? Until you can get a replacement? Otherwise. Lovely!

[@iNimbleSloth]

Yeah, I definitely need to grab something to cover the back of the chair for now. Needless to say, the cat is now banned from my computer room 😉

[@stormgirl09]

wow i didnt know they still made games like this if i didnt know any better i would of assumed those new games were really from the 80s like the rest!

[@Explore531]

wow so glad they finally has it on Amazon, I wish they have these games Dan Dare I and 2 and Little Computer people and Exploding Fist 2

[@iNimbleSloth]

You can play other games. You’ll need to Google search them, download them, copy to FAT32 formatted USB stick and your good to go 👍🏼

[@Explore531]

@@iNimbleSloth thanks!

[@TheDarkmore]

Do you have a feel or idea how long the keyboard will last? I want one for making games in basic and I need a keyboard with PETSCII symbols.

[@iNimbleSloth]

I honestly have no idea... :-(

[@nickolasgaspar9660]

For someone who didn't own a C64 or doesn't want to wear down his original machines its great solution. Its far more reliable than original bread-bins, cheaper to maintain and its practicality (fast loading without cryptic commands ) equals that of the Atari 8bit machines.

[@TheRetrospective]

Thanks for this great review. So this computer is not for retro programming, since there are no cartidge possibility. It’s a gaming console, then.

[@iNimbleSloth]

Whilst you can code in BASIC in the "Classic" mode, I tend to attempt any code in a Windows IDE (www.ajordison.co.uk), assemble on the Windows machine and export as a .d64 image which TheC64 handles easily. I prefer to code on my Windows PC as I prefer typing on that keyboard and have instant access to Google when I get stuck. But, yeah I agree this is pretty much a games console, with the advantage of HDMI. You may be a little more interested in the Ultimate 64, a fantastic recreated C64 motherboard with HDMI and Ethernet - kzbin.info/www/bejne/mV7GhKWiaKZ2jtk

[@gartmorn]

Looks good fun and has the retro look if perhaps not the feel. I don't know if I could justify spending that much when there are so many decent emulators available unless I was a c64 nerd!

[@iNimbleSloth]

That's me, C64 nerd ;-) I've yet to try the joystick on a Windows PC running VICE. I'll have to give this a go as I've seen that Game and Argos are selling just the new joystick on its own for £20 which would provide a better "feel" to the emulator. Keep your eyes peeled for a follow-up :-)

[@iNimbleSloth]

Here's the follow-up with the joystick and VICE running on Windows.

[@SuperRandomForum]

Does it work with multidisc files? I do watch a lot of demos from the demoscene and they come in 2 discs, does it work with discswapping? if not I am not interested.

[@iNimbleSloth]

According to the manual it does (page 58 and 59). I've not actually tried this myself yet. retrogames.biz/thec64/support/manuals-thec64#

[@SuperRandomForum]

@@iNimbleSloth Thanks!

[@darkman237]

Competition pro joystick- They are the BEST!

[@butch405]

Did you try to Play Maniac Mansion or Zak McKracken? I don‘t get them running on my C64 Maxi ( including newest Firmware)

[@iNimbleSloth]

Not tried these games yet. It could be that they don't like the quick load. Have you tried adding a flag to the file name? Apparently, some games need the slower "accurate disk" flag set. Setting the flags is covered in the manual. retrogames.biz/thec64/support/manuals-thec64 Do let me know how you get on!

[@scottrichardson5072]

If you put _AD in a file it will load in an "actual drive" mode. A lot more games will work in this way. Example maniacmansion_AD.D64. This is one of the biggest tricks to the c64. It works.

[@scottrichardson5072]

You can also try to get .CRT of the game which will run much better on your c64.

[@mikeyoung9810]

I've been wondering if the memory locations for programming are the same as the original and if the sprites work the same in this version.

[@iNimbleSloth]

It's running the original system ROM images in VICE so behaves the same as the original in terms of memory locations etc. So all the POKEs etc are the same :)

[@mickjt84]

Hey hey hey @Mike Young! I've also been looking at getting one of these.

