Bubble Bobble C64 Remastered is a fan-made enhancement of the beloved Commodore 64 version of Taito’s legendary arcade game. Created by Davide Bottino and his team, this remaster bridges the gap between nostalgic charm and modern visual fidelity, offering a fresh experience while staying true to the original’s spirit.
A Childhood Spark
Davide Bottino’s journey with Bubble Bobble began at age 11, when he first encountered a bootleg cassette titled Bolle Bolle. The vibrant colors, quirky characters, and catchy music instantly captivated him. Years later, discovering the arcade version was a revelation—it was faster, more dynamic, and packed with subtle mechanics that responded to player behavior. This contrast inspired Bottino to revisit the C64 version and elevate it to match the arcade’s brilliance.
The Original C64 Version (1987)
Developed by Software Creations and published by Firebird, the original C64 port was a technical marvel for its time. It successfully captured the essence of the arcade game, offering 100 levels of bubble-popping action, co-op gameplay, and memorable music by Peter Clarke. However, limitations in graphics, speed, and gameplay mechanics meant that it couldn’t fully replicate the arcade experience. Despite these constraints, it remains one of the most iconic titles on the platform.
Gallery of the original:
Why a Remaster?
While the original C64 version holds a special place in retro gaming history, Bottino saw room for improvement. The goal was not to rewrite the game, but to enhance it—preserving its core while refining its visuals and mechanics. The remaster aims to make the game shine on both CRT and modern screens, offering a more faithful representation of the arcade original.
Key Enhancements
The remastered version features completely redesigned sprites for Bub, Bob, enemies, and even the final boss—each redrawn pixel by pixel based on the arcade game. Most levels have been reimagined, while others received color and detail upgrades. Bonus items are more vibrant, and some have been replaced with fresh alternatives. The iconic “Pon” sound returns when popping bubbles, and the font now mirrors the original arcade style.
Additional improvements include:
- Accurate item drops (yes, peaches and grapes!)
- Unique graphics for secret and teleport doors
- Fixes for visual inconsistencies (e.g., potion effects, diamond colors)
- A new continue system that allows players to resume after Game Over
- A fan-made intro screen and a fresh rendition of the arcade theme
The Team Behind the Magic
- Graphics & Coordination: Davide Bottino
- Hacking & Tools: Victor Widell
- Intro Screen: Simon Marson
- Intro Music: Aldo Chiummo
- Intro Code: Antonio Savona
This passionate team worked with precision and care to honor the legacy of Bubble Bobble while giving it a modern twist.
A Respectful Tribute
Bubble Bobble C64 Remastered is an unofficial, non-commercial project created out of love for the original game. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by Taito. The remaster celebrates the cultural impact of Bubble Bobble and offers fans—old and new—a chance to experience it in a refreshed, visually stunning form.
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Original article by c64universe.com
