When it comes to operating systems, it seems like there’s no life beyond Windows, macOS, or a famous Linux distro like Ubuntu or Linux Mint. However, far from reality, we can find a large number of very peculiar alternative operating systems. If you’ve been using it for a few years, today we bring you a Linux-based operating system that’s sure to stir up many memories: Commodore OS Vision.
Commodore OS Vision (originally created as Commodore USA) is a Linux-based operating system created to emulate the aesthetics and functionality of classic Commodore systems, but adapted to the modern era. The original project (Commodore USA) folded in 2013, leaving the project as lost. Fortunately, shortly after, a group of enthusiasts, along with My Retro Computer Ltd., revived the project, allowing users to continue receiving updates and improvements.
This operating system is based on an unofficial reimplementation of MX Linux. A MATE desktop has been configured on top of it, reminiscent of the beloved GNOEM 2. Compiz (with Emerald) has also been included as a window manager, allowing for all sorts of advanced visual effects to make the experience much more attractive.
The bootloader we found is systemd. The only drawback is that it’s only available for x64 architectures, so it can’t be installed or used on very old computers with 32-bit processors.
In addition to all of the above, this system relies on a dpkg package manager, along with the APT system, known for being the standard for Debian-based distros and allowing for very simple software installation and updating.
Commodore OS Vision 3.0: what’s new
The new Commodore OS 3.0 is the largest update released to date for this system, especially since the birth of the new era’s V1.0. This update is primarily focused on gaming, being a distro specifically designed for retro gamers who previously owned a computer of this brand.
Proof of this is that this version stands out, among other things, for bringing by default a total of 200 free Commodore games and demos that we can play on this Linux.
Under the hood, we find an MX Linux 23 “Libretto” system, which comes with version 6.1.133 of the Linux kernel.
But it’s not all about the technical details. Beyond the system’s hardware, there are several notable features, such as the presence of Commodore OS BASIC V1, a modern implementation of the BASIC language that allows for 3D graphics, sprites, tiles, and advanced 2D and 3D physics. It also offers a ROM configuration manager and emulation, along with a host of visual customization options (such as themes and animated backgrounds) that evoke the classic Commodore aesthetic.
Download and install
This operating system is completely free for all users. We can find it on its website, both as a direct download and as a torrent. However, we must keep in mind that the download is 36 GB in total. Everything is included, so we don’t have to download anything else during startup.
We can install this system from scratch on any computer or run it within a virtual machine. Its developers provide instructions for both methods, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your needs.
An excellent alternative to Windows to give a second life to an old PC at home. Although, honestly, it doesn’t make much sense on a modern PC (hence the idea of running it in a virtual machine).
