GimliDS
GimliDS: A focused, free C64 emulator for Nintendo DS and DSi hardware. Ranked #24 of 31 in Commodore 64 Emulators by our editors (6.2/10); pricing: Free plan; best for nintendo DS and DSi retro handheld users.
At a glance
- Editor score6.2 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forNintendo DS and DSi retro handheld users
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Supported platformsNintendo DS, Nintendo DSi, Nintendo DSi XL, Nintendo DSi LL
- Facts checked21 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Emulates the 6510 CPU, VIC-II graphics and SID sound
- Supports D64 disks, CRT cartridges, PRG programs and two 1541 drives
- Includes touch keyboard, control mapping, save states and REU support
Where it doesn't
- Requires original Commodore BIOS files
- Supports only Nintendo DS-family handhelds
- Optional TrueDrive emulation may require additional configuration
Our verdict on GimliDS
GimliDS is a free, open-source Commodore 64 emulator for Nintendo DS, Nintendo DSi, Nintendo DSi XL and Nintendo DSi LL handhelds. It is intended for users who want to run Commodore 64 software on Nintendo DS-family hardware, with support for the original Commodore 64 rather than a broader range of systems. The emulator requires original Commodore BIOS files and is distributed under the original Frodo emulator license.
Its emulation feature set covers the 6510 CPU, VIC-II graphics and SID sound, along with PAL 50Hz emulation. GimliDS supports D64 disk images for two 1541 drives, CRT cartridge images with EasyFlash and GMOD2 writeback, and PRG program images. REU-1764 emulation provides 256K of expanded memory, while optional TrueDrive emulation adds another configuration choice for disk behavior. A virtual touch-screen C64 keyboard, configurable keyboard and joystick mapping, and save-and-load states make the handheld controls central to the experience.
The main decision point is platform fit. GimliDS is a strong choice for Nintendo DS and DSi retro handheld users who specifically want Commodore 64 emulation, removable-media support and save states in one focused package. Its open-source model and free availability suit users who prefer software distributed without a paid tier. It is less suitable for anyone seeking a desktop or mobile-phone emulator, since its supported platforms are Nintendo DS, Nintendo DSi, Nintendo DSi XL and Nintendo DSi LL. Choose it for DS-family hardware and avoid it when broader platform coverage is the priority.
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GimliDS pricing
GimliDS fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Supported platforms | Nintendo DS, Nintendo DSi, Nintendo DSi XL, Nintendo DSi LL |
| Disk and tape formats | D64 disk images; CRT cartridge images; PRG program images |
| Built-in debugger | Not verified |
| Netplay support | Not verified |
| Emulated C64 variants | Commodore 64 |
| Bundled software library | Not verified |
| Built for | Solo (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | github.com |
| Facts checked | 21 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to GimliDS
- VICEFree, open-source C64 emulation with cycle accuracy, debugging, media support and network play.9.4
- Breadbin466A free, open-source C64 emulator built for accurate hardware behavior and debugging.9.0
- C64 ForeverA Windows-focused C64 package with bundled titles, broad emulation, and preservation tools.8.8
See all GimliDS alternatives →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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