I'm very happy to announce a new type of product in development.
--- update ---
Now available to pre-order in Indiegogo
https://igg.me/at/breadbox
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I know there is too much info in here, so feel free to skip to the end, where the YouTube links are.
Breadbox is a simulator that aims to simulate a LOT of retro computers, not only Commodore brand. But when running a bigger project like this with limited resources you have to start with something small, don't ya? Our approach is to build the simulator model by model, starting with C64 and PET-2001.
When something new pops up, you often ask yourself a questions, like, for example - why would I need this?
Well, I'm no salesman and I don't try to sell anything, but I can give you insight, clarification and vision of the project, incase you find this interesting enough.
Here's some more information, in a form of FAQ
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"Why simulator?"
Well.. why not! It's fun to do it!
Also, there are no 'good' simulator - or no simulator at all about retro computers, are there?
Surely these wonderful machines deserve one!
"I already have a real C64, why would I need this?"
You are absolutely right, perhaps you don't need this. But there are also a lot of people that don't have a real C64 or it's broken, can't afford it, don't have the space for another retro computer, etc.
Lets also think in a larger scale, Do you have a PET-2001? or is there some other models you don't have? Would you like to try it and experience visually how it is used, how it works, play with it, code with it, hear it? How about all the other retro computer models ever existed? Would you fancy to have them in your collection and to be able to experience them in a highly detailed simulation?
"I'm happy with existing emulators, why would I need simulator?"
I'm quite happy with them also, and I'm happy for you too. It's likely that you don't need the simulator. Simulator is a different approach compared to emulator, if you prefer emulators or it provides functionalities you need/prefer, you should definitely use emulator. But if you like to use the 'emulated' computer in more natural way, you may want to give it a try.
"Stupid idea! Even building a single emulator to run reliably and accurately takes a huge amount of time and resources, it's impossible to build a fully working multi machine simulator having accuracy I want!"
Oh my .., you must be right, this is pointless!
.. no wait ..
What if the simulator can be divided into a backend and frontend? (hmm.. where have I heard these expressions before ?)
- Backend would be an existing high-end emulator
- And the frontend would be the simulation part
- Integrate the parts seamlessly and there you have it : BREADBOX is here!
Did you get it? well anyway, that is the formula what makes this feasible to do.
But well, there's a s*** load of work still to do
"What emulator(s) are integrated to BREADBOX"
Breadbox is using VICE to emulate running C64 and PET-2001.
"Where can I get the Breadbox?"
Sorry to disappoint, but it's not yet ready to be published. And it's too early to speculate dates, but maybe something comes out this year.
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Feel free to ask more questions, I may give answer to some
And we also appreciate any feedback that comes to your mind.
Here are the links to videos that present some features of Breadbox in its current state.
Breadbox - Teaser
https://youtu.be/qjK4tF2eJew
Breadbox - Press Play On Tape
https://youtu.be/GaC3H5KiL3U
About the videos.. there are still some obvious differences to real world (no cables, some leds not working right, bad 3D-models, no logos, etc). Like said, this is in development, the videos will only show the current state, not the finished product.
ps. Many thanks and HUGE respect to all people contributed to VICE!
