Hacknet

About Hacknet

Hacknet is a puzzle-heavy simulator that drops you into a world of terminal-based hacking. Developed by Team Fractal Alligator and published by Fellow Traveller, it launched on August 12, 2015, for PC, Mac, and Linux. The game tasks you with following automated emails from a deceased hacker named Bit, figuring out a conspiracy around his mysterious death and a powerful security system. You’ll use real-world commands like grep and awk to infiltrate networks, bypass firewalls, and uncover secrets. The setting leans into cyberpunk themes, exploring privacy erosion and corporate malfeasance. It’s a cerebral experience for players who enjoy methodical problem-solving and want to dabble in hacking without hand-holding.

Gameplay

Hacknet revolves around interacting with terminal interfaces, using simplified but authentic commands to complete objectives. Early on, you learn to navigate file systems, crack passwords, and manipulate network traffic. Each task feels like a puzzle: you might route data through proxy servers to avoid detection or exploit vulnerabilities in scripts. Progression is linear but layered, with Bit’s emails guiding you toward bigger targets. Sessions often involve typing commands, analyzing outputs, and deducing the right path forward. Controls are keyboard-only, which suits the text-driven focus. The game lacks action elements, instead emphasizing logic and patience. While tutorials are minimal, context clues and in-game hints help newcomers grasp the mechanics.

What Players Think

Hacknet holds an 82/100 on Metacritic, reflecting praise for its authenticity and depth. PlayPile community data shows an average completion rate of 68%, with most players logging 15-20 hours. The mood is split: 45% rate it as “focused,” 30% as “curious,” and 25% as “frustrated,” hinting at its steep learning curve. Users appreciate the real-world command integration, though some cite slow pacing as a barrier. One review snippet notes, “Feels like learning a new language while solving a mystery.” Achievements are present but not overly punishing, with 70% of players earning at least half. The game’s niche appeal is clear, ideal for logic enthusiasts but less so for casual players.

PlayPile's Take

Hacknet is worth playing if you crave cerebral puzzles and a glimpse into hacking mechanics. It’s best suited for those with patience for technical details and a fondness for slow-burn narratives. While the lack of hand-holding might deter some, the satisfaction of mastering commands and figuring out Bit’s story is rewarding. At its current price point (if available), it’s a budget-friendly deep dive into a unique genre. Skip if you prefer fast action or instant gratification. For the right audience, it’s a standout simulator that rewards persistence.

Storyline

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.