nethack

TLDR

Start new game

$ nethack

Start with specific role

$ nethack -p [Wizard]

Start with specific race

$ nethack -r [Elf]

Restore saved game

$ nethack -u [playername]

Show version

$ nethack --version

nethack is a classic roguelike dungeon exploration game. Players descend through procedurally generated dungeons to retrieve the Amulet of Yendor, facing monsters, traps, and challenges.
The game features permadeath, ASCII graphics, and an incredibly deep gameplay system with countless interactions between items, monsters, and the environment.

PARAMETERS

-p role

Character role/class.

-r race

Character race.

-u name

Player name.

-s

Show high scores.

-n

Start with no stripes (simpler display).

-D

Debug/wizard mode.

ROLES

Archeologist, Barbarian, Caveman, Healer, Knight, Monk, Priest, Ranger, Rogue, Samurai, Tourist, Valkyrie, Wizard

KEY COMMANDS

hjkl/arrows: Move
o: Open door
c: Close door
s: Search
e: Eat
q: Quaff
r: Read
w: Wield
W: Wear
T: Take off
,: Pick up
d: Drop

CAVEATS

Steep learning curve. Permadeath means careful play needed. ASCII interface takes adjustment. Very deep mechanics to learn.

HISTORY

NetHack evolved from Hack (1985), itself derived from Rogue (1980). The NetHack DevTeam has maintained it since 1987, making it one of the longest-developed games. Its open development model pioneered collaborative game development.