The Meatloaf 64 is back—and Commodore 64 enthusiasts have reason to celebrate. This all-in-one enhancement device, available now on Masteries’ Tindie store, supercharges your C64 with modern functionality, all without altering its vintage charm. Combining SD card loading, floppy disk emulation, and WiFi networking in one compact package, the Meatloaf 64 opens new doors for retro computing fans.
Whether you’re revisiting classic software or dialing into Telnet BBSes, the Meatloaf 64 makes it all easier. It’s versatile, reliable, and purpose-built for the modern retro enthusiast. Here are the standout features that make this device a must-have:
1. Virtual Floppy Drive Emulation
Gone are the days of unreliable disks and loud drives. The Meatloaf 64 emulates up to 26 virtual drives via the IEC serial port, supporting device IDs 4 through 30. It loads disk images from internal flash memory, a microSD card, or even through WiFi—making your C64 feel like it just graduated into the 21st century.
2. Seamless SD Card Loading
Insert your microSD card into the top of the device and access your entire software library in seconds. It’s plug-and-play with zero hassle. The Meatloaf 64 includes JiffyDOS and Epyx Fastloader compatibility, so transfers are quick and painless.
3. Built-In WiFi Connectivity
Meatloaf doesn’t just load software—it brings your Commodore 64 online. Connect to Telnet BBSes, browse public software repositories, or stream disk images directly from HTTP sources. Think of it as an old-school modem that’s been taking steroids (and has much better manners).
4. Fujinet Device Compatibility
Originally inspired by the Fujinet platform, the Meatloaf 64 supports additional virtual devices beyond just disk drives. IDs 16–19 are designated for Fujinet networking, and IDs 4–7 support virtual printers and plotters. Even ID 30 has its own special purpose as the system controller.
5. Professional Build Quality
Unlike many DIY retro peripherals, this version of the Meatloaf 64 ships in a professionally modified plastic case—not 3D printed. It’s durable, polished, and fits perfectly beside your vintage machine. The package includes a USB-C power/data cable, so it’s ready to go out of the box (just add your own microSD card).
6. Firmware That Grows with You
Firmware updates are easy thanks to compatibility with the Fujinet Flasher tool, available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. The development community actively maintains and improves functionality—so your Meatloaf 64 only gets better with time.
7. Active Online Resources
New to Meatloaf? No problem. There’s a detailed user guide on GitHub, plus demonstration videos showing you how to load software, connect to BBSes, and maximize the Meatloaf 64’s full potential.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a nostalgic gamer, a BBS veteran, or a preservationist, the Meatloaf 64 is a perfect all-in-one tool for modernizing your Commodore 64 experience. It’s more than a peripheral—it’s a portal back into the golden age of computing, upgraded for today’s connected world.
