868-HACK

 iOS
Metascore
84

Generally favorable reviews - based on 6 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 6
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 6
  3. Negative: 0 out of 6
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  1. 148Apps
    Sep 2, 2013
    80
    868-HACK is a very challenging yet thoughtfully-designed roguelike from Michael Brough.
  2. Edge Magazine
    Sep 2, 2013
    80
    It’s perhaps easier to admire than to enjoy, but those who are prepared to meet its bracing challenge may find themselves hooked by one of the smartest iOS games in some time.
  3. Hyper Magazine
    Oct 3, 2013
    80
    Compelling and fun. [Nov 2013, p.80]
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  5. Pocket Gamer UK
    Sep 4, 2013
    80
    It might start out as a closed book, but the more you play 868-Hack, the more you'll find to enjoy.
  6. Thunderbolt
    Sep 12, 2013
    80
    It’s an overly tough cookie to initially crack into, but like Tetris, it’s a game with a simple base interaction made compelling through intelligently constructed sub-systems.
  7. TouchArcade
    Sep 6, 2013
    100
    868-HACK is for everyone who loves to tell themselves, “Just one more try”, and realize 2 more hours have passed. It’s that kind of gripping game experience that makes you forget all else exists at that moment.

Awards & Rankings

57
#57 Best iOS Game of 2013

User Reviews

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User Score
6.3

Mixed or average reviews- based on 6 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 6
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 6
  3. Negative: 2 out of 6
  1. bearcav
    Jun 4, 2014
    9
    868-HACK is a super-addictive game. You might think that it's either just cryptic or bad at first glance - the graphics are somewhat minimal,868-HACK is a super-addictive game. You might think that it's either just cryptic or bad at first glance - the graphics are somewhat minimal, and the sound is just weird, but the more you play it, the more you get sucked in. It gets extremely strategic as you figure out what classes do and plan your strategy for each randomly-generated level. Soon enough, you're chasing your high score over and over again. It's not a game for everyone - if you're into cinematic experiences or in-app purchases, this isn't your game, but if you love strategy/turn-based games, check this out.… Full Review »
  2. BohemianCoast
    Feb 2, 2014
    10
    The plot of this quickplay roguelike is simple; you're hacking into a computer system; you can 'siphon' the resources available, and in theThe plot of this quickplay roguelike is simple; you're hacking into a computer system; you can 'siphon' the resources available, and in the process pick up additional ammunition and spells, or score. But doing so alerts the system to your presence and enemies, of four different types appear. Which you might be able to deal with, with your spells. Or maybe not. Eventually you die; this is a roguelike, after all; and you start again from the beginning. Or you make it through eight levels, and get the chance to play again.

    I think this is the finest roguelike that has yet been created on iOS. For one thing, it uses the platform well; with small maps, short games, and a swipe to both move and fire. But nevertheless, the depth is considerable. Everything's balanced, many different approaches can work. But normally won't. You start with a few spells ('programs') enabled, enough to learn the game. Each time you beat the game, another is unlocked. That gives you more scope to design strategies, but also makes the game more complex.

    Once you've beaten the game a few times, you start to notice that the real fun comes in 'streaks'; getting through the 8 levels more than once in a row.

    It's likely to be a game that polarises people -- it's unashamedly difficult to start playing, with a deliberately obscure tutorial. The graphics are absolutely clear but also absolutely basic. It features glorious, roguelike permadeath. It's 'expensive'; though I've spent a lot more money than this on many less good games.

    So. If you value design over flashy graphics, and like games where you need to think, 868-HACK is just about the best of those for ages.    … Full Review »
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