Info about Hacknet:

Official game description:
AVAILABLE NOW: HACKNET - LABYRINTHS EXPANSION
=============================================
Join a small team of elite hackers pulling off a complex series of data heists in Hacknet Labyrinths, a major expansion for critically acclaimed terminal-based hacking simulator, Hacknet.  
Adding a new 3-4 hour chapter to the game, Hacknet Labyrinths sees you recruited by the mysterious Kaguya to join a small team of elite hackers on the hunt for powerful new tools and programs.
Hacknet Extensions Mod Tools
============================
**Hacknet Extensions**, a free suite of mod tools for Hacknet and Hacknet Labyrinths is now available.  
You can access Hacknet Extensions via the main menu and use it to create Hacknet campaigns, system networks, nodes, themes, music and story missions. Share your creations with other players through Steam Workshop.  
An interactive tutorial has been included in Extensions. This will step you through the process of creating a mod.  
There is an extensive guide in the Steam Community hub, and you can connect, collaborate and discuss with other modders in the Hacknet Extensions Discord, linked on the side of the page.
About the Game
==============
Hacknet is an immersive, terminal-based hacking simulator for PC. Dive down a rabbit hoIe as you follow the instructions of a recently deceased hacker, whose death may not have been the accident the media reports. Using old school command prompts and real hacking processes, you’ll solve the mystery with minimal hand-holding and a rich world full of secrets to explore.  
Bit, a hacker responsible for creating the most invasive security system on the planet, is dead. When he fails to reconnect to his system for 14 days, his failsafe kicks in, sending instructions in automated emails to a lone user. As that user, it’s up to you to unravel the mystery and ensure that Hacknet-OS doesn't fall into the wrong hands.  
Exploring the volatile nature of personal privacy, the prevalence of corporate greed, and the hidden powers of hackers on the internet, Hacknet delivers a true hacking simulation, while offering a support system that allows total beginners get a grasp of the real-world applications and commands found throughout the game.
Features
--------
**Real Hacking**  
Based on actual UNIX commands, Hacknet focuses on real hacking, not the Hollywood-style version of it. This creates a truly immersive experience and puts players right in the thick of trying to break through the firewalls.  
**Unlock the mystery of Bit**  
A hacker is dead and the media reports don’t add up. When you are contacted by his “ghost” - an automated failsafe system - you’re drawn into the dark and murky world of underground hackers.  
**Full immersion**  
You are thrust into a persistent virtual world with no “levels” or obvious game elements to break the illusion. Follow the guidance of the emails from Bit or just dive down the rabbit hole, chasing down clues and snippets of information you find as you explore different systems.  
**Accessible but uncompromising**  
Whilst not holding your hand or dumbing down, the design of the game and the learning curve enables those with no prior terminal experience to enjoy it whilst delighting those in the know.  
**Killer tunes**  
Hack to the beat of a soundtrack featuring underground artists including Carpenter Brut (Hotline Miami) and Remi Gallego (AKA The Algorithm).  
Soundtrack produced in association with The Otherworld Agency.  
**Hack your own adventures**  
Create your own campaigns, system networks, nodes, themes, music and story missions using the Hacknet Extensions mod tools. Share them with other players through Steam Workshop.

Release date: Aug 12, 2015

Categories: Hacking Gameplay, Terminal-based Gameplay, Puzzle Solving, Narrative Adventure, Educational Simulation, Cybersecurity, Command Line Interface

