Pronounced "Hondani Shell"
HDN Shell transforms your Commodore 64 by replacing the standard BASIC ROM ($A000-$BFFF) with a powerful, modern command line interface. When you power on your C64, HDN Shell launches instead of the classic BASIC interpreter, bringing Linux-inspired features and productivity to your retro computer.
- Simplified commands: Replace
LOAD "*",8,1withLSorDIR. - Fast file management: Switch drives (
#9), copy files (cp from to), and more. - SD2IEC support: Use device #14 (with Ultimate), including directory navigation.
- Linux-inspired command line: Familiar syntax and power.
- Command history: Recall and reuse previous commands.
- Screen scrollback: Review output (requires REU).
- Integrated memory monitor: Inspect and debug memory easily.
- HDN Cloud integration: Connect for extended features (requires Ultimate/1541 Ultimate with networking).
- Open source: All code, including cloud server, is available.
- Privacy-first: Run HDN Cloud locally or use the free public server.
- Searchable manual pages: Find help fast.
- AI chat: Get assistance and answers.
- Python expression execution: Run Python code directly.
- Memory efficiency: Keeps all C64 memory free for your programs.
REU required for scrollback. Ultimate/1541 Ultimate with networking required for cloud features.
- C64 hardware is legendary; Ultimate makes it even better.
- Today, C64 can be a serious computer for creative projects, learning, and fun.
- Command line = power. HDN Shell brings that power to your C64.
- Focus on productivity, not just nostalgia.
- HDN Shell frees all C64 memory for your programs.
- BASIC is mostly used for loading programs—HDN Shell does it faster and easier.
- Want BASIC? Just plug in a cartridge.
- Fast program injection means less waiting, more doing.
- Cloud services and networking make your C64 feel modern.
- Discover all the features HDN Shell brings to your C64!
- Multiple command line sessions (virtual consoles) — switch like Linux (C=+1, C=+2, ...)
- Copy/paste on screen (maybe between cloud and C64!)
- Write programs in the cloud, use them on your C64
- Prglets: relocatable small resident programs
- SID/MOD background music playback
- Simple file editor (speedscript)
- Replace Ultimate web app with a more integrated, powerful cloud solution
See the Installation Guide for step-by-step instructions to set up HDN Shell on your C64 and PC.
- Type
HELPin the command line for a list of available commands. - Get help on any topic:
HELP <command>orHELP <your question> - Or, read the User Manual.
This project is free to use and modify for educational and personal purposes.
Created by Honza with support from the Hondani gang.
Built with KickAssembler for the Commodore 64.
Want a quick overview of HDN Shell's benefits, motivation, and how to get started? Check out this 4-minute video:
Click the thumbnail above or watch here