Programming Commodore 64 with .NET takes the spotlight in Arctic Retro’s latest video. In this episode, Tommy steps away from his attic workshop and introduces viewers to the RetroC64 developer kit. With this modern toolkit, developers can write Commodore 64 programs using C# and familiar tools like Visual Studio and VS Code. For fans of retro computing, the RetroC64 platform promises a fresh way to interact with classic hardware.
Setting Up the Development Environment
Tommy begins by walking through his programming setup, switching between Windows and macOS, and highlighting the use of Visual Studio and Visual Studio Code. He explains that the RetroC64 SDK and extension, found on GitHub, let developers use .NET languages to target the C64. The required setup includes the Vice emulator and .NET SDK 9, both available across platforms. Step-by-step, Tommy shows how to install the RetroC64 extension and the necessary NuGet packages, making the entry point clear for developers.
From Hello World to Advanced Projects
RetroC64 simplifies C64 development. Tommy demonstrates how to create a basic project, showing viewers how to build and run a “Hello World” example right on the emulator. The video then shifts gears into more advanced territory, revealing how the SDK supports both BASIC and assembly programming. Tommy highlights the convenience of using named constants for C64 registers, which saves time and reduces the likelihood of errors.
Working with Sprites, Sound, and Disk Images
The episode moves on to graphical and audio capabilities. Tommy experiments with sprite drawing commands, using C# to generate sprite shapes and colors. The RetroC64 kit allows for music playback as well, and Tommy tests a SID file with the built-in player. He walks through code examples for drawing, sound, and even manipulating disk images, showing how easily programs can be exported to D64 files for use in emulators or real hardware.
Debugging and Workflow Efficiency
One of the standout features Tommy covers is the smooth workflow inside Visual Studio Code. By leveraging .NET’s “watch” mode, developers can instantly see the impact of their code changes without relaunching the emulator. Debugging support further enhances productivity, letting users set breakpoints and step through their programs in familiar territory.
Final Thoughts and Community Support
Tommy closes the video with a note for his audience. While his main focus remains hardware and retro repairs, he finds RetroC64 a fun way to revisit C64 programming. He encourages viewers to try this modern approach, and subscribe for more retro content. Whether you’re new to Commodore 64 coding or looking for a faster way to develop, RetroC64 with .NET and VS Code might be the toolkit that brings your ideas to life.
