omiq

omiq / cbm-basic

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Commodore BASIC-inspired Interpreter written in C

retrogamecoders.com basic c64 cbm commodore commodore-pet
19
3
100% credibility
Found Mar 13, 2026 at 15 stars -- GitGems finds repos before they trend. Get early access to the next one.
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AI Analysis
C
AI Summary

A Commodore BASIC v2-style interpreter that runs line-numbered BASIC programs from text files on modern computers, emulating classic terminal output with colors and cursor controls.

How It Works

1
🔍 Discover retro BASIC joy

You find this project while searching for ways to run old Commodore computer programs on your modern laptop.

2
📥 Download the ready program

Grab the simple executable file made just for your computer type from the download releases.

3
✅ Allow it to run safely

If your computer shows a warning about new downloads, right-click to open and approve it once – now it's ready without issues.

4
✏️ Create a simple program

Type easy commands like 10 PRINT 'HELLO WORLD!' into a text file and save it with a .bas ending.

5
▶️ Start your creation

Open the program with your text file to begin running it right in your command window.

6
🖥️ See the retro magic

Watch colorful text, moving cursors, and classic output appear just like on old machines.

🎉 Relive the fun forever

Now enjoy writing and running endless vintage programs with authentic looks and feels.

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Star Growth

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AI-Generated Review

What is cbm-basic?

Cbm-basic is a Commodore BASIC v2 interpreter written in C that runs classic CBM BASIC v2 commands and programs on modern desktops. Load a line-numbered .bas file via CLI—like `./basic -petscii hello.bas`—and it executes PRINT, INPUT, GOTO, FOR/NEXT, and more, with output to your terminal. It solves the itch for running Commodore 64 BASIC listings without firing up an emulator, adding ANSI terminal support for colors, cursor positioning via LOCATE or TEXTAT, and PETSCII token shortcuts like `{RED}` in strings.

Why is it gaining traction?

It stands out with modern conveniences on top of authentic CBM BASIC 2.0 syntax: synthetic line numbers for label-based flow without old-school numbering, SLEEP for pauses, and direct ANSI mapping for C64 screen controls like CLR or RVS. Cross-platform binaries for Win/Mac/Linux drop right in, no setup hassle, and the PETSCII-to-ANSI palette options make retro games or demos look crisp in any terminal. Developers dig the no-POKE memory hacks—just pure, portable BASIC scripting.

Who should use this?

Retro computing fans porting Commodore BASIC github listings to run locally, educators demoing CBM BASIC v2 commands in classrooms, or embedded devs needing a tiny C interpreter for simple automation scripts. Hobbyists building text adventures or calculators will love the string functions and loops without bloat.

Verdict

Grab it if you're into commodore 64 emulator github alternatives—solid docs and easy Makefile builds make it approachable, but with just 10 stars and 1.0% credibility score, it's early-stage; test thoroughly before production use. Promising for lightweight CBM fun.

(178 words)

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