[@KlingonCaptain]

I really wish that I could find one of these here in North America, but they seem to be perpetually sold out.

[@BollingHolt]

Pre-ordered my US version today!!! Oh, come on, November!!! :)

[@iNimbleSloth]

Yay! Finally released in the US 🇺🇸. What’s the first game you are going to play? An oldie or a modern release? I really enjoy Sam’s Journey.

[@BollingHolt]

@@iNimbleSloth I honestly don't even know! I grew up on a Timex Sinclair and a Coco 2 before I went to the PC World. I found a Commodore 64 in a trash pile back in the early 2000s and I hung it up on the wall of the computer center that I managed at a college for decoration. Before retrocomputing was cool. I figured the best way to get into the Commodore 64 right now would be something like this! So I am open to any suggestions as far as games are concerned. ;)

[@HiredGoonage]

scanlines look great

[@weirdtuberjournalism9757]

Never played the c64,alittle interested now!

[@iNimbleSloth]

Did you have any other 8-bit machine? I really love the ease of getting games onto TheC64 and the speed of loading them. HDMI also makes for easy connection to modern TVs.

[@weirdtuberjournalism9757]

@@iNimbleSloth actually my very first console was the gba

[@weirdtuberjournalism9757]

@@iNimbleSloth i want to yalk about the connecting of the c64,more specifically how you said hdmi made it easy, and at first i found myself lost,unable to connect (see what i did there) with your point of view...that is until i remember owning a wii and remember getrting this cable with 4 wire colors,those being ,yellow,green,white and red. I connect with this because in comparison to modern console and dare I say the wiiu (at a past point,unfortunately,loved that console and its eshop) because I remember how easy it was going to be to connect it.from now on and how much easier it will be when standard hdmi becomes wireless by default.

[@iNimbleSloth]

@@weirdtuberjournalism9757 Yes, HDMI, simple plug and play, not like the old school RF modulator where you had to "tune in" a channel on the TV. And the single cable connection of HDMI is much easier than the multiple cables of older consoles. I'm not sure wireless will make it easier for everyone though, but only time will tell 😉

[@bb.cute.channel]

Hope they will create an *Apple IIGS* replica or *Amiga* replica! 👍👍👍👍

[@iNimbleSloth]

Me too! 🤞

[@DaveF.]

I'd buy a replica Acorn BBC Micro in heartbeat - but the charm of that box, other than it's superb BASIC, was it's expandability, so I'm not sure how much sense that would make.

[@brostenen]

The ZX Spectrum Next are a thing now. Just saying.

[@joegrace5818]

Oh my gawd, I'd love an apple 2 replica!

[@brostenen]

@@joegrace5818 Apple II replica's have been on the market for lots of years. You buy it in a kit form and build it your self.

[@Hippieinthewoods]

A empty case would be nice fir a mITX and a 2slot gpu, with a slim ODD.

[@ArdaKaraduman]

is this identical to mini version emulation wise ? any improvements, or is it just the same in a bigger box ?

[@iNimbleSloth]

Lag is much improved in this version and the full size keyboard makes some games easier to play.

[@ArdaKaraduman]

@@iNimbleSloth Ah I see, thank you for the information ! I can live without the keyboard, but the lag improvement is something to consider. I have one mini coming in next week, I bought it cheap second hand for 25$. If lag bothers me too much, will have to dig out for the maxi ! Thanks ! I wonder if minis lag can be improved with a software update ? But maybe no. (Probably it is an incentive they want to use to sell the maxi).

[@EnjoySynthSounds]

Its a solid device. The firmare is now 1.6 and you can use the REU option ( Ram pack) so that means Sonic c64 and GEOS. Oh yes. The keyboard is good, eveything clicks nicely, the software is easy to use, firmware upgrades are a doddle. The main downside is the original supplied joystick 🕹️. These are just too hard to use these days. Instead get the Amiga mini gamepad as its compatibe. Retro games should work on getting improved compatibility going with standard gamepads. There is a limited pool for of 🎮 which are compatible. I'd like to see also, better games on the carousel. For example, there's no barbarian, arkanoid, ghost n goblins, cauldron 2, terra cresta, mikie, manic miner. All classics. And many more gems. I'm looking forward to the next firmware update to see what the company can do.

