SideKick64 by Frenetic for the C64, C128, C16/+4, and VIC20

Sidekick64 is an extremely versatile software-defined cartridge/expansion for the C64, C128, C16/+4, and VC20. It uses a Raspberry Pi 3A+ to provide memory expansions, sound expansions (up to 8 SIDs, SFX Sound Expander, MIDI), Freezer cartridges, cartridges such as Easyflash/GMOD, kernel extensions, C128 function ROMs, and much more.

Some features can be combined, such as kernel replacement plus Freezer or the GeoRAM extension. Sidekick64 supports PRG, D64, SID, MOD, YM, and WAV files and also integrates tools such as Disk2EasyFlash and PSID64.

Adapters are available as an option for connecting the Sidekick64 to a Commodore 16 or +4.

The cartridge is, of course, licensed by Frenetic, and he receives a portion of the proceeds.

Overview of Features

Memory expansion

• GeoRAM/NeoRAM-compatible memory expansion

Freezer Cartridges

• Action Replay 4.x–7.x
• Final Cartridge 3(+)
• KCS Power Cartridge
• Super Snapshot V5
• Freeze Frame and Freeze Machine
• Atomic/Nordic Power (experimental; works at best)

Numerous (bank-switching) cartridges, including:

• Standard CBM80, C16/+4, and C128 cartridges
• Easyflash (with simplified EAPI support)
• GMod2 (includes EEPROM for save files)
• MagicDesk/Domark/HES Australia
• Ocean Type A and B (up to 512k)
• DinamicC64 Game System
• Funplay/Powerplay
• Comal80
• Epyx Fastload
• Warp Speed (C64 and C128)
• Megabit ROM (C128)
• (Super) Zaxxon
• Prophet64
• Simons’ BASIC
• RGCD and Hucky Cartridges

Additional Features

• C64 Kernal Replacement
• Function ROMs on a C128
• Multiple SIDs and Sound Expander/FM emulation (up to 8 SIDs, e.g., to play “The Tuneful 8”)
• Simplified Datel and Sequential MIDI interface emulation with a built-in SoundFont synthesizer (slightly modified version of TinySoundFont)
• TED Sound and Digiblaster Emulation for C16/+4 (so that all sound devices run through a single output)

Important Note for C64/C128

If you want to use kernel replacement and SID emulation, you must connect two pins on the left side of the Sidekick64:

• Pin 28 for the MOS 6510/8500 on the C64, or pin 29 for the 8502 on the C128
• Pin 8 of the SID

You will need the included cables for this.

The Sound Expander and MIDI emulation functions work even without this SID-CS cable.

Included in the package:

• Sidekick64 Module
• 1.3-inch OLED color display (240×240 pixels)
• C64 Kernal/SID Emulation Cable

Available as an option:

• Case (highly recommended!)
• Raspberry Pi 3a+
• SD card
• VC20 Adapter, C16/+4 (currently out of stock)

Software

You can find the necessary software—which is copied to the Raspberry Pi’s microSD card—as well as additional information here: