Hack Run

Being a hacker is something that has been glamorized in both film and TV. A focused person in front of a computer clacks away at a keyboard while defenses and security magically disables around another character in danger, saving the day. While it is possible for real hacking to look like this, it’s not very common. One game that does capture the essence of what real hacking looks like is a unique game called Hack RUN.

Developed and published by i273 LLC, Hack RUN is a game without 3D graphics, guns, or beefy soldier men in armor blasting away at bad guys. Instead, it takes place entirely within the interface of several different operating systems as it teaches you the correct commands to use to crack its security and bend the features of the system to your will. If you’ve ever wanted to be a hacker but were afraid of the consequences, then here is everything you need to know about Hack RUN.

Old School Hacking

Hack RUN doesn’t take place in a modern operating system as we know it. Instead, it uses an old-school graphical interface like UNIX or DOS as the basis for its gameplay. This perfectly captures the feeling of being a hacker in the 80s and 90s, just like what is portrayed in so many pieces of media from those eras.

The classic black windows with green text might even remind players of the many The Matrix video games like The Matrix: Path of Neo or Enter the Matrix, where the same green text scrolls past the screen as it loads or in between stages.

A Shadowy Truth

This game is not just about hacking into systems mindlessly. There is an actual story to be followed if you pay close attention. The systems you are breaking into in Hack RUN belong to a powerful, mysterious organization that does all kinds of evil things behind closed doors. As the very definition of an ethical hacker, it is your job to break into the systems they use to hide their deeds and uncover them for all of the world to see.

If your hacking is sloppy, you might get caught, and who knows what this organization is capable of. Use all of the skills you learn throughout the game to overcome adversity and reveal the truth, hopefully putting the owners of this evil corporation behind bars. Use the evidence in work emails and clues left behind to accomplish these goals.

Tons of Levels

Your quest for the truth will not be over quickly. Hack RUN contains more than 50 levels, all with increasing difficulty that will test you on everything you have learned.

Pros

• Fascinating hacking puzzles
• Challenges that will test your brain
• Interesting story that unfolds organically

Cons

• The basic presentation might not be enough for some gamers