In a new episode of 8-Bit Show and Tell, developer Aleksi Eeben has introduced what is likely a world-first: transforming the Commodore 64’s Datassette cassette drive into a haptic-enabled game controller for his latest title, Aquarius.
Host Robin demonstrates the game’s smooth-scrolling shooting action using this unconventional controller, examines the haptic feedback system, and discusses Aquarius’s upcoming release at the Zoo Party demo in Finland in early November 2024. Robin then delves into the game’s impressive SID soundtrack and explores the physical cassette release, which includes a unique “spelling mistake” edition and a pre-cracked and trained version.
Finally, Robin offers a closer look at the 6510 assembly language code that enables the Datassette’s haptic capabilities, showcasing how it functions as a game controller. Aquarius is available as a free download, with a limited-edition physical release also offered for purchase.