[@banditdog1338]

Where is your audio signal coming from? I have no sound so the hdmi cable must use the monitor speaker and mine don't have speakers, if not let me know.

[@iNimbleSloth]

Yes, my audio is from the HDMI. Mine is connected to a TV so has built-in speakers. If you don't have speakers in your HDMI monitor, then you can purchase an HDMI pass-through device which has audio output. This audio output can then be connected to some computer speakers.

[@DaveF.]

I had the same problem -but a £5 hdmi -> VGA + Audio splitter worked fine for me. I'm sure you can get something similar that can split the audio off the HDMI cable

[@nitramreltubify]

Would of liked all the original ports

[@Vlad-1986]

I never understood those "CRT" filters. I work daily with a CRT, and there is no "scanlines", flickering etc. Even in 70s CRT's like the PET don't have it (at least visible to the human eye). I think that everyone who does those filters never saw a real CRT and had them just described to them.

[@jack002tuber]

You didn't mention a delay. Is there a delay when playing the games?

[@iNimbleSloth]

I've not noticed any perceivable delay. The 8-bit guy did a test on this and the Maxi came out on top as the lowest delay kzbin.info/www/bejne/oanbY3lqm8ugm6c

[@the3cl3ctic]

How is the response? I heard some complain about joystick lag?

[@iNimbleSloth]

Not noticed any lag on the full size model. But the mini suffers worse from this. The 8-bit Guy did a great video covering this kzbin.info/www/bejne/oanbY3lqm8ugm6c skip to 8 mins 30 to see his lag tests

[@christailor9096]

How fast are the loadspeeds of d.64 files from USB ? Doe it require the games to load at the original C64 speed (zzzzzzz) or does it perform more like a fast loader ?

[@iNimbleSloth]

They load within a few seconds (almost instantly). So much less waiting around!

[@christailor9096]

@@iNimbleSloth Seems like some d.64 files are not loading at all :-( stuck at loading screen

[@iNimbleSloth]

@@christailor9096 Take a look at page 58 & 59 of the manual, it talks about adding flags to the file name. Apparently, some games need the slower "accurate disk" flag set. retrogames.biz/thec64/support/manuals-thec64

[@legobrickabrac]

I think it's great.

[@mikehill9806]

I hear that THE64 allows multi-disc games, is that correct?

[@iNimbleSloth]

Yes, multi-disk support is enabled, you'll find some information on page 58 and 59 of the manual retrogames.biz/thec64/support/manuals-thec64#

[@msbae]

Anyone know when/if they are being made available here in the USA?

[@iNimbleSloth]

This is the best group for such information, although don't directly ask that question as it drives the admins nuts. They do have a post from one of the admins saying that they will notify when they are released in the US - facebook.com/groups/209280506324242/ I also saw in this group that several people in the US made purchased from European sites and got delivered to the US. As far as power goes, since TheC64 is powered from USB, any 5V 1Amp USB supply will do. And the output can be set to either 50 or 60 Hz.

[@brostenen]

There are 12 for sale on ebay in italy riiiight NOW. Shipping world wide.

[@msbae]

I'll wait for the US release.

[@marcquestenberg8385]

TheC64 Max is in Germany and Austria sold off to 12/23/2019. I can order the TheC64 max. even about the Northsea to Germany in Pfund pay

[@iNimbleSloth]

Hopefully they get more stock soon. Do you live in Germany or Austria?

[@marcquestenberg8385]

@@iNimbleSloth Germany. Im going tomorrow to REAL.

[@matthewlee8725]

Can you download old games from somewhere on the internet onto a usb and play them on this machine please?

[@iNimbleSloth]

Hi Matthew, yes you can and I love playing some of the classics too! Not wanting to break any KZbin rules, I won't link directly here, but if you Google for "Download original C64 games", the first page is full of places to get them ;-)

[@matthewlee8725]

@@iNimbleSloth excellent. Looking forward to reliving my childhood gaming experiences and maybe writing a few more basic adventure games. Thanks for the quick reply.

