null_dereference() is an action roguelike hacking simulation game where you take on the role of a hacker tasked with infiltrating increasingly complex corporate networks. Inspired by real-world hacking and Red Teaming practices, your goal is to pivot and move laterally through the procedurally generated networks. Cover your tracks though or the network defenders will backtrace your connections!

How to play

Use the terminal to enter commands. Enter the name of a computer to select it, then enter exploit to hack into it and grep to search it for more connections.

The ping command reveals computers adjacent to your selection, and the previous command will take you back to a previously selected computer.

Use the arrow keys or mouse scroll/scroll + shift to move the camera.

The more computers you hack, the more hacker reputation you'll earn. Get enough and you'll unlock more powerful hacking tools. You'll lose rep when a network defender catches you and removes your malware though!

If you lose all your access, that's game over. Find the company secrets in the middle of each network to win!

Happy hacking :)

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null_dereference() is our first attempt at a game jam, made for the 6th Bevy Game Jam with the theme "chain reaction". Please be understanding that any bugs are the result the short Jam development time. The default setting of 2 networks is the most stable version, but those more adventurous are encouraged to try to hack all 5 networks. We promise the game can be won!

Note: We've used the "rockyou.txt" password cracking wordlist for hostnames to add an extra layer of realism to the game, but please be aware that some players may find certain words or themes off-putting. We've tried to remove offensive entries from the list, but we're sorry if we missed any.