nethack

nethack [options]
Example: nethack -u MyHero

-d directory
    Specifies an alternate game data directory.
Useful for testing different configurations or versions.

-u player
    Starts a new game or resumes a saved game for the specified player name.
Especially useful on multi-user systems.

-s
    Displays the high scores table and then exits.

-r
    Attempts to resume the last saved game for the current user.

-v
    Prints the NetHack version information and then exits.

-?
    Displays a concise usage message and exits.

NetHack is a venerable single-player roguelike video game, celebrated for its complex and unpredictable gameplay. The player navigates a procedurally generated dungeon, starting from a high-level dungeon and progressing downwards, with the ultimate goal of retrieving the Amulet of Yendor from the deepest level and ascending back to the surface. The game features turn-based combat, permadeath, and a vast array of items, monsters, and interactive environmental elements. Players choose from various character classes, races, and alignments, each affecting gameplay. Its deep mechanics, intricate puzzles, and often humorous "YASD" (Yet Another Stupid Death) moments contribute to its legendary status and immense replayability. NetHack is primarily text-based using ASCII characters but can also be played with graphical tile sets.

Permadeath: Death is permanent, leading to the loss of all game progress. This makes careful decision-making crucial.
Steep Learning Curve: The game's immense depth, cryptic messages, and hidden mechanics require significant time and effort to master.
Graphical Interface: By default, NetHack uses ASCII characters for its display, which might be off-putting for players accustomed to modern graphics. Graphical tiles are available but often require specific compilation or installation.

NetHack uses a configuration file, typically ~/.nethackrc or nethackrc in the game directory, to customize various game behaviors, keybindings, and display options. Modifying this file is essential for personalizing the gameplay experience.

Players can save their game at any point by typing S. A saved game can only be resumed once; upon loading, the save file is automatically deleted. This design enforces the permadeath mechanic.

Due to its complexity, NetHack has a vibrant online community. Resources like the NetHack Wiki (nethackwiki.com) are invaluable for new and experienced players alike, offering detailed information on monsters, items, mechanics, and strategies.

NetHack traces its origins back to 1980 with the game Rogue. It specifically evolved from Hack (1985), which added persistent levels and diversified the dungeon environment beyond Rogue's flat structure. The "Net" in NetHack refers to its distributed development, which began in 1987 when Mike Stephenson took over the project and organized a team of volunteers collaborating over the internet. It is one of the longest continually developed video games, known for its slow but significant releases by the NetHack DevTeam, maintaining a loyal community over decades.

rogue(6), angband(6), crawl(6)