[@massihkheiry8067]

How much ram and CPU speed possible on this? Sonic needs an expansion of ram and super CPU.

[@iNimbleSloth]

At least 256 KB REU. CPU Accelerator recommended for NTSC. If you've got a "TheC64" or "Ultimate 64", then these have a built-in REU, on the Ultimate, you need to enable it though.

[@MarkWhich]

I was expecting you to get the brick Power Supply out the box, How does the TheC64 get its power without one?

[@iNimbleSloth]

It’s powered by USB and has a micro USB socket on its rear. It does come with a USB power adapter.

[@MarkWhich]

@@iNimbleSloth Cool!

[@neil36619]

Fantastic. Actually better than owning A C64 and 1541 drive. Check out the PDF from the website that goes into a lot of detail and includes file name extensions for games that need them to load. Downsides, that joystick is just too insensitive for some titles - the transferal game on Paradroid for instance, its very difficult to jump from one node to one either side - try it.

[@iNimbleSloth]

Yes, the reduced load time of games is a boon! Have you tried a converter to enable use of an original joystick in TheC64, just wondering if that would make a difference on those games? If you do, I'd be keen to know which one you used and how you got on.

[@SlackrUk]

The shift lock fail is a deal breaker for me ;) In all seriousness, I'm very very close to going out and buying one!

[@SngGenius]

Hi nice video,can you add more games to the c64?

[@iNimbleSloth]

Yes, many sites offering downloads of free or paid for games. Just put the file on a USB stick, navigate to the USB drive and away you go. They won’t be added to the fancy carousel menu though. I have seen that an unofficial software utility has since been made available that will let you add them in this way...maybe I’ll do a video on this 🤔

[@SngGenius]

@@iNimbleSloth,here all downloads:www.theoldcomputer.com/roms/index.php?folder=Commodore/C64/Disk-Images

[@SngGenius]

Thanks!

[@WelshPaulJames]

Why no beige coloured electric room heater?

[@iNimbleSloth]

I take it you mean the massive power supply that the original C64 came with 🤣 Yes it is substantially colder in here when running TheC64 instead of my original C64C!

[@WelshPaulJames]

@@iNimbleSloth that's the one! My dad took my Vic20 back to the shop and made them explain why the brick was too hot to touch and there was a weird braided wire hanging off the tape cable. 🤣😂😂😂

[@jeanmacdobea2614]

c64 did not have viruses .i love that

[@gregb8571]

They did. I found one on a floppy once.

[@johnhoogstra8310]

I still like the 64C model over the breadbin model and even so many years later I still don't like the brown keys

[@iNimbleSloth]

Having had the C64C model as a kid, I too felt that this was the flashy new model and that the breadbin looked old and outdated. It's since grown on me a little. I even now have a C64C case (newly manufactured from Pixel Wizzard) with the breadbin brown keys in it ;-)

[@johnhoogstra8310]

@@iNimbleSloth I got the classic beige and sx 64 black one from them. I'm waiting for black keycaps now wich will hopefully be ready in may 2020

[@pb7379-j2k]

John Hoogstra good to know

[@WizardZazaOfficial]

Where can I find it?

[@iNimbleSloth]

Have a look here to see if any retailers in your country. retrogames.biz/thec64/retailers

[@peterodonnell3312]

I want a c64c model

[@iNimbleSloth]

This would be nice, but then I'd have to go out and purchase another version 🤣

[@seamusquain2706]

I Would Like One. I'd Type Code For Games From Magazines, And Save Them To A USB or digital cassette drive

[@iNimbleSloth]

Did you have an original Commodore 64? What's nice is you can create "virtual" floppy disks on the USB stick and use the same save and load commands as there was a real floppy drive connected to the machine.

[@randreas69]

@@iNimbleSloth I've taken care and dilligence to save everything away on 40 cassettes, no chromes lol. Now what do I do with them? My tape drive still worked but too many chips went wonky on the machine.

[@thedungeondelver]

No programming books? :(

[@iNimbleSloth]

No, doesn't come with any :( I suspect to keep the cost down.

