C64 Forever vs Hoxs64

C64 Forever is a Windows package for preserving and emulating Commodore 8-bit software. It emulates C64 hardware and systems including PET, VIC-20, C16, Plus/4 and C128, with legal CBM system ROMs. A built-in catalog holds configuration data for more than 5,000 titles and receives online updates through the RetroPlatform Library. The package includes more than 200 games and demoscene productions with permission from their creators. RP9 combines a title into a single file for one-click playback, and the title editor can create or modify self-contained RP9 packages. Input options include USB and Xbox controllers, X-Arcade, I-PAC, customizable keyboard layouts, touchscreen gestures and an onscreen keyboard. The feature list also names clipboard, Windows File Explorer and Search integration. The free Express Edition is feature-limited. The downloadable Plus Edition costs 19.95 USD once and adds features including saved states, simultaneous playback windows and image building. Listed requirements include Windows 11, 10, 8, 7 or Vista, or equivalent Windows Server editions, on x86 or x64 systems.

Hoxs64 is a free Commodore 64 emulator for Microsoft Windows, written by David Horrocks. Its documentation describes cycle-exact emulation and pixel-exact VIC emulation of a C64C, without emulating the grey dot bug. A simulated 1541 floppy drive supports reading and writing, while the tape player is read-only. The emulator handles D64, G64, P64, FDI, TAP, PRG, P00, T64, and CRT files, and includes state saving, a debugger, full-screen mode, and configurable keyboard and joystick controls. Cartridge support covers Action Reply, Easy Flash, Ocean, Magic Desk, and Commodore REU 1750 options in 512K or 16MB configurations. Multiple cartridges are unsupported, and mounting one disables the REU option. Listed downloads are 32-bit and 64-bit version 1.1.2.9. Requirements include Windows 10 or 11, DirectX 11.1, the Microsoft Visual C++ 2022 runtime, 4 GB RAM, and a DirectX 11 graphics card with pixel shader 4.0. Installation requires the runtime and copying ZIP contents into one directory.