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hackmud

Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), Linux • 2016

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Quick resume

hackmud is a retro cyberpunk RPG where you play a digital persona in a chaotic, unpredictable, and often goofy abandoned internet. Enter a 90s hacker movie filled with scripts, scams, and sabotage. Explore the world of digital secrets and forge your legacy through cunning, creativity, or disruption.

Global score

77/100

Genres

Indie, Massively Multiplayer, Role-playing (RPG), Simulator, Strategy, Puzzle

Pros

  • High skill and creativity in scripting
  • Strong and supportive community
  • Deep and challenging puzzles
  • Immersive cyberpunk atmosphere
  • Active developer engagement

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for non-programmers
  • Server and chat stability issues at launch
  • Small player base limits mmo experience
  • Text-based interface may deter casual players
  • Potential frustration from pvp losses

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    5

    "Players have full freedom to write their own scripts, choose play styles, and direct their own actions in an open sandbox."

  • Competence
    5

    "High skill ceiling with complex puzzles, scripting challenges, and player-versus-player hacking requiring mastery and continuous learning."

  • Competition
    4

    "Strong competitive elements including PvP hacking, leaderboards, and player-driven economy with rivalries and scams."

  • Continuation
    4

    "Players report long sessions, habitual play, and deep engagement with scripting and community activities."

  • Cooperation
    3

    "Players form corporations, alliances, and collaborate on scripts and strategies, though betrayal and deception are common."

  • Creativity
    5

    "Extensive player-created content, scripts, puzzles, and tools allow for high creativity and modification."

  • Domination
    3

    "Players exert power over others through hacking, scams, and social engineering, though community cooperation also exists."

  • Escapism
    4

    "Immersive cyberpunk world and complex gameplay provide strong distraction and escape from real life."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily out of interest and intrinsic motivation; no evidence of obligation or pressure."

  • Experimenting
    5

    "Players constantly explore new scripts, mechanics, and strategies; the game encourages tinkering and innovation."

  • Exploration
    4

    "Players discover hidden lore, puzzles, NPCs, and secrets in a vast text-based world."

  • Expression
    4

    "Players customize scripts, create unique tools, and shape their in-game identity through code and social interaction."

  • Fantasy
    3

    "Fictional cyberpunk setting with AI sentience and hacking fantasy elements."

  • Fellowship
    4

    "Strong community presence, active Discord, and social channels foster a sense of belonging."

  • Growth
    5

    "Players learn programming, problem solving, and hacking skills; community helps newcomers grow."

  • Health
    -5

    "Sedentary gameplay focused on coding and terminal interaction."

  • Idle
    -3

    "Requires focused attention and active engagement; not suitable for casual or background play."

  • Intimacy
    2

    "Players form friendships and collaborate, though interactions can be competitive and deceptive."

  • Leadership
    3

    "Players lead corporations, coordinate attacks, and guide scripting projects."

  • Progression
    4

    "Players accumulate in-game currency, upgrades, and scripting capabilities to advance."

  • Relaxation
    -2

    "Gameplay is challenging and mentally demanding, with tension from PvP and complex puzzles."

  • Sensation
    2

    "Enjoyment comes from intellectual stimulation and community interaction rather than sensory input."

  • Status
    3

    "Recognition through leaderboards, scripting reputation, and community standing is valued."

  • Story
    3

    "The game has lore and narrative elements, especially in the tutorial and NPC interactions."

  • Strategy
    5

    "High emphasis on planning, problem solving, and strategic thinking in hacking and social engineering."

  • Thrill
    4

    "Risk and suspense from PvP hacking, scams, and timed puzzles create excitement and tension."

  • Value
    4

    "Players perceive strong value from learning programming, community, and long-term engagement."

  • Violence
    -4

    "Gameplay focuses on hacking and scripting rather than physical violence or destruction."

  • Survival
    4

    "Players must protect assets, avoid being hacked, and manage risks to survive in the game world."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026