The Linux terminal is a versatile and powerful utility that serves as the command center for running commands, managing software, and performing administrative tasks. It has long been celebrated for its efficiency and effectiveness in the realm of system administration.
However, one question that often arises among Linux users is whether gaming can be enjoyed within this command-line environment.
Surprisingly, the answer is a resounding “yes.”
While the Linux terminal may not boast the flashy graphics and immersive experiences found in mainstream gaming, it harbors a treasure trove of lightweight and addictive games that can be played directly within its text-based interface.
In this article, we embark on a journey to explore the top 20 Linux terminal-based games, each with its own charm and gameplay mechanics.
Terminal Based Games in Linux
There are many terminal based games. From nostalgic classics like Snake to intriguing and challenging titles like Bastet and Moon Buggy, the Linux terminal gaming scene offers a unique and rewarding experience for enthusiasts.
Below is the list which we think are good.
1. nSnake
nSnake is a terminal-based game for Linux that brings the classic snake game to the command line. It offers a simple and enjoyable gaming experience, perfect for a break from daily tasks or for systems with limited resources. Developed using the ncurses library, nSnake runs smoothly in terminal emulators without requiring a graphical desktop environment.
To install nSnake on Debian, RPM, and Arch-based Linux distributions, follow the steps below:
- Debian-based (e.g., Ubuntu, Debian, Linux Mint):Open the terminal and enter the following command:
sudo apt-get update sudo apt-get install nsnake
- RPM-based (e.g., Fedora, CentOS, RHEL):Open the terminal and enter the following command:
sudo dnf install nsnake
- Arch-based (e.g., Arch Linux, Manjaro):Open the terminal and enter the following command:
sudo pacman -S nsnake
Once installed, simply type nsnake in the terminal to launch the game. The game can be controlled using the arrow keys, and the spacebar can be used to pause the game.
nSnake’s minimalist design, nostalgic appeal, and terminal compatibility make it a popular choice among Linux users who enjoy gaming in the terminal. Its lightweight nature and compatibility with a wide range of Linux distributions ensure that nSnake can be enjoyed by users with varying system resources, making it an ideal pastime for a quick break or a more extended gaming session.
2. 2048-cli
2048-cli is a terminal-based version of the popular 2048 puzzle game for Linux. It provides an engaging and challenging gaming experience within the command line, perfect for users who appreciate minimalist and text-based applications. The game’s objective is to slide and combine numbered tiles on a grid, aiming to create a tile with the value of 2048.
To install 2048-cli on Debian, RPM, and Arch-based Linux distributions, follow the steps below:
- Debian-based (e.g., Ubuntu, Debian, Linux Mint):Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo apt-get update sudo apt-get install 2048-cli
- RPM-based (e.g., Fedora, CentOS, RHEL):Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo dnf install 2048-cli
- Arch-based (e.g., Arch Linux, Manjaro):Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo pacman -S 2048-cli
Once installed, simply type 2048-cli in the terminal to launch the game. The game can be controlled using the arrow keys, which move the tiles in the corresponding direction. When two tiles with the same number collide, they merge into a single tile with double the value. The game continues until the 2048 tile is created or no more moves are possible.
2048-cli retains the core gameplay of the original 2048 game while offering a lightweight and resource-friendly alternative that can be played within the Linux terminal. This terminal-based version is ideal for users seeking a quick and enjoyable break from their tasks or those with limited system resources. Its compatibility with a wide range of Linux distributions ensures that 2048-cli can be enjoyed by users across the Linux community, providing a challenging and engaging gaming experience.
3. Greed
Greed is a terminal-based game for Linux that offers a simple yet engaging gaming experience. The game presents a grid of numbers, and the player moves in any of the four cardinal directions (up, down, left, or right) to consume as many numbers as possible. The objective is to accumulate the highest score by eating a path through the grid before running out of moves.
To install Greed on Debian, RPM, and Arch-based Linux distributions, follow the steps below:
Debian-based (e.g., Ubuntu, Debian, Linux Mint):
Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo apt-get update sudo apt-get install greed
RPM-based (e.g., Fedora, CentOS, RHEL):
Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo dnf install greed
Arch-based (e.g., Arch Linux, Manjaro):
Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo pacman -S greed
Once installed, simply type greed in the terminal to launch the game. The game can be controlled using the arrow keys or the Vim-style keys (h, j, k, l) to move in the desired direction. Each move consumes the number at the current position, and the player’s score increases by that amount. The game ends when there are no valid moves left.
