Retro Gaming Innovation: Transferring C64 Games via YouTube
Retro gaming enthusiasts Rod Hull from TFW8b and Dave Curran from Tynemouth Software have unveiled a method to download C64 games directly onto an original Commodore 64 while watching a stream on YouTube. This technique is reminiscent of the innovative 1980s method, where viewers could transmit application code to their computers through a flashing light during TV broadcasts.
How Jelly Load Works
By using a series of flashing lights in a video, Hull and Curran have managed to send binary data - zeroes and ones - that can be interpreted by vintage computers like the Commodore 64. A set of photo-resistors connected to the serial port of these machines can read this data, turning it into an executable program.
The creators aimed for a fast yet feasible solution within normal YouTube video duration (5-10 minutes) without causing significant performance degradation. They managed to transmit a 3.5kB game called Snake Pit entirely through a YouTube video, showcasing the potential of their method.
The Challenge and Limitations
While this technique offers a unique experience for retro gaming enthusiasts, it is far from practical or efficient due to its slow speed compared to modern downloading methods. However, it highlights creativity in utilizing old technologies and could inspire further innovation in retro gaming.
What are your thoughts on this approach? Do you think there is potential for improvements or do you see significant drawbacks that hinder its practical use?
Exactly what I was thinking!
My friends and I used to have a 2D shoot 'm up on our DSs with a level builder; you could transfer a level using sound & mic in a similar process!
At first it was just cool that this existed, it quickly became a very convenient way to transfer levels even if transferring SD cards with the level on it was possible.