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 10; verdict: Positive; summary: The reviews indicate that users find the game and its DLC to be worth the money, suggesting a positive perception of the game's value for money.
- Wiki: score 10; verdict: Needs Improvement; summary: The user feedback highlights several key issues with the game. Poor guidance and localization are significant concerns, with users finding the in-game instructions either too abrupt or insufficient, and the translation quality lacking. Technical issues, such as a black screen on startup, and a dependency on external forums for problem-solving are also noted. The gameplay experience is described as a mix of handholding and exploratory detective work, which some users appreciate for its realism, while others find it confusing and lacking in direction.
- Proton/Linux: score 10; verdict: Works Well; summary: The game is generally well-received on Linux, with users reporting a smooth and crash-free experience. The educational value of learning basic Linux commands is highlighted, and the game is found to be engaging and fun. While some users note that the Linux experience is simplified, it does not significantly detract from the overall positive experience.
- Steam Deck: score 50; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: The game Hacknet offers an educational and immersive experience, particularly for those interested in learning basic Linux commands and cybersecurity concepts. However, there are notable issues with text size and display, compatibility across different operating systems, and the authenticity of Linux commands. These issues impact the user experience significantly, especially for visually impaired users and those familiar with real Linux environments.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $2.00 - $15.00
  - Reasoning: The evidence shows that users find the game worth the money, especially when purchased on sale. Many users mention that the game is worth buying at a discounted price, but also indicate that they would happily pay the full price, suggesting that the full price is considered reasonable. The general sentiment is that the game provides good value for money, particularly when bought at a sale price.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 10.0h
  - Story completion: 6.0h
  - Session length: N/A
  - Endgame: 15.0h
  - Reasoning: The evidence provides direct statements about the playtime required for different aspects of the game. The first quote suggests that completing the game twice and achieving everything takes around 20 hours, indicating a game completion time of approximately 10 hours. The second quote explicitly states that completing the full singleplayer/story mode took 10 hours. The third quote mentions that the game takes about 6 hours to complete, which aligns with the story completion time. The fourth quote indicates that the duration is about 15 hours, which can extend further if all achievements and DLC are completed, supporting the endgame playtime.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: The game has a steep initial learning curve and repetitive early missions, but it becomes more enjoyable once players get past the tutorial and initial learning phase.
  - Stance: Fun then drops
  - Anchor: Completing the tutorial and initial learning phase
  - Time to anchor: 1h 0m
  - Friction: Steep learning curve for unfamiliar players; Repetitive early missions
  - Unlock drivers: Completing the tutorial; Understanding basic commands and mechanics
  - Conditions: Familiarity with command-line interfaces; Patience to get through initial repetitive missions
- Player Archetypes:
  - Programming Enthusiast (buy)
    - Motivation: Learning and applying programming/hacking skills.
    - Playstyle: Engages with the game's educational aspects, enjoys the challenge of using real programming commands.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: beginner; educated computer scientist
    - Reference games: TIS-100; EXAPUNKS
  - Narrative Explorer (buy)
    - Motivation: Enjoying a compelling narrative and immersive atmosphere.
    - Playstyle: Focuses on the story and atmospheric elements, enjoys the progression of missions.
    - Experience: newcomer
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: story lover; atmosphere enthusiast
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Completionist (sale)
    - Motivation: Achieving all possible goals and completing the game.
    - Playstyle: Replays the game to achieve more, enjoys additional content and challenges.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: achievement hunter; completionist
    - Reference games: TIS-100


Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category.
Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews.
What players like:
- Authentic hacking experience (weight 0.67): The game provides an immersive and realistic hacking experience, making players feel like real hackers. It includes technical aspects of hacking and is praised for its authenticity.
- Engaging story and puzzles (weight 0.61): The game features an excellent and engaging story along with fun and challenging puzzles. The narrative is compelling and beautifully written, adding depth to the gameplay.
- Immersive and fun gameplay (weight 0.54): The game offers an immersive and enjoyable experience, with intuitive and engaging gameplay. It is described as very fun and entertaining, providing a realistic and immersive atmosphere.
- Educational value in computing (weight 0.53): The game teaches real-world skills related to computing, including Linux commands, network security, and basic CMD commands. It is suitable for both beginners and professionals interested in network security.
- High-quality game overall (weight 0.24): The game is described as a great and fantastic game with good quality. It is considered one of the best games and offers a fantastic overall experience.
- Awesome soundtrack (weight 0.17): The game has an amazing soundtrack with great tracks and sound effects. The audio is praised as very good and awesome, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
- Accessible and easy to learn (weight 0.17): The game is simple and accessible, making it easy for beginners to learn and enjoy. It has an easy-to-follow structure and satisfying controls.
- Challenging and rewarding (weight 0.17): The game offers a fun and challenging experience, providing a reasonable yet rewarding challenge. It is good for people who want a challenge and can be both relaxing and stressful.
- Balanced difficulty curve (weight 0.14): The game features a good difficulty curve with a smooth learning progression. The difficulty level is balanced, making it enjoyable for players of different skill levels.
- Valuable DLC content (weight 0.14): The game's DLC offers deep analysis and usage of all device content. The DLC is praised as great and worth buying, adding significant value to the game.

