simple-emu-c64
github.com
What it is
simple-emu-c64 is a text-console emulator for Commodore systems and MOS6502/6510 processors. It supports the Commodore 64, 128, PET 2001, VIC-20, Commodore 16, and Plus/4, and runs text-based Commodore BASIC, 6502 assembly, and machine-code programs. Memory options reflect the different systems, including C64 RAM, ROM, I/O, and character-set banking, plus banking or configuration for the Plus/4, C128, and VIC-20. Input and output are through a keyboard and console; there is no graphics, sound, or sprite support. The emulator also omits cartridges and peripherals such as joysticks, cassette, IEC, and serial devices. D64 disk images are read-only, and PET file loading and saving are not implemented. It runs in a Windows console or in Mac and Linux terminals, and a Windows console binary is available. Building from source requires .NET 7.0 and system-specific Commodore ROMs. The software is free, and its source code is provided under a revised MIT license.
Spec sheet
- Purpose
- It is a text console emulator for Commodore computers and 6502 processors.Read 7 Oct 2026 · github.com
- License
- The source code is provided under a revised MIT license that grants permission to use, copy, modify, distribute, and sell copies, subject to its stated conditions.Read 7 Oct 2026 · github.com
- Download
- The latest listed release is a Windows console binary and says ROMs are included in its folder structure.Read 7 Oct 2026 · github.com
- File handling
- Loading and saving files are not implemented for PET; the README also lists no other media or peripheral support such as cassette, IEC, or serial port.Read 7 Oct 2026 · github.com
- File limitations
- Loading and saving files are not implemented for PET, and the README lists no undocumented opcodes or Z80 support.Read 7 Oct 2026 · github.com
- I/O limitations
- It provides keyboard and console I/O only and has no graphics, sound, sprites, or peripheral emulation such as joystick, cassette, and serial port support.Read 7 Oct 2026 · github.com
- Install requirements
- Building requires .NET 7.0 and ROMs in system-specific subdirectories; the README gives Visual Studio and command-line build instructions.Read 7 Oct 2026 · github.com
- Intended audience
- The maker describes it as an option for people who like console windows or command lines and are interested in 6502 and BASIC.Read 7 Oct 2026 · techwithdave.davevw.com
- Limitations
- It provides keyboard and console I/O only, with no graphics, sound, sprites, cartridges, or joystick support.Read 7 Oct 2026 · github.com
- Maker support
- The maker invites users to submit pull requests for generally useful changes or fork their own version.Read 7 Oct 2026 · techwithdave.davevw.com
- Memory features
- The README says C64 RAM, ROM, I/O, and charset banking is implemented, and C128 MMU banking provides two 64K memory banks.Read 7 Oct 2026 · github.com
- Operating systems
- The source is C# and runs as a Windows console program or in Mac and Linux terminals.Read 7 Oct 2026 · github.com
- Processor emulation
- It emulates MOS6502/6510 series processors as appropriate.Read 7 Oct 2026 · github.com
- Processor support
- It emulates MOS6502/6510 series processors as appropriate.Read 7 Oct 2026 · github.com
- Programs
- It supports text-based Commodore BASIC and 6502 assembly or machine-code programs.Read 7 Oct 2026 · github.com
- Requirements
- Building requires .NET 7.0 and Commodore ROMs placed in machine-specific subdirectories.Read 7 Oct 2026 · github.com
- ROM source
- The README instructs users to copy ROMs from VICE, a distribution, or a similar source.Read 7 Oct 2026 · github.com
- Supported systems
- It supports Commodore 64, 128, PET 2001, VIC-20, Commodore 16, and Plus/4 systems.Read 7 Oct 2026 · github.com
- Testing
- The README describes the emulator as lightly tested and says bugs may remain.Read 7 Oct 2026 · github.com
- Usage
- The project runs in a Windows console program or a Mac/Linux terminal, and the source is C#.Read 7 Oct 2026 · github.com
Strong points and limits
Strong points
- Supports six Commodore systems.
- Runs BASIC, assembly, and machine-code programs.
- Includes system-specific memory banking options.
- Free, with a Windows binary available.
- Reads D64 disk images.
Limits
- No graphics, sound, or sprites.
- No cartridge or peripheral emulation.
- D64 support is read-only.
- PET file loading and saving are absent.
Who it suits
It suits people interested in 6502 programming or Commodore BASIC who prefer a console or terminal. It is not suited to users who need graphics, sound, or peripheral emulation.
Verdict
simple-emu-c64 focuses on text-based Commodore and 6502 work through a console. Its system coverage and memory options are useful, but its lack of graphics and peripherals defines a narrow scope.
Where Specifiction places it
- Commodore 64 Emulators#20 of 317.1