C64 Forever is a Windows package for preserving and emulating Commodore 8-bit software. It emulates C64 hardware and other systems, including PET, VIC-20, C16, Plus/4, and C128, with legal CBM system ROMs. Its built-in catalog contains configuration data for more than 5,000 titles and receives online updates through the RetroPlatform Library. More than 200 games and demoscene productions are included with creator permission. The RP9 format packages titles in single files for one-click playback, and a title editor can create or modify those packages. Input options include USB and Xbox controllers, X-Arcade, I-PAC, customizable keyboard layouts, touchscreen gestures, and an onscreen keyboard. The feature-limited Free Express Edition costs nothing. A downloadable Plus Edition costs $19.95 USD once and adds features including saved states, simultaneous playback windows, and image building. Other Plus options include a downloadable upgrade for $9.95 USD once, a boxed edition for $39.95 USD once, and a boxed upgrade for $24.95 USD once; upgrade editions require a previous Plus license key. Listed requirements include Windows 7 through 11 or equivalent Windows Server editions, on x86 or x64 systems.
Who it is for
It suits Windows users who want to preserve or play Commodore 8-bit titles and use a built-in library of configurations. The free edition is feature-limited; fuller functionality is available through Plus editions.
What is good
- Emulates C64 and additional CBM 8-bit systems.
- Catalog has configuration data for over 5,000 titles.
- Includes over 200 games and demoscene productions.
- RP9 packages support one-click playback.
What to know first
- Available only for Windows.
- The free edition is feature-limited.
- Plus upgrade editions require an earlier Plus license key.
Verdict
C64 Forever combines multi-system emulation, a large title catalog, and bundled productions in a Windows package. The free edition is limited, while the downloadable Plus Edition is $19.95 USD once.
C64 Forever plans and pricing
All plansCompared on Commodore 64 emulators
- Free plan
- Yes
- Paid from
- 19.95 one-time
- Supported platforms
- Windows
- Disk and tape formats
- RP9, D64, T64, C64 and other disk, tape and cartridge formats
- Emulated C64 variants
- C64, PET 2001, CBM 3032, CBM 4032, CBM 8032, VIC-20, CBM 610, C16, Plus/4, C128
- Bundled software library
- Yes