Common complaints:
- Repetitive gameplay mechanics (weight 0.59): Many players find the gameplay to be repetitive and monotonous, with tasks and commands often feeling tedious and routine over time.
- Bugs and crashes (weight 0.34): The game experiences various bugs and crashes, particularly on Mac devices, which can significantly disrupt the gaming experience.
- Steep learning curve (weight 0.27): The game has a high learning curve, especially for those not familiar with programming or terminal commands, making it difficult for beginners.
- Poor Russian translation (weight 0.15): The Russian translation in the game is inconsistent and contains many errors, leading to a poor experience for Russian-speaking players.
- Confusing and unclear tasks (weight 0.15): Some tasks in the game are not obvious and can be confusing, leading to unintended outcomes and frustration.
- Limited command line features (weight 0.15): The game's command line features are limited and need enhancement, particularly for Linux commands.
- Tutorial difficulties (weight 0.1): The tutorial is considered too difficult by many players, with some unable to get past it, suggesting it could be improved.
- File management issues (weight 0.09): There are issues with file management, such as the inability to delete folders with contents immediately and slow file deletion.
- Feels like work (weight 0.07): The game can feel too much like work, which can make it a slog to play for extended periods.
- Command inconsistencies (weight 0.07): Commands in the game do not always work as described, leading to inconsistencies in command usage.
- Short campaign (weight 0.07): The campaign is considered short by many players, leaving them wanting more content.
- Fear of command usage (weight 0.07): Players express fear of using certain commands like 'rm -rf', which can lead to unintended consequences and game-breaking issues.
- Spanish translation issues (weight 0.07): The Spanish translation contains spelling mistakes and some messages need to be written in English despite the translation.
- Mouse issues (weight 0.06): There are issues with mouse clicks and the mouse disappearing, which can hinder gameplay.
- Teacher monitoring issues (weight 0.06): Teachers may monitor or shut down the computer, causing loss of game progress.
- Lack of difficulty levels (weight 0.06): The game lacks difficulty levels and a level/mission editor, limiting customization and replayability.
- Not for everyone (weight 0.05): The game may not appeal to everyone and is not to the taste of some reviewers.

Gameplay feedback:
- Uses real-world Unix commands (weight 0.72): Players use real-world Unix commands and tools, providing an authentic experience with commands like 'login', 'ls', 'cd', and 'scp'. This includes basic SSH usage and Linux command operations.
- Realistic hacker simulation mechanics (weight 0.6): The game features a detailed hacker simulation with mechanics that allow players to engage in various hacking activities such as DDOS attacks, firewall manipulation, and port hacking. It uses a Linux-kernel OS to simulate realistic hacking scenarios.
- Educational cybersecurity content (weight 0.24): The game offers educational value related to cybersecurity, programming, and network processes. It teaches players about IPs, ports, folder structure, and Unix commands.
- Terminal-based gameplay loop (weight 0.21): The core gameplay loop involves typing terminal commands, making it a text-based adventure game. Players interact with the game primarily through a command line interface.
- Puzzle-solving mechanics (weight 0.21): The game incorporates unique puzzle mechanics that require players to solve various puzzles. These puzzles are integral to the gameplay and add an interesting challenge.
- Network navigation and exploration (weight 0.13): The game involves navigating and exploring networks, requiring players to understand and traverse UNIX systems.
- File searching and management (weight 0.13): Players engage in file searching, management, and manipulation, exploring systems full of text files. This adds a layer of depth to the gameplay.
- Problem-solving and detective elements (weight 0.11): Gameplay involves problem-solving and detective-like exploration of networks, requiring players to piece together information and solve puzzles.
- Quest and achievement system (weight 0.11): The game features a quest system with side quests and achievements, providing additional goals and challenges for players.
- Variety of tasks and humor (weight 0.11): Players encounter a variety of tasks that are often accompanied by humor, making the gameplay more enjoyable and diverse.
- Diverse mission structures (weight 0.11): The game offers a variety of missions with a linear structure, providing diverse objectives and challenges.
- Immersive and unusual gameplay (weight 0.11): The game offers an immersive and unusual gameplay experience, including multiplayer elements that stand out from typical games.
- Password cracking mechanics (weight 0.1): The game includes mechanics for cracking passwords, using tools like SSHCrack to add an additional layer of challenge.
- Requires quick and accurate typing (weight 0.1): Success in the game often depends on the player's ability to type accurately and quickly, adding a layer of skill-based challenge.

