The Whisper64 text editor by Marcin Spoczynski delivers a surprisingly modern editing experience on the classic Commodore 64. Designed for both BASIC programmers and general text editing, it combines smart features with the familiar feel of an 8-bit environment.
In BASIC mode, the Whisper64 text editor highlights keywords in color and automatically renumbers lines, keeping GOTO and GOSUB references updated. This makes script organization far easier than traditional typing on a C64. The 37×23 editing area includes line numbers, color-coded syntax, and a status bar that clearly displays filename, cursor position, and mode.
File management is handled through a built-in directory browser supporting drives 8 through 15, showing file types, sizes, and locked indicators. Loading and saving become effortless, with visual feedback that feels surprisingly advanced for an 8-bit machine.
Beyond text handling, Whisper64 introduces several powerful editing tools. Users can search and replace text across files, mark and copy multiple lines, and paste them elsewhere. Undo and redo add another level of convenience, while “Goto Line” allows quick navigation within large files.
Perhaps the most interesting feature is experimental mouse support for the Commodore 1351. With a simple key command, users can enable mouse mode, move a yellow cursor, and click to position the text pointer—an impressive fusion of vintage and modern control.
Whisper64’s open design makes it free to use and modify, encouraging experimentation among C64 enthusiasts. Whether coding BASIC, editing text, or exploring 8-bit innovation, this utility pushes what’s possible on the Commodore 64.
