Developer Tommy Olsen introduces the VICE Snapshot Converter, a clever utility that connects emulation and real Commodore 64 hardware. The program converts VICE emulator snapshots into self-restoring PRG files that run directly on a real C64. No cartridge or special loader is required.
The VICE Snapshot Converter reads a VICE snapshot file (.vsf) and rebuilds the complete system state. When the new PRG runs, it restores CPU registers, memory, SID sound, VIC-II graphics, CIA timers, color RAM, and zero page exactly as before. This feature lets users continue from the exact moment a snapshot was taken, but on real hardware instead of an emulator.
Inspired by the Action Replay cartridge’s backup feature, the tool brings that same flexibility to modern setups. It uses LZSA1 compression for quick decompression on the 6502 CPU, allowing fast loading times and smooth playback. Smart memory handling helps locate free space automatically, keeping resource use low and performance high.
Users can pick between a graphical interface or a command-line version. The GUI provides an easy way to handle snapshots visually, while the CLI works well for batch conversions. Tommy offers builds for every major platform. Windows users can install it with an MSI or run a portable ZIP. Linux users get precompiled tar.gz archives for Ubuntu, Debian, and similar distributions. macOS users can test early binaries that are still in development.
With the VICE Snapshot Converter, emulator sessions can live again on genuine hardware. It turns saved emulator states into executable programs ready to run on a real Commodore 64, making it easier to share and preserve your work.
Learn more and download the latest release from the project’s GitHub page.