[@DaveF.]

What programming books? The C64 had one of the least capable versions of BASIC written. POKE and a memory map is about as far as you're going to get.

[@GUISCHOL]

ok, guys, how is it possible to run GEOS on the theC64-maxi ?

[@iNimbleSloth]

There is no support for USB mouse 😥

[@GUISCHOL]

@@iNimbleSloth i can use the joystick for GEOS too, no problem. but the version of GEOS, what is on a D64 file, doesn't march. also how can i deactivate the disk accelerator; that's the problem I believe.

[@GUISCHOL]

i have the answer: i must start "geos.d64" with "geos_ad.d64"

[@stefanaveryon]

How can you run Platoon on this?

[@iNimbleSloth]

Hi Stefan, assuming you already have downloaded the game and have it on a FAT32 formatted USB stick, if it fails to run try adding the _AD flag to the file name. This stands for accurate disk drive, it will mean the game takes longer to load. So the filename on the USB stick would be platoon_ad.d64 A more detailed explanation here retrogames.biz/thec64/support/filename-flags-cjm-files

[@kevinwillson341]

Just impulse bought one of these off of Amazon for $129. It was the cheapest I've ever seen it, I shouldn't have purchased it but I couldn't say no...

[@TRONMAGNUM2099]

I hate I can't buy it here yet in the states.

[@iNimbleSloth]

I saw on a Facebook group that some people in the US managed to import from Europe, but even in the UK it appears to have sold out at most places. Hopefully you get one soon.

[@timecubed]

where do I buy one :(

[@iNimbleSloth]

Everywhere looks out of stock at the moment 😥 Amazon, Game.co.uk, shop4megastore, all these are places I've seen people say they've ordered one. I got my from Amazon.co.uk but not in stock right now.

[@timecubed]

@@iNimbleSloth ok thanks!

[@rpdee7344]

Like the fact that it is easier to hook up to a monitor with better graphics, but besides that it is lacking too much to be consider more than a toy game machine with retro games. I'll stick to my C=> 128 with all it ports so I can use Jiffy Dos to boot into C=>64 Mode and uses my disc drives and game discs and 512 memory cartridge with along with all my GEOS programs that made C=> the peoples affordable computer, not just a game machine. You think with todays tech that this new C64 would of been better than the original it is NOT.

[@iNimbleSloth]

C=> 128, I'm envious! Have you seen the Ultimate 64, this might be more up your street ;-) kzbin.info/www/bejne/mV7GhKWiaKZ2jtk

[@rpdee7344]

@@iNimbleSloth Still own the C128> and the 5 1/2" and 3 1/2" floppy drive, 512 memory cartridge, Jiffy Dos plus lots of the great 64 games and most of the Geos Software programs and even had a printer driver to run a HP Deskjet 500 Inkjet printer($500 when new). This computer was ahead of anything IBM PC MS Windows for its time having a sound chip. I only upgraded to a Gateway 2000 286 pc when Geos and PC only Games like Doom, Castle Wolfenstein came out for MS Windows 3.0 /win 95. The Commodore is the only computer I think I had plugged in 24/7 for years with no issues, very well built. The only issue with the C128> is there was very little software to use so I had to boot into the C64 mode for more software choices.

[@makima5238]

How can I record this?

[@iNimbleSloth]

I use an HDMI capture device from www.avermedia.com It sits inline with the HDMI and connects to another computer using USB. I then run the capture software on that PC to record the HDMI signal.

[@AceHogarth]

Qué hace Facundo haciendo reseñas de computadoras?

[@hgfhghghgfhfghgfhghg538]

Anyone else have an issue with all or most of there games loading from a flash drive they all seem to run very fast I've tyres changing hertz and systems and playing around with the file names with no luck. Can't get geos to run either so far disappointed already did firmware update

[@iNimbleSloth]

I've not come across any issues yet, I've only played a few games written for the PAL machine and using the 50 Hz output.