Performance notes:
- Crashes on Mac (weight 0.2): The game crashes frequently on Mac, especially on MacBook with M1 chip and MacOS with M chips.
- Game Hangs and Unresponsiveness (weight 0.14): The game frequently hangs and becomes unresponsive, causing frustration among players.
- Hardware Compatibility (weight 0.13): The game has issues with Intel GPU support and software rendering, but it is playable on old hardware.
- Display and Resolution Issues (weight 0.11): Players report various issues related to resolution and full-screen mode, including black screens.
- Frequent Bugs and Serious Issues (weight 0.08): The game has numerous bugs, some of which are very serious and affect gameplay significantly.
- Save Corruption (weight 0.04): Players report issues with save corruption, leading to loss of progress.
- Launching Issues (weight 0.04): The game does not launch properly for some players.
- Window Management Issues (weight 0.04): There are problems with minimizing and resizing the game window.
- Low System Requirements (weight 0.04): The game can run on systems with very low specifications, such as a 'complete potato'.
- Consistent Performance on Windows (weight 0.04): The game's performance is consistent with its performance on Windows.
- Stream Placement Problems (weight 0.04): Players encounter issues with stream placement.
- Mouse Issues (weight 0.04): There are reports of issues related to mouse functionality.
- RAM Requirements (weight 0.04): Players have concerns about the game's RAM requirements.
- Update Process (weight 0.04): There are issues reported with the game's update process.

Recommendations:
- Highly recommended purchase (weight 0.3): Many reviews strongly recommend buying the game, especially for those who enjoy programming. The DLC is also highly recommended.
- Recommended for cybersecurity enthusiasts (weight 0.2): The game is highly recommended for anyone interested in cybersecurity, hacking, and ethical hacking. It is also suggested for those who are beginners in network security.
- Recommended for tech and music lovers (weight 0.14): The game is recommended for those interested in techy stuff, cool synth music, and using a command line interface. It is also suggested for fans of the hacking genre.
- Buy on sale (weight 0.11): Several reviews suggest that the game is worth buying on sale.
- Recommended for specific OS users (weight 0.1): The game is recommended for Windows users and Linux beginners but not for Mac users.
- Play continuously for best experience (weight 0.08): It is suggested to play the game continuously to the ending, preferably in one sitting, to remember commands and have the best experience.
- Persist through learning curve (weight 0.08): The game is recommended for new players, encouraging them to persist through the initial learning curve.
- Additional learning resources mentioned (weight 0.07): Some reviews mention additional learning resources like TryHackMe and HackTheBox.
- Recommended for relaxation (weight 0.04): The game is recommended for relaxation after a long day.
- Multiplayer mode requested (weight 0.04): There are requests for adding a multiplayer mode to the game.
- Language recommendation (weight 0.04): It is recommended to play the game in English to avoid translation issues.
- Wait for patches (weight 0.04): Some reviews recommend waiting for a patch before playing the game.

Other player notes:
- DLC enhances gameplay value (weight 0.05): The downloadable content adds substantial value to the game, providing players with additional content and experiences.
- Creative workshops improve content (weight 0.05): The inclusion of creative workshops allows players to generate and share new content, enriching the overall gaming experience.
- Mission blocker workaround available (weight 0.05): There is a specific workaround for a known issue that blocks progress in a particular mission, helping players continue their game.
- Frequent backup of save files (weight 0.04): Players are advised to frequently backup their save files to prevent loss of progress due to potential game issues or errors.
- Official Chinese translation and community (weight 0.04): The game includes an official Chinese translation, and there is notable involvement from the community in enhancing the game.

