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The Commodore 64, launched in 1982 by Commodore International, stands as a titan in home computing history. Boasting 64 KB of RAM, the VIC-II graphics chip, and the revolutionary SID sound chip, it delivered impressive multimedia capabilities for its time. The system ran Commodore BASIC V2 from ROM, with no traditional OS but a simple command-line interface. Users could immediately begin programming, loading software via cartridges, cassette tapes, or 5.25-inch floppy disks.
Beyond its hardware, the C64's legacy is defined by its massive library of games, educational software, and productivity tools. Classics like The Last Ninja, Maniac Mansion, and Impossible Mission helped build a strong gaming culture around the machine. It also fostered an active demoscene and hobbyist programming community that continues even today.
Its affordability, TV compatibility, and sheer versatility made it a favorite worldwide, selling over 17 million units. While limited by today’s standards, the Commodore 64 remains a symbol of creativity, innovation, and accessible computing. It is a cornerstone of retro computing and a nostalgic gem for millions of users around the world.