[@hgfhghghgfhfghgfhghg538]

@@iNimbleSloth ok wierd I can't get the Mario c64 running correctly it's frustrated me so I'm a bit upset it's annoying having to stuff around all the file names was easier on my original c64 with the sd2ie drive just put a Rom on and and it works perfect

[@iNimbleSloth]

@@hgfhghghgfhfghgfhghg538 in what way is it not running correctly? Is it too fast? Interestingly, this had troubles on my Ultimate64, where when there was too much going on, it would slow down.

[@hgfhghghgfhfghgfhghg538]

@@iNimbleSloth it runs way too fast like Mario timer runs down fast the whole game runs fast but it's not just that game it's anything that I load from a usb it's frustrating

[@jayrock4ya]

It's good you said that, no one wants to think your bald did it👍😜👍 nice review 👍👍

[@eightsprites]

Stopped video at 0:00, I’m buying one no matter what, just saying :-)

[@eightsprites]

What everyone wants to know: how is the input lag. And is it the same motherboard inside it as in the mini?

[@iNimbleSloth]

Spent some time playing the Doc Cosmos game and not noticed any perceivable lag from the joystick. Also, its not the same motherboard and uses different firmware from the mini.

[@eightsprites]

iNimbleSloth Thank you! Good to know the lag is gone. Can’t wait for it to be available in Sweden :-)

[@iNimbleSloth]

@@eightsprites One thing I've seen people saying is that the TV can sometimes introduce lag, and if there is a game mode on the TV, then to switch to this.

[@iambossofthegame]

you guys where am i buying one

[@giuseppeazzarello8426]

Good evening, I'm Giuseppe, an Italian, excuse of poor English, is translated with google traslator. I wanted to buy the c64 max , but before buying it I wanted to ask you if I can use it as a real c64, that is to make programs in basic, machine language and assembler thanks

[@iNimbleSloth]

Ciao Giuseppe, e saluti dall'Inghilterra all'Italia! To program in BASIC you need to switch TheC64 to classic mode, this works really well. But I don't know about coding in assembly directly on TheC64 as I have never attempted this - Maybe someone reading this can answer? I have only ever tried assembly for the Commodore 64 within a Windows application and then run the compiled program from USB stick on my TheC64. The IDE I use in Windows is ajordison.co.uk/ and the book I use to help is www.amazon.co.uk/Retro-Game-Dev-Derek-Morris/dp/0692980652/ I feel it is easier to do it like this on the Windows machine and then just copy the compiled program to the C64.

[@giuseppeazzarello8426]

thank you English friend, you convinced me I buy it, Merry Christmas

[@modder1975]

It's cool but the best games are missing: Montezumas Revenge, Bubble Bobble, Predator, Rambo, Ghost n Goblins, Double Dragon, Arkanoid, Last Ninja, Radar Rat Race, Karateka, Aztec Challenge, Kung fu master, International Karate, Yie are kung fu, International Soccer, Bruce Lee, Ghostbusters, Pit Stop 2 (they showed it on menu but I didn't see in the list games) and many others. I wonder if they can be added by USB. If not..would be quiet disappointing.

[@iNimbleSloth]

oooh, I love Bubble Bobble. Yes, any games can easily be loaded from USB, THeC64 supports a wide range of file formats, .d64, .g64, .tap etc. However, they won't be listed in the carousel, you'll need to access them the USB menu icon that appears when the USB stick is inserted.

[@modder1975]

@@iNimbleSloth That's great. Do you know where they can be found ?

[@iNimbleSloth]

​@@modder1975 To many to list, but if you Google "Download original C64 games" you'll get plenty of sites on the first page of results. If you are after new games then itch.io/search?q=Commodore+64 is a good place. Some of the games here are free, others cost.

[@ddabrahim]

What about programming in BASIC? Can you actually write programs and games with it? I did want to experience this retro computing and programming for such a long time but all modern options are crazy expensive and the original machines are tend to be faulty, not supported, too much trouble. If you can even do programming with this thing, for this price it seems the perfect option.

[@iNimbleSloth]

Yes, you can either enter the familiar basic screen through the menu or if you prefer, you can set it to boot straight to basic just like the original. As for saving your code, you can mount a virtual floppy drive with the image saved to a USB stick.

