Every now and then the scene needs a small spark that doesn’t require a big production pipeline, a year-long toolchain debate, or a “we’ll release when it’s perfect” promise. So here’s a simple idea we’re throwing into the wild: a 48-hour demo challenge designed for maximum creativity and minimum excuses.
The rules are intentionally lightweight. Pick a single theme (we’ll propose one below), gather a tiny crew (or go solo), and build something that runs on real C64 hardware (or at least targets it honestly). It can be an intro, a one-part, a music disk fragment, a wild PETSCII experiment, or a “fake demo” that still pushes style and pacing. The point is not to win a trophy. The point is to ship, learn, and inspire.
Suggested theme:“Ice & Fire”
Interpret it however you want: contrasting palettes, duality in music, a story arc, a technical trick that flips the mood, or a literal elemental battle. If you hate the theme, replace it with your own and still do the challenge. The challenge is the product.
Why this matters: constraints are a cheat code. The C64 thrives on constraints. When you limit time and scope, you stop polishing and start inventing. You try a new routine you’ve been avoiding. You write a track in a style you’ve never dared. You discover that a “small” effect becomes iconic when it’s framed with confidence and good timing.
If you want to join, do it your way:
- Solo mode: one person, one machine, one deadline.
- Duo mode: code + music, or code + gfx, or any combo.
- Remix mode: take an old unfinished part and finally give it a proper ending.
Post your result, a short write-up, and (if possible) a capture. Tag it as a challenge entry so others can find it. We’ll happily collect links and showcase a selection in a follow-up post. No gatekeeping, no perfectionism, just releases.
Because the best scene fuel is still the same as in 1990: momentum.
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