SIDKick Pico is a DIY replacement for the Commodore 64 or 128’s SID sound chip, with firmware that can launch Commodore PRG files from a custom menu. Hackaday reported in June 2024 that the menu can hold up to 16 games; that is a reported maximum, not a promise that a newly built unit arrives with games preloaded. The device is a sound-chip replacement, not a standalone game console.
What “built-in games” means on SIDKick Pico
The games are PRG files launched by a built-in firmware launcher. The project’s release history documents the launcher, while Hackaday reported a capacity of up to 16 games in a custom menu. The sources do not establish that every build includes a standard set of games, so plan to supply the files you want to use.
That distinction matters: SIDKick Pico’s primary role is to replace a SID 6581 or 8580 in a compatible system. The launcher is an additional firmware feature, not evidence that the hardware is a general-purpose cartridge or a self-contained game system.
What hardware the project replaces
The official project describes SIDKick Pico as a drop-in replacement for SID 6581/8580 chips, with documented use in C64 and C128 computers as well as Ultimate64 and C64 Ultimate boards. It offers multiple board formats: a compact board with components on-board and an interface-board arrangement that hosts a Raspberry Pi Pico, Pico 2, or compatible clone. In the latter arrangement, the Pico is a component of the build, not the SIDKick Pico device itself. See the official SIDKick Pico project and setup documentation for supported systems and board details.
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Choose the correct board, firmware and audio output
SIDKick Pico is not a single universal board-and-firmware combination. The official release page lists version 0.224 and multiple firmware variants for different system targets, board revisions, audio outputs and LED setups. Confirm the exact board revision and configuration, then use its matching release asset and setup instructions rather than selecting firmware by name alone. The SIDKick Pico firmware releases provide the available variants.
Audio output is another build-specific choice. The project documents PWM output through the SID socket and DAC-equipped configurations for direct stereo audio. Hackaday describes an external PCM5102A DAC route and an alternate board design with an on-board DAC and TL072 op-amp. These are options associated with particular build designs, not interchangeable accessories for every revision. Check the wiring and output guidance for your board before choosing components; the project documentation and Hackaday’s June 11, 2024 report describe the alternatives.
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- USB external sound card.
- USB interface, plug and play, instead of traditional sound card (computer sound card is broken, can be a direct replacement).
- Analog audio signals can be output to directly drive headphones or powered speakers.
- Bare board manner, visible material, compact and easy to carry.
- No drivers in WIN2000, WINXP, WIN2003 system.
Installation: socket fit, extra signals and Ultimate boards
For a standard single-SID setup, the project says operation can work without additional signal wires. Installation still depends on fitting the correct board and orienting it properly in the SID socket. Do not assume the wiring for a basic C64 installation applies to every mode or host.
- Dual-SID or FM operation: additional signal connections are required because those signals are not available at the SID socket.
- Ultimate64 or C64 Ultimate: follow the project’s separate addressing, signal-wiring and configuration instructions; these hosts need more than the standard socket-replacement assumptions.
- Any build: match the firmware to the board revision and selected audio/LED setup before powering on.
The official setup documentation is the reference for orientation, extra connections and host-specific configuration.
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How it compares with other Commodore projects
Other projects may also emulate SID hardware or run games, but they occupy different roles. Compare them by installation point, supported chip behavior, audio options, expansion features and whether they include a PRG launcher.
| Project | What it is | How it differs from SIDKick Pico |
|---|---|---|
| SIDKick Pico | DIY SID replacement for supported C64/C128 systems and compatible Ultimate boards. | Includes a firmware PRG launcher; Hackaday reported up to 16 games in a custom menu. Board, wiring and audio options depend on the build. |
| FPGASID | FPGA-based, pin-compatible replacement project for MOS6581 and MOS8580 chips. | It is a distinct SID replacement. The cited project description does not establish that it includes SIDKick Pico’s PRG launcher. See the FPGASID project. |
| Sidekick64 | Software-defined cartridge/expansion for several Commodore computers, with cartridge, memory and sound-device emulation. | It attaches as an expansion rather than replacing the SID in its socket. Its repository mentions two games with the C16/+4 version, a different feature and platform context. See the Sidekick64 repository. |
For a practical comparison, check whether a device replaces the SID or attaches externally; supports the SID behaviors you need; offers the desired mono, stereo or DAC output; supports paddles/mouse, dual-SID or FM; and requires additional wiring. Also distinguish a DIY board or assembly route from a ready-to-use unit: the available project information establishes an open DIY project, not current retail stock for a finished device.
Getting a board and planning a DIY build
Hackaday reported that bare or pre-assembled boards can be ordered through PCBWay or another manufacturer. That describes a fabrication route, not confirmed current stock or a retail listing for a complete SIDKick Pico. If choosing an interface-board build, a Raspberry Pi Pico or Pico 2 (or compatible clone) may be a required component, but check the selected revision’s documented compatibility before buying parts.
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