Summary
- Release Year: 1985
- Genres: Adventure, Puzzle, Strategy
- Platforms: Amiga, Amstrad CPC, Apple II, Atari 8-bit, Atari ST/STE, Commodore C64/128/MAX, DOS, Mac, MSX, PC-8800 Series, ZX Spectrum
- Developers: Activision
- Publishers: Pony Canyon
Hacker (1985): A Text-Based Adventure with a Unique Twist
Hacker is a text-based adventure game released in 1985 for the Apple II, Commodore 64, and MS-DOS. Developed by Infocom, the game is known for its challenging puzzles, branching storyline, and innovative use of technology.
Gameplay
The player takes on the role of a hacker who must infiltrate the Magma, Ltd. computer system and retrieve stolen documents. To do this, the player must navigate a series of underground tunnels, interact with NPCs, and solve puzzles.
The game’s most unique feature is its use of a real-world hacking system. The player can use commands to access the Magma, Ltd. computer system and perform various actions, such as reading files, sending messages, and hacking into other systems.
Plot
The game begins with the player character receiving a message from a mysterious source. The message claims that Magma, Ltd. is planning to take over the world, and that the player must stop them.
The player must then travel around the globe, infiltrating Magma, Ltd. facilities and collecting pieces of a stolen document. The document contains Magma, Ltd.’s plans for world domination, and the player must deliver it to Washington, D.C. before it falls into the wrong hands.
Puzzles
Hacker is known for its challenging puzzles. Many of the puzzles require the player to use the game’s hacking system to access information or perform actions. Other puzzles require the player to think laterally and use their knowledge of the game world.
One of the most famous puzzles in the game is the “robot identification” puzzle. The player must identify various parts of a robot unit by pointing the cursor at the relevant parts and pressing the fire button. Most parts of the unit have exotic and technical names, such as “asynchronous data compactor” or “phlamson joint.” This puzzle can be difficult, but it is also a good example of the game’s unique and innovative gameplay.
Legacy
Hacker was a critical and commercial success, and it is considered to be one of the greatest text-based adventure games ever made. The game’s innovative use of technology and its challenging puzzles helped to set a new standard for the genre.
Hacker has been ported to many different platforms over the years, and it is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s legacy is also evident in the many other games that have been inspired by it, such as the Metal Gear Solid series and the Deus Ex series.
Review
Hacker is a challenging and rewarding adventure game that will test your wits and your patience. With its complex puzzles and branching storyline, it’s a game that will keep you coming back for more.
Score: 8.5/10
Pros:
- Innovative use of technology
- Challenging puzzles
- Branching storyline
- Replayability
Cons:
- Can be difficult at times
- Some puzzles may be too obscure
- Dated graphics and interface
Overall, Hacker is a classic adventure game that is still worth playing today. If you’re a fan of the genre, or if you’re just looking for a challenging and rewarding game, then I highly recommend checking it out.
Review Score
8.5/10