Emotions:
- Enjoyment (weight 0.15): Players enjoy the engaging puzzles, immersive hacking experience, and interesting story. The game's unique mechanics, such as the hacking gameplay loop and the use of real-life skills, contribute to a positive and enjoyable experience.
- Excitement (weight 0.12): The thrill of feeling like a real hacker, coupled with the game's immersive and addictive gameplay, creates a sense of excitement. The realistic simulation of hacking, challenging tasks, and engaging storyline contribute to this emotional response.
- Frustration (weight 0.11): Players experience frustration due to technical issues, bugs, and unclear objectives. The game's steep learning curve, repetitive mechanics, and lack of support for certain features also contribute to this frustration.
- Positive (weight 0.08): The game's learning aspects, engaging story, and enjoyable gameplay mechanics contribute to a positive experience. Players appreciate the unique puzzles, educational value, and the overall fun and well-thought-out gameplay.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.07): Players feel satisfied with the game's balanced difficulty, educational value, and the feeling of successfully completing tasks. The immersive hacking experience and the game's suitability for different skill levels also contribute to this satisfaction.
- Joy (weight 0.06): The emotional impact of the story, engaging gameplay, and the discovery of secrets and Easter eggs bring joy to players. The game's music, humor, and the freedom it offers enhance the overall enjoyable experience.
- Disappointment (weight 0.04): Players feel disappointed due to repetitive and lackluster gameplay, inconsistent translations, and game performance issues. The thin main story and lack of significant advancements also contribute to this disappointment.
- Amusement (weight 0.03): The game's humorous elements, such as funny IRC logs and amusing mission bugs, provide amusement to players. Despite some flaws, the gameplay experience remains fun and enjoyable.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.03): The game evokes nostalgia through its reminiscent gameplay of old DOS terminals and hacking methods. Players enjoy the nostalgic feel of the game's mechanics and the memories they bring back.
- Engagement (weight 0.03): The game's strong story, atmospheric music, and realistic hacking mechanics keep players engaged. The mystery aspect and the balance between learning and mastering hacking skills contribute to this engagement.
- Engaged (weight 0.02): Players are engaged by the game's unique storytelling, puzzles, and challenging yet relaxing gameplay. The atmosphere, style, and hacking mechanics contribute to a deeply engaging experience.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.02): The immersive and educational gameplay experience generates enthusiasm among players. The game's ability to hook players on the Linux system and its detailed and positive reviews contribute to this enthusiasm.
- Frustrated (weight 0.01): Repetitive tasks, resolution issues, and counter-intuitive gameplay lead to frustration. The lack of clear mission success confirmation and bugs affecting game progression also contribute to this frustration.
- Excited (weight 0.01): The story, puzzles, and the feeling of being a hacker create excitement. The adrenaline rush from missions and the discovery of secrets in the DLC enhance this excitement.
- Praise (weight 0.01): Players praise the game for its realistic Unix commands, engaging puzzles, and well-written story. The game's good OST and overall excellent experience contribute to this praise.
- Boredom (weight 0.01): Repetitive commands and gameplay lead to boredom. The monotonous nature of the game causes players to lose interest after a short period.
- Appreciation (weight 0.01): Players appreciate the game's educational value and realistic hacking experience. The artistic representation of hackers and the game's suitability for those interested in Linux and network security contribute to this appreciation.
- Sadness (weight 0.01): The emotional impact of the story and the bad ending bring sadness to players. The completion of the project and the assumption that there won't be more content also contribute to this sadness.
- Surprise (weight 0.01): Players are surprised by unexpected elements in the story and the game's ability to evoke strong emotions. The positive experience and the unexpected jumpscares in a text-based game contribute to this surprise.
- Admiration (weight 0.01): Players admire the game's balance, narrative, and authenticity. The game's reconstruction of the text adventure genre and its positive atmosphere contribute to this admiration.}