Emulators

VICE Emulator

The Versatile Commodore Emulator

VICE is the definitive Commodore computer emulator, accurately recreating the C64, VIC-20, C128, and other Commodore machines across all major platforms.

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Overview

VICE (Versatile Commodore Emulator) began in 1993 and remains the gold standard for Commodore emulation. It recreates the C64, VIC-20, C128, Plus/4, PET, and CBM-II with cycle-accurate precision. Essential for game preservation, homebrew development, and nostalgic play, VICE runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, and more.

Fast facts

  • First release: 1993.
  • License: Open source (GPL).
  • Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, more.
  • Machines: C64, VIC-20, C128, Plus/4, PET, CBM-II.

Emulated systems

Machine Emulator name
Commodore 64 x64, x64sc
VIC-20 xvic
Commodore 128 x128
Plus/4 xplus4
PET xpet
CBM-II xcbm2

x64 vs x64sc

Version Focus
x64 Performance, compatibility
x64sc Cycle-exact accuracy

Features

Feature Capability
Disk support D64, G64, D71, D81
Tape support T64, TAP
Cartridge support CRT, various formats
Save states Snapshot any moment
Debug tools Monitor, memory viewer

Development features

For programmers:

  • Built-in machine monitor
  • Breakpoint support
  • Memory inspection
  • Trace logging
  • Label file support

Accuracy achievements

VICE passes:

  • Most demo scene requirements
  • Cycle-exact timing tests
  • VIC-II register behaviour
  • SID chip reproduction

Historical importance

VICE enabled:

  • Game preservation
  • Software archaeology
  • New development
  • Education and research

Community role

Use case Value
Homebrew testing Faster than hardware
Speed runs Save states, timing
Preservation Access without hardware
Research Deep inspection
Tool Purpose
c1541 Disk image manipulation
petcat BASIC file conversion
cartconv Cartridge conversion

Alternatives

Emulator Strength
Hoxs64 Cycle accuracy
CCS64 Compatibility
Frodo Lightweight

VICE remains most actively developed.

See also