Introduction to Commodore 64 Word Processors
The Commodore 64 was a versatile machine, and its word processors were no exception. Whether you were a student typing up a school report, a professional drafting a business letter, or a hobbyist creating a newsletter, there was a word processor for you. These programs ranged from basic text editors to advanced software with features like spell-checking, formatting, and even multilingual support. The diversity of options ensured that users could find a program that suited their needs, whether they were casual users or power users.
Popular Commodore 64 Word Processors
Easy Script
Developed by Precision Software, EasyScript was Commodore’s official word processor for the C64. Known for its simplicity and reliability, EasyScript allowed users to create and edit text with ease. It supported up to six pages of text in memory and featured advanced functions like search-and-replace, block operations, and printer controls.
Easy Script is a powerful and reliable software among Commodore 64 word processors, ideal for office use or frequent typists. While its price and lack of graphics support may deter some, its extensive features, ease of use, and excellent documentation make it a strong contender for anyone seeking a professional-grade word processor for the Commodore 64.
A patched version even enabled autobooting on the Commodore 128, integrating seamlessly with hardware like the Final Cartridge III. If the user has a Final Cartridge III, this version of Easy Script switches to the FCIII Desktop upon exit (using F1 + Run/Stop).
WordPro
The WordPro series word processors, created by Steve Punter, was one of the earliest and most comprehensive word processing suites for Commodore computers. Steve Punter, a computer enthusiast, developed the DCE Text Editor for the 8K PET computer. This early program included basic text editing and formatting features. The success of this program led to a partnership and the formation of a company to distribute his software. Starting with WordPro 1 for the 8K PET, the series evolved to include advanced features like global search-and-replace, automatic pagination, and multilingual support. The first commercially available version, WordPro 2, was designed for the 16K Commodore 2001. It introduced features like Append, Load, Merge, and Save, supporting up to 173 lines of text.
WordPro 3 Plus was adapted for the Commodore 64, retaining all its advanced features. WordPro 4 Plus ML (Multilingual): This version supported text entry in French, German, Spanish, Italian, and English, with special character generator ROMs for accurate display and printing. WordPro 4 Plus was particularly notable for its 80-column display and sophisticated formatting options, making it a favorite among business users.
The Write Stuff (BB Writer)
The Write Stuff, also known as BB Writer, was a feature-rich Commodore 64 word processor that stood out for its versatility. It offered advanced editing functions, macro support, and compatibility with both 40-column and 80-column displays. Distributed primarily through Commodore user groups, it became a cult favorite among enthusiasts.
Paperclip
Paperclip was another popular choice among the Commodore 64 word processors, especially for its user-friendly interface and robust editing tools. Available in multiple versions, including Paperclip III, it was praised for its ability to handle large documents and its efficient block-moving capabilities. However, its copy protection and disk-based nature sometimes posed challenges.
Other Notable Commodore 64 Word Processors
- SpeedScript: A lightweight word processor from Compute! magazine, ideal for quick tasks.
- SkiWriter II: A cartridge-based program with fast loading times but limited editing features.
- GeoWrite: A WYSIWYG word processor with advanced formatting and font support, part of the GEOS operating system.
- Interword: A true 80-column word processor, offering a modern editing experience, which its cartridge binary can be downloaded here: Interword C64 Word Processor Cartridge ROM Dump.
User Experiences and Preferences
Many users have fond memories of their first encounters with these word processors. For some, EasyScript was their introduction to digital text editing, while others swear by the advanced features of GeoWrite or the simplicity of SpeedScript. The recent patched version of EasyScript, which integrates with the Final Cartridge III, has brought new life to this classic program, allowing it to autoboot on the Commodore 128 and switch seamlessly to the FCIII Desktop upon exit.
Comparisons between programs often highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each. For example, Paperclip was praised for its full-featured editing tools, while SkiWriter II was criticized for its cumbersome file management. Despite these challenges, each program had its loyal following.
Printer Compatibility and Output Quality
The quality of a word processor’s output often depended on the printer it was paired with. Early Commodore printers like the 1525 and MPS-801 were limited in their capabilities, but later models like the Epson MPS-1000 and Star SG-10 offered improved print quality with features like NLQ (Near Letter Quality). Programs like GeoWrite and WordPro took full advantage of these advancements, producing professional-looking documents.
Special Features and Capabilities
GeoWrite
As part of the GEOS operating system, GeoWrite was a game-changer. It offered WYSIWYG editing, selectable fonts, and advanced formatting options, making it one of the most modern word processors for the C64.
Font Master II
For users who needed custom fonts, Font Master II provided the tools to create and use unique typefaces, though it was limited to specific font sizes.
Jasword and Interword
These programs pushed the boundaries of what was possible on the C64, offering 80-column support and advanced editing features that rivaled those of more expensive systems. Like its Amiga version, the Interword Word Processor for the Commodore 64 offers a nice desktop experience.
The modified version of the InterWord 2019 word processor beta, shared with permission from the programmer, is available here: InterWord 2019 Word Processor for The C64.
This file is intended to be written to a 16K EPROM for cartridge use. However, if you have an EasyFlash or 1541 Ultimate cartridge, you can convert it to a `.crt` file using the `cartconv` program and load it onto those cartridges.
In this version, I’ve fixed some bugs, added partial support for C128 2MHz mode, and included additional code for EasyFlash compatibility. There’s still more to come—for example, this version only works with a joystick for now. Planned additions include 1351 mouse support and shortcut keys to close dialog boxes.
Despite being a cartridge, the initial load is a bit slow because it accesses the disk to load settings.
You can test the `interword2019beta.bin` file in VICE by selecting the "Attach Plain 16K Cartridge Image" option.
Historical Context and Evolution
The evolution of word processors on the Commodore 64 reflects the broader trends in computing during the 1980s. Early programs like EasyScript and Magic Desk I were simple but effective, while later offerings like GeoWrite and WordPro 4 Plus introduced advanced features that catered to professional users. User groups played a crucial role in distributing software and fostering a sense of community among C64 enthusiasts.
Technical Considerations for the Commodore 64 Word Processors
The performance of these word processors was often influenced by hardware upgrades like REU (RAM Expansion Unit) and GeoRAM, which allowed for faster loading times and larger document sizes. Disk-based programs like Paperclip offered more features but required more setup, while cartridge-based programs like SkiWriter II were faster but less flexible. Some of the C64 word processors, such as modified (by İlker Fıçıcılar) versions of EasyScript, SpeedScript and InterWord, support turbo cartridges or 2MHz mode of the C128, but they are limited in other areas (SD card directory support, or RAM expansion support). In other words, there is still room for improvement here.
Commodore 64 Word Processors in Summary
The Commodore 64 word processing scene was driven by a passionate community of users and developers. Today, these programs are preserved through emulation and modern adaptations, allowing new generations to experience the charm of C64 word processing. User groups and online forums continue to celebrate the legacy of these programs, sharing tips, patches, and memories.
The Commodore 64 was more than just a gaming machine—it was a platform for creativity and productivity through variety of Commodore 64 word processors. Its word processors, from the humble EasyScript to the sophisticated GeoWrite, showcased the versatility of this iconic computer. Whether you’re a nostalgic user or a curious newcomer, exploring these programs is a journey through the history of personal computing. For those looking to dive in, EasyScript, The Write Stuff, and GeoWrite come highly recommended as the best word processors the C64 has to offer.
The legacy of these programs lives on, reminding us of a time when computing was as much about creativity as it was about technology.
