Greetings, fellow retro gaming enthusiasts! 

Today, I'm excited to take you behind the scenes of creating a nostalgic Commodore 64 game: Diamond Dave. If you've ever dreamed of coding your own Commodore 64 game, then buckle up, because I'm about to share the essential tools and steps needed to embark on this thrilling journey.

A First Idea and Imagination

Every great game starts with a spark of inspiration. For me, it was the timeless classic Boulder Dash. With its upcoming 40th anniversary, I felt inspired to create a fan game that captured the essence of navigating caves, collecting diamonds, and dodging obstacles. Let your imagination run wild as you envision your game's world and mechanics.

Pen and Paper

Grab your trusty pen and paper because it's time to bring your ideas to life. Sketch out scenes, characters, and level designs in as much detail as possible. Graph paper works wonders for plotting out sprites and maps, helping you visualize your game's layout.

Time

Patience is key when it comes to game development. Take the time to brainstorm, plan, and refine your ideas before diving into coding. Rushing through the process can lead to headaches down the line, so embrace the journey and savor every moment.

Commodore 64 or Emulator 

While nothing beats the authentic experience of coding on a Commodore 64, a TheC64 Maxi or emulators like VICE or Denise offer a convenient alternative. Don't forget to hook up a compatible monitor or old TV to see your code in action.

Storage Device

Whether you opt for a tape drive, floppy drive, or modern solution like the SD2IEC, having a reliable storage device is essential for saving your progress and testing your game. You won't need this of course if you use an emulator or a TheC64 Maxi.

Joystick 

Testing your game requires a trusty joystick. You can find used ones that may work for a while, or invest in a new ArcadeR joystick for a more reliable experience. On an emulator or a TheC64 Maxi you can use almost any USB game pad or joystick you want.

Commodore 64 Sketch and Design 

Commodore 64 Sketch and Design: A workbook for designing sprites, custom characters, and screens on the C64: While not mandatory, this book is a valuable resource for sprite design, level mapping, and sound/music documentation. It's a handy companion for bringing your game to life.

As you gather your tools and prepare to embark on your coding adventure, remember to take your time and enjoy the process. Stay tuned for future updates, where I'll delve deeper into the development of Diamond Dave, sharing insights, challenges, and maybe even a few surprises along the way.

Until then, happy coding, and may your pixels be ever vibrant!

fNX