Tag: Commodore 64

  • 8BitDo Retro R8 Mouse: Commodore 64-Inspired Edition Released

    8BitDo Retro R8 Mouse: Commodore 64-Inspired Edition Released

    Key Takeaways

    1. The 8BitDo Retro R8 Mouse C64 Edition pays tribute to the Commodore 64 with a tan and dark brown design, matching the original computer’s aesthetic.
    2. It features four programmable buttons, a PAW 3395 sensor, and offers multiple connectivity options, including Bluetooth, wireless dongle, and wired mode.
    3. The mouse has a long battery life, lasting up to 100 hours in Bluetooth mode and 105 hours in 2.4G wireless mode, powered by a 450mAh battery.
    4. It is priced at $49.99, similar to previous editions inspired by Xbox and NES, and is available for immediate purchase.
    5. The mouse includes a charging dock with a color scheme and recognizable rainbow logo that matches the Commodore 64.

    The 8BitDo Retro R8 Mouse was first introduced in 2024 alongside the Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard Xbox Edition. Much like the keyboard, this wireless mouse features a transparent green design that draws inspiration from the original Xbox console. In April 2025, 8BitDo took things a step further by announcing a variant inspired by the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). Now, a third version of the mouse has been revealed, continuing the trend of classic design inspiration.

    A Nod to the Past

    The new model is officially called the 8BitDo Retro R8 Mouse C64 Edition, and its design pays tribute to the iconic 8-bit home computer, the Commodore 64. 8BitDo already offers a C64 edition of the Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard, which is available on Amazon for $89.99, making this new mouse a perfect match for fans of retro gaming.

    Design Details

    Similar to the original Commodore 64 and the Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard C64 edition, the mouse comes in a tan color. The scroll wheel, sides, and bottom of the mouse are dark brown, while the programmable buttons stand out in red. It also includes a charging dock that shares the same color scheme as the computer, featuring the recognizable rainbow logo on it.

    Specifications Remain Steady

    The specifications of the mouse haven’t changed much. It remains ambidextrous and can connect via Bluetooth, the included wireless dongle, or can be used in wired mode. It is equipped with a PAW 3395 sensor, four programmable buttons, an adjustable polling rate, and a 450mAh battery that promises up to 100 hours of usage in Bluetooth mode and up to 105 hours in 2.4G wireless mode. Notably, this model features Huano micro switches, while the Xbox and NES editions utilize Kailh Sword GM X micro switches.

    Currently, the Retro R8 Mouse C64 Edition is available for purchase, retailing at $49.99, just like the NES and Xbox versions. Unlike some of 8BitDo’s recent products that have long wait times after their announcement, the Retro R8 Mouse C64 Edition can be bought right now on the 8BitDo eShop and on Amazon.

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  • Stunning Sabre Wulf Commodore 64 Remaster by Genesis Project

    Stunning Sabre Wulf Commodore 64 Remaster by Genesis Project

    Key Takeaways

    1. Revamped Classic: A remake of the classic game Sabre Wulf is being developed for the Commodore 64 by the Genesis Project Team.

    2. Enhanced Pixel Art: The new pixel art features a higher resolution of 320×200 pixels and uses multi-color tilesets for a vibrant 256-screen jungle.

    3. Improved Gameplay: The game’s code has been rewritten for smoother character movement and to fix bugs, enhancing the overall gameplay experience.

    4. Modern Soundtrack and Cinematics: A new soundtrack by Marcin Majdzik accompanies updated loading screens and cinematics, maintaining the original game’s essence.

    5. Additional Upgrades: The remaster includes a “fog of war” map, a detailed user interface, and a wider variety of enemies, showcasing the Commodore 64’s true capabilities.

    If you’ve just got your hands on the new Commodore 64: Ultimate, then you’ll be happy to hear that modders are revamping classic games from other systems, like the ZX Spectrum. A highly anticipated remake of Sabre Wulf for the Commodore 64 is making progress thanks to the skilled Genesis Project Team.

    New Life in Pixel Art

    Jon Eggleton has carefully designed the new pixel art, breathing fresh life into the game’s expansive 256-screen jungle. He used a variety of multi-color tilesets and increased the resolution to 320×200 pixels, which is an upgrade from the original’s 256×176 resolution.

    Smooth Gameplay and Music Enhancements

    Robert Troughton took on the task of rewriting the game’s code to ensure the characters move fluidly on-screen, aligning with the improved refresh rate. He also removed various bugs present in the original, including some annoying screen-transition issues. The soundtrack is crafted by Marcin Majdzik and comes with new loading screens and cinematics, adding a modern touch while keeping the game’s original essence intact.

    Enhanced Visuals and Features

    This remaster stands out from the original Commodore 64 version by unlocking the system’s true capability. The first C64 port borrowed visuals from the ZX Spectrum but had a less vibrant color palette. The remastered Sabre Wulf addresses this, presenting bright and lively graphics.

    Additional upgrades include a new “fog of war” map, a more detailed user interface, and a greater variety of enemies to encounter.

    Originally launched in 1984 by British developer Ultimate Play the Game, Sabre Wulf was available on multiple platforms such as the Commodore 64, ZX Spectrum, BBC Micro, and Amstrad CPC. Back then, it became a cult classic where players took on the role of Sabreman, navigating a colorful jungle maze to retrieve treasures stolen by the blue Wolf.

    The most recent preview shows that the Commodore 64 remaster of Sabre Wulf is almost done. However, the team has yet to provide a specific release date. If you can’t wait to play Sabre Wulf Remastered, you can download version 0.5 right now.

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