[@ddabrahim]

@@iNimbleSloth Thanks. I have just ordered one. Can’t wait to try it.

[@darkman237]

Where do you purchase?

[@iNimbleSloth]

I purchased mine from Amazon.co.uk

[@JB.zero.zero.1]

@@iNimbleSloth There are already assholes on Amazon flogging the units for £200+

[@computer-training-for-seniors]

Would be really cool if TheC64 Maxi could connect to the internet, which apparently it cannot. But you can run a mouse with GEOS. Some info here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aInWiHeBZqaAe80

[@BvsMAcosh]

""my cat did this""-being wrong on this many levels...

[@lurkerrekrul]

So basically it's just a C64 Mini in a bigger case with more USB ports and a built-in keyboard? You can't even use it properly without the included joystick?

[@iNimbleSloth]

Pretty much, but with working keyboard and improved lag.

[@DJ-Daz]

but where do I get one?

[@iNimbleSloth]

What country are you in? Across Europe I've seen people use Amazon, that's what I did - Amazon.co.uk. I've also read that someone in the States ordered from Amazon.co.uk and received theirs. In the UK, game.co.uk also appear to have stock. facebook.com/groups/209280506324242/ This Facebook group has people posting when they become available in their country. Since the power is just USB, an import might not be such a problem if you use an existing USB power supply.

[@hgfhghghgfhfghgfhghg538]

Try mighty ape eb games in hifi go to there website and it shows you a list of retailers for each county

[@tonymccooey7706]

I think I saw a bit of Summer Games in there..... Wasted a lot of hours on that game..

[@iNimbleSloth]

Thanks for watching! Only wasted if you didn't enjoy them ;-) I prefer to think of it as "honed my skills" in that particular area.

[@RETRONuts]

One thing you missed out was Classic Mode and now able to swap images using Media Access.. :).

[@iNimbleSloth]

I'll have to give this a go, thanks for mentioning it.

[@RETRONuts]

@@iNimbleSloth Alot easier now to mount images and using Multi Disk Games, I do wish TheC64 Mini had it,maybe one day but probably by that time I have a THEC64 Maxi.. :) This is a video of the insides of THEC64 Maxi,I thought you might be interested in it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/r5bFY5driq2tbK8

[@Nautilus1972]

I loved the C4 back in the day .. .not as much as the Atari 800XL .... but .. .now? WHY?

[@iNimbleSloth]

To mine Bitcoin, nah seriously "nostalgia" and that's about it really.

[@ForOdinAndAsgard]

@@iNimbleSloth Talking about nostalgia. Blade Runner for PC is available at GOG after an 8 year reconstruction period.

[@theroadrunner5519]

Will it run .t64 files?

[@iNimbleSloth]

I hadn't tried before, but read your comment and just tried one! It worked fine :-) So, have been able to run .t64, .d64, .crt and .tap. I've not tried .g64 yet.

[@theroadrunner5519]

Thank you sooooo much! I am buying one as soon as i can. I'm in usa. I've had a real c64 since 1983 and had it until 2000. All my stuff got lost when I moved and i miss my c64. used it every day mainly for business and games. Thanx again....cant wait to get mine!

[@iNimbleSloth]

@@theroadrunner5519 sorry to hear about your C64 :( When you get TheC64, hopefully, you'll be able to relive some of those fond memories. I've just been introduced to the game Sam's Journey, I'm hooked!

[@theroadrunner5519]

Wow, coool! Yeah i have researched a bluetooth c64 keyboard, cant find one so the maxi is the best solution. It'll look good on my 50 inch flat screen for sure! I just looked on ebay, dont see one yet, so I guess I have to wait awhile. By the way, do you use skype? Love to chat with you sometime....

[@iNimbleSloth]

No, not using Skype. Feel free to contact using the form on my site www.inimblesloth.com, I try to respond to all messages but sometimes life is a bit too hectic to allow.

[@darkmikka]

Hier könnt ihr Spiele für den C64 Maxi als auch Mini holen tausende von Titel aus USB-Stick: / Here you can get over 4000 C64Maxi / Mini Games on USB: thec64-maxi-games.aw3.de/