PODCAST · technology
The 8 Bit Files
by John Biehler and Dave Zille
If you love 8 bit computers, video games and their history, you'll love The 8 Bit Files, a podcast hosted by John and Dave, two retro computing enthusiasts who share their passion and knowledge with you every week. In each episode, they explore a different topic related to 8 bit computers, such as hardware, software, games, programming, culture, and more. Whether you're a veteran 8 bit enthusiast or a newcomer who wants to learn more about this fascinating era of computing, you'll find something to enjoy. Subscribe today and join John and Dave on their 8 bit adventures!
Episodes
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037 - Commodore & MiSTer Updates, and John's Japan Experience
In this episode, Dave leads off on the revived Commodore: the C64C Ultimate and the story of the original 1986 injection molds, and the brand-new "Made For U(ltimate)" software initiative. The block closes on the Callback flip phone, its wildly unstable pricing, and Dave's argument that nobody...
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036 - Triforce, Virtual Boy & AI Coding an 8-Bit Game
In this episode, John and Dave cover a mix of retro gaming hardware, emulation history, and hands-on tinkering with old and new tech. They start by discussing Nintendo’s new Virtual Boy accessory for the Nintendo Switch, reflecting on the strange legacy of the original system and what it’s like…
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035 - Retro-friendly homelabs with ZimaOS
In this episode, John and Dave talk about discovering ZimaOS and building an affordable home lab using repurposed hardware - and how that single setup quickly expands into media streaming, network-wide ad blocking, ROM organization, browser-based retro gaming, backups, and local services. Along…
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034 - Commodore 64 Ultimate, C64 Mini Black edition & more
In this episode, Dave dives into the newly announced Commodore 64 Ultimate - a modern, FPGA-powered revival of the classic C64 - and compares it to his previously acquired Ultimate 64 Elite II board. He breaks down the different editions, pricing tiers, and what makes this official reboot stand…
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033 - Ultimate 64 Elite-II, Switch 2
In this episode, Dave finally unboxes the long-awaited Ultimate 64 Elite II - an FPGA-based modern C64 replacement - and shares why it might be the last 64 he ever needs. John dives into his surprising change of heart on the Nintendo Switch 2, covering game upgrades, new features, and how it...
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032 - Nintendo Wii
In this episode, the guys talk about the Nintendo Wii, diving deep into what made it a game-changer for both hardcore and casual players. They also discuss the upcoming Switch 2, but it's more of a sidebar to their Wii nostalgia. John recalls lining up for the Wii on launch day and how hard it…
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031 - Sega Dreamcast & more
In this episode, John and Dave look back at the Sega Dreamcast, sharing memories of the console that was ahead of its time but gone too soon. The Dreamcast had zero copy protection - John and Dave traded burned game CDs "like baseball cards" Their gaming favorites included Crazy Taxi (with its...
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030 - Atari VCS hands on, 8BitDo GameCube Bluetooth Mod & more
In this episode of 8-Bit Files, Dave and John dive deep into the Atari VCS, exploring this modern retro system after John snagged one during Black Friday sales. From its stock gaming experience to transforming it into a versatile mini PC with Windows 11, Ubuntu, and Batocera, they break down...
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029 - The Spectrum hands-on, Atari VCS, AI coding & more
In this episode, the guys talk about their first impressions hands-on with The Spectrum, John mentions the new 8BitDo XBOX inspired keyboard and his recent order of the Atari VCS, and Dave talks about his adventures in AI coding, this time trying to re-create a favourite 20-year old PSP game....