Greed provides a lightweight and enjoyable gaming experience within the Linux terminal. Its minimalist design and simple gameplay make it an excellent choice for users seeking a quick break or a casual gaming session. Compatible with a wide range of Linux distributions, Greed offers an engaging challenge that can be enjoyed by users across the Linux community.
4. MyMan
MyMan is a terminal-based game for Linux that brings the classic Pac-Man experience to the command line. The game features ASCII art graphics and familiar gameplay, where players navigate Pac-Man through a maze, collecting dots and avoiding ghosts. Power pellets allow Pac-Man to temporarily chase and consume ghosts for bonus points.
To install MyMan on Debian, RPM, and Arch-based Linux distributions, follow the steps below:
Debian-based (e.g., Ubuntu, Debian, Linux Mint):
Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo apt-get update sudo apt-get install myman
RPM-based (e.g., Fedora, CentOS, RHEL):
MyMan is not available in the default repositories for RPM-based distributions. You can try downloading the source code and compiling it manually from the official MyMan website: http://myman.sourceforge.net/
Arch-based (e.g., Arch Linux, Manjaro):
MyMan is available in the AUR (Arch User Repository). To install it, you need to have an AUR helper, such as yay or paru. Once you have an AUR helper installed, enter the following command:
yay -S myman-git
or
paru -S myman-git
Once installed, simply type myman in the terminal to launch the game. The game can be controlled using the arrow keys to move Pac-Man in the desired direction.
MyMan offers a nostalgic and enjoyable gaming experience within the Linux terminal, providing an entertaining break from daily tasks. Its ASCII art graphics and faithful representation of the original Pac-Man gameplay make it a popular choice among Linux users seeking classic gaming experiences in the command line.
5. Moon-Buggy
Moon-Buggy is a terminal-based game for Linux that features a lunar rover driving across the Moon’s surface in an ASCII-art side-scrolling environment. The objective is to drive as far as possible while jumping over craters and other obstacles. This simple yet entertaining game provides an enjoyable experience within the Linux terminal.
To install Moon-Buggy on Debian, RPM, and Arch-based Linux distributions, follow the steps below:
Debian-based (e.g., Ubuntu, Debian, Linux Mint):
Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo apt-get update sudo apt-get install moon-buggy
RPM-based (e.g., Fedora, CentOS, RHEL):
Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo dnf install moon-buggy
Arch-based (e.g., Arch Linux, Manjaro):
Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo pacman -S moon-buggy
Once installed, simply type moon-buggy in the terminal to launch the game. The game can be controlled using the spacebar to make the lunar rover jump over obstacles.
Moon-Buggy offers a lightweight and enjoyable gaming experience within the Linux terminal. Its ASCII art graphics and simple gameplay make it an excellent choice for users seeking a quick break or a casual gaming session. Compatible with a wide range of Linux distributions, Moon-Buggy provides an engaging challenge that can be enjoyed by users across the Linux community.
6. Nudoku
Nudoku is a terminal-based game for Linux that brings the popular Sudoku puzzle game to the command line. It offers a minimalist and engaging experience, allowing players to solve Sudoku puzzles within the terminal environment. Nudoku provides varying difficulty levels, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced players.
To install Nudoku on Debian, RPM, and Arch-based Linux distributions, follow the steps below:
Debian-based (e.g., Ubuntu, Debian, Linux Mint):
Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo apt-get update sudo apt-get install nudoku
RPM-based (e.g., Fedora, CentOS, RHEL):
Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo dnf install nudoku
Arch-based (e.g., Arch Linux, Manjaro):
Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo pacman -S nudoku
Once installed, simply type nudoku in the terminal to launch the game. The game can be controlled using the arrow keys to navigate the grid and the number keys (1-9) to input values. Use the ‘q’ key to quit the game at any time.
Nudoku offers a lightweight and enjoyable gaming experience within the Linux terminal. Its minimalist design and varying difficulty levels make it an excellent choice for users seeking a quick break or a more extended gaming session. Compatible with a wide range of Linux distributions, Nudoku provides an engaging challenge that can be enjoyed by users across the Linux community.
7. Bastet
Bastet, short for “Bastard Tetris,” is a terminal-based game for Linux that offers a unique twist on the classic Tetris experience. The game’s algorithm is designed to provide the most challenging gameplay possible by selecting the worst possible piece for your current situation. This added difficulty makes Bastet a more challenging and engaging alternative to traditional Tetris games.
To install Bastet on Debian, RPM, and Arch-based Linux distributions, follow the steps below:
Debian-based (e.g., Ubuntu, Debian, Linux Mint):
Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo apt-get update sudo apt-get install bastet
RPM-based (e.g., Fedora, CentOS, RHEL):
Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo dnf install bastet
Arch-based (e.g., Arch Linux, Manjaro):
Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo pacman -S bastet
Once installed, simply type bastet in the terminal to launch the game. The game can be controlled using the arrow keys to move and rotate the falling pieces, and the spacebar to drop them instantly.
Bastet offers an enjoyable and challenging gaming experience within the Linux terminal. Its unique twist on the classic Tetris gameplay makes it an excellent choice for users seeking a more demanding puzzle game. Compatible with a wide range of Linux distributions, Bastet provides an engaging challenge that can be enjoyed by users across the Linux community.
8. CMatrix
CMatrix is not a game, but rather a terminal-based program for Linux that displays the “falling code” effect often associated with the Matrix film series. It creates an eye-catching, animated simulation of green characters scrolling down the screen, providing a visually appealing experience within the terminal environment. CMatrix offers customization options, such as color and scrolling speed, to personalize the appearance of the Matrix effect.
To install CMatrix on Debian, RPM, and Arch-based Linux distributions, follow the steps below:
Debian-based (e.g., Ubuntu, Debian, Linux Mint):
Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo apt-get update sudo apt-get install cmatrix
RPM-based (e.g., Fedora, CentOS, RHEL):
Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo dnf install cmatrix
Arch-based (e.g., Arch Linux, Manjaro):
Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo pacman -S cmatrix
Once installed, simply type cmatrix in the terminal to launch the program. To customize the appearance of CMatrix, you can use command-line options, such as -C to change the color, -s to adjust the scrolling speed, and -b for bold characters.
CMatrix provides a visually captivating and mesmerizing experience within the Linux terminal. Its Matrix-inspired falling code effect and customization options make it an entertaining and appealing addition to any terminal environment. Compatible with a wide range of Linux distributions, CMatrix can be enjoyed by users across the Linux community.
9. ASCIIpOrtal
ASCIIpOrtal is a terminal-based game for Linux inspired by the popular Portal game series. It brings the concept of portals to a 2D, ASCII-art environment, challenging players to solve puzzles by creating and utilizing portals to navigate through the levels. The game offers an engaging and unique gaming experience within the Linux terminal, complete with custom maps and community-contributed content.
To install ASCIIpOrtal on Debian, RPM, and Arch-based Linux distributions, follow the steps below:
Debian-based (e.g., Ubuntu, Debian, Linux Mint):
ASCIIpOrtal is not available in the default repositories for Debian-based distributions. You can try downloading the source code and compiling it manually from the official ASCIIpOrtal GitHub repository: https://github.com/cymonsgames/ASCIIpOrtal
RPM-based (e.g., Fedora, CentOS, RHEL):
ASCIIpOrtal is not available in the default repositories for RPM-based distributions. You can try downloading the source code and compiling it manually from the official ASCIIpOrtal GitHub repository: https://github.com/cymonsgames/ASCIIpOrtal
Arch-based (e.g., Arch Linux, Manjaro):
ASCIIpOrtal is available in the AUR (Arch User Repository). To install it, you need to have an AUR helper, such as yay or paru. Once you have an AUR helper installed, enter the following command:
yay -S asciijump-git
or
paru -S asciijump-git
Once installed, simply type asciijump in the terminal to launch the game. The game can be controlled using the arrow keys to move and the ‘z’ and ‘x’ keys to create and utilize portals.
ASCIIpOrtal offers an innovative and enjoyable gaming experience within the Linux terminal. Its unique combination of the Portal concept and ASCII-art graphics make it a popular choice among Linux users seeking challenging and engaging puzzle games. Although not directly available in some distribution repositories, its compatibility with various Linux distributions ensures that ASCIIpOrtal can be enjoyed by users across the Linux community.
10. tty-solitaire
tty-solitaire is a terminal-based game for Linux that brings the classic Klondike solitaire card game to the command line. It features minimalist ASCII-art graphics and familiar gameplay, providing a relaxing and enjoyable experience within the Linux terminal environment. tty-solitaire is perfect for those seeking a quick break or a casual gaming session.
To install tty-solitaire on Debian, RPM, and Arch-based Linux distributions, follow the steps below:
Debian-based (e.g., Ubuntu, Debian, Linux Mint):
tty-solitaire is not available in the default repositories for Debian-based distributions. You can try downloading the source code and compiling it manually from the official tty-solitaire GitHub repository: https://github.com/mpereira/tty-solitaire
RPM-based (e.g., Fedora, CentOS, RHEL):
tty-solitaire is not available in the default repositories for RPM-based distributions. You can try downloading the source code and compiling it manually from the official tty-solitaire GitHub repository: https://github.com/mpereira/tty-solitaire
Arch-based (e.g., Arch Linux, Manjaro):
tty-solitaire is available in the AUR (Arch User Repository). To install it, you need to have an AUR helper, such as yay or paru. Once you have an AUR helper installed, enter the following command:
yay -S tty-solitaire
or
paru -S tty-solitaire
Once installed, simply type ttysolitaire in the terminal to launch the game. The game can be controlled using the arrow keys to navigate the cards, the ‘enter’ key to select cards, and the ‘q’ key to quit the game.
tty-solitaire offers a lightweight and enjoyable gaming experience within the Linux terminal. Its minimalist design and classic solitaire gameplay make it an excellent choice for users seeking a quick break or a casual gaming session. Though not directly available in some distribution repositories, its compatibility with various Linux distributions ensures that tty-solitaire can be enjoyed by users across the Linux community.
11. Dwarf Fortress
Dwarf Fortress is a complex and highly detailed simulation game that runs on Linux, featuring two primary modes: Fortress Mode and Adventure Mode. In Fortress Mode, players manage a colony of dwarves tasked with constructing a fortress, while Adventure Mode allows players to explore an open-world environment as a single character. Dwarf Fortress is known for its depth, intricate gameplay mechanics, and steep learning curve, making it a challenging yet rewarding experience.
To install Dwarf Fortress on Debian, RPM, and Arch-based Linux distributions, follow the steps below:
- Debian-based (e.g., Ubuntu, Debian, Linux Mint):Dwarf Fortress is not available in the default repositories for Debian-based distributions. However, you can download the Linux version from the official Dwarf Fortress website (http://www.bay12games.com/dwarves/) and follow the instructions provided in the README file to install and run the game.
- RPM-based (e.g., Fedora, CentOS, RHEL):Dwarf Fortress is not available in the default repositories for RPM-based distributions. However, you can download the Linux version from the official Dwarf Fortress website (http://www.bay12games.com/dwarves/) and follow the instructions provided in the README file to install and run the game.
- Arch-based (e.g., Arch Linux, Manjaro):Dwarf Fortress is available in the AUR (Arch User Repository). To install it, you need to have an AUR helper, such as yay or paru. Once you have an AUR helper installed, enter the following command:
yay -S dwarffortress
or
paru -S dwarffortress
Once installed, simply type dwarffortress in the terminal to launch the game. Due to the complexity of the game, it’s highly recommended to consult the official Dwarf Fortress wiki (http://dwarffortresswiki.org/) for tutorials and guides on how to play and control the game effectively.
Dwarf Fortress offers a rich and immersive gaming experience within the Linux environment. Its depth, detail, and complexity make it a popular choice for players seeking a challenging and rewarding gaming experience. Although not directly available in some distribution repositories, its compatibility with various Linux distributions ensures that Dwarf Fortress can be enjoyed by users across the Linux community.
12. Cataclysm: Dark Days Ahead
Cataclysