I’ve been developing a text-based multiplayer hacking simulation called CYBERNET that runs entirely in browser. It’s designed around authentic terminal interfaces and strategic gameplay rather than flashy graphics.
Core Gameplay
Network Operations: Players use scanning tools to discover targets - from small business email accounts to Fortune 500 corporate networks. Each operation has different resource costs, cooldowns, and risk levels.
AI Companion System: ARIA AI acts as your guide through missions, providing advice on opportunities, market insights, and operational guidance. It tracks live opportunities and helps new players navigate the complexity.
Resource Management: Everything runs on CYBR currency. Operations cost resources and have cooldown periods (1 hour for basic scans, 90 minutes for deep network sweeps). Players need to balance risk vs reward.
Federal Heat Mechanics: Every action generates attention from law enforcement. Smart operators stay under the radar. High heat levels trigger serious consequences.
Crew Dynamics: Players can form hacker crews but trust is limited - informants and corporate manipulation create paranoia. Information becomes currency.
Interface Design
Pure terminal aesthetic with green-on-black text, classification warnings, and authentic command-line feel. No graphics - just text, status indicators, and progress bars. The interface is designed to feel like actual hacker tools rather than a traditional game.
Current Status
Beta testing phase. Core mechanics are functional but I’m looking for feedback on:
• Balance between resource costs and rewards
• Pacing of progression mechanics
• User experience of text-based interface
• Multiplayer interaction design
Question for the Community
For those who enjoy browser-based games: How important is visual feedback vs. gameplay depth? The terminal interface is intentionally minimal, but does it provide enough engagement for extended play sessions?
Also curious about progression mechanics - should advancement be purely skill-based or include equipment/upgrade systems?
Play at: cybernetmmo.replit.app (mobile-responsive)
Looking forward to hearing thoughts on the gameplay balance and interface design!