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028 - Sega Genesis/MegaDrive, Anbernic RG35XXSP & more
In this episode, the guys talk about their personal experiences with the Sega Genesis (aka Sega MegaDrive). John talks about his experience with the Anbernic RG35XXSP Folding Handheld and Dave discusses his recent SNES pickup. Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/TrwKu8272X
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027 - MiSTER Pi & Discord announcement
In this episode, the guys talk about John's experience with the MiSTER Pi, the new fully compatible MiSTer FPGA solution. And Dave talks about his fun time building the Atari 2600 lego set, and his new video capture setup. And we are now on DISCORD! * Join us: https://discord.com/invite/CZBSpHWr
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026 - The Spectrum, MiSTER Pi and AI C64 coding
In this episode, the guys talk about their excitement for the newly announced "The Spectrum" ZX Spectrum remake from Retro games, and all things Spectrum related. John also talks about the MiSTER Pi and his excitement about joining the MiSTer community. And Dave talks about his experiences using…
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025 - Atari ST computers
In this episode, the guys talk about their memories of the Atari ST line of computers. Dave also reviews his experience with the 8BitDo Commodore 64 inspired keyboard, and John mentions an update on emulating the ST on the Atari Gamestation Pro.
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024 - 8-Bit Computer Magazines, Boatfest recap and more
In this episode, the guys talk about memories of old computer magazines, Dave talks about Boatfest, and a lot more.
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023 - Mattel Intellivision, Vectrex light pen, Boatfest & more
In this episode, the guys talk about the iconic Intellivision gaming console, including games, peripherals and their personal memories. They also talk about a cool light pen project for the Vectrex, MiSTer clone boards, and about the upcoming Boatfest retro computing event in Hurrican West...
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022 - Delta Emulator for iOS, Famicom & more
In this episode, the guys talk about the Delta retro emulator for iOS, which allows emulation of retro gaming on iPhones and iPads. They also talk about Dave's recent acquisition of an original Famicom, and more.
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021 - Atari 400 mini
In this episode, the guys talk about John's hands on experience with the new Atari 400 mini console. They also talk about a bluetooth controller solution for your 8 bit game console and an awesome new C64 themed mechanical keyboard. Episode notes: Atari 400 mini -first thoughts DB9-BT dongle...
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020 - All about the Joysticks
In this episode, Dave and John talk all about their love and experiences with Joysticks, from retro to modern. They also talk about Dave's new Ultimate II+ cartridge, and the MovieCart for the Atari 2600.
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019 - Hands on the 2600+, GSP firmware & more
In this episode, the guys cover a variety of topics - hands on with the Atari 2600 plus, exciting updates to the Atari GameStation Pro firmware, and they talk about old catalog (Sears, etc) retro memories.
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018 - Atari Gamestation Pro & THE400 Mini
In this episode, John and Dave talk about their experiences with the Atari Gamestation Pro and then discuss the recently announced THE400 Mini console.
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016 - Commodore VIC-20 Computers
In this episode of "The 8-Bit Files," hosts John and Dave talk all about their experiences and memories of the iconic Commodore VIC 20 8-bit computer. The guys also talk about memories of the original XBOX console.
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017 - 8 Bit Holiday Memories
In this episode, the guys talk about their childhood and current-day 8 bit holiday memories and traditions. The guys also cover a range of topics, including their 2023 retro holiday plans.
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015 - Steam Deck handheld game console
In this episode, John and Dave talk all about the ins and outs of the Steam Deck handheld gaming console, including how it works as a great way to emulate retro games and other consoles. The guys also talk about the Commodore PET and some cool new PETSCII based games for the PET computer, and…
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014 - Miyoo Mini Plus handheld game console
In this episode, John and Dave talk all about one of John's favorite new handheld gaming devices, the Miyoo Mini Plus. The guys talk about the Onion OS, and the various emulators supported on the device, and general experience playing retro games using the Miyoo Mini Plus. The guys also talk…
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013 - Nintendo Entertainment System (NES)
In this episode, John and Dave talk all about the iconic Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). They discuss their personal memories of the NES, hardware peripherals, games and more. The guys also talk about their recent auction retro finds.
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012 - MiSTer FPGA
In this episode of the 8 Bit Files, the guys talk about the MiSTer FPGA and how it can be used to emulate err.. We mean simulate retro computers, game consoles and a lot more. The guys talk about the MiSTer’s features, how it compares to real hardware, and more. John and Dave also talk about...
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011 - Atari's new 2600+ gaming console
In this episode of "The 8-Bit Files," hosts John and Dave talk all about the recently announced Atari 2600+ game console. The Atari 2600+ is an updated version of the iconic Atari 2600, which has been enhanced with HDMI output, a widescreen mode and more. The guys debate the pros and cons of the...
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010 - Handheld gaming devices
In this episode, the guys delve deep into the world of handheld emulation gaming devices. They discuss tips about which handheld devices to choose, which to avoid, and more. They talk about the Odroid, Bittboy, and Anbernic devices among others. The guys also talk about emulation on the Steamdeck.
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009 - BASIC Programming
In this episode of "The 8-Bit Files" John and Dave talk all about their experience using BASIC programming on their 8 bit computers like the C64 and Atari 800XL. The guys share stories about how they learned BASIC programming and some of the projects they worked on. They also discuss modern...
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008 - Commodore 64 Computers
In this episode of "The 8-Bit Files" John and Dave talk all about the iconic Commodore 64 Computer. The guys talk about the C64's timeline and history, different models, hardware, peripherals, modern hardware addons, popular games, and personal memories and more. They also talk about John's...
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007 - Atari 8-bit Computers
In this episode of "The 8-Bit Files," hosts John and Dave delve into the world of Atari 8-bit computers. John shares his personal experiences of owning and discovering these computers. The guys discuss the Atari 400, 800, 600XL, 800XL, and other models, exploring their features and compatibility....
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006 - Atari VCS/2600
In this episode, John and Dave talk about the Atari VCS/2600, the iconic console that launched the video game industry in the late 1970s. Whether you grew up playing Atari or you're just curious about its history and legacy, this episode will take you on a nostalgic trip down memory lane. The…
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005 - Multicarts & SD storage solutions
In this episode, John and Dave talk about Multicarts & SD based storage solutions for 8 bit computers and gaming consoles. These devices let you load hundreds of games from a single memory card and play them on your original hardware. Some of them even support advanced features like flash...
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004 - Vectrex
In this episode, John and Dave talk about one of the most unique and innovative 8 bit gaming consoles of all time - the Vectrex. The Vectrex was a cool video game console that came out in the early 80s. It had a built-in screen that used vector graphics, which looked different from other games at...
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003 - Emulation vs Original Hardware
In this episode, John and Dave talk about the use of emulation vs original hardware when it comes to retro gaming and computing. Emulation is the process of running old games on modern devices, such as computers or smartphones. Original hardware is the actual console or computer that the game was...
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002 - Bulletin Board Systems (BBS)
In this episode, John and Dave talk about Bulletin Board Systems (BBS). A BBS is a form of computer network which was popular in the 80s and early 80s, where users can connect and share messages, files, games and other content. BBS systems were often run from 8-bit computers and were typically...
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001 - John and Dave's origin stories
In this episode, John and Dave talk about how they got started in 8 bit computers and gaming. John talks about his love for the Atari 800XL, the Vectrex and other machines. Dave talks about his admiration of the Commodore 64 and how he almost got a VIC20 instead. The guys talk about BBSes…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
If you love 8 bit computers, video games and their history, you'll love The 8 Bit Files, a podcast hosted by John and Dave, two retro computing enthusiasts who share their passion and knowledge with you every week. In each episode, they explore a different topic related to 8 bit computers, such as hardware, software, games, programming, culture, and more. Whether you're a veteran 8 bit enthusiast or a newcomer who wants to learn more about this fascinating era of computing, you'll find something to enjoy. Subscribe today and join John and Dave on their 8 bit adventures!
HOSTED BY
John Biehler and Dave Zille
CATEGORIES
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does The 8 Bit Files have?
The 8 Bit Files currently has 37 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is The 8 Bit Files about?
If you love 8 bit computers, video games and their history, you'll love The 8 Bit Files, a podcast hosted by John and Dave, two retro computing enthusiasts who share their passion and knowledge with you every week. In each episode, they explore a different topic related to 8 bit computers, such as...
How often does The 8 Bit Files release new episodes?
The 8 Bit Files has 37 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to The 8 Bit Files?
You can listen to The 8 Bit Files on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts The 8 Bit Files?
The 8 Bit Files is created and hosted by John Biehler and Dave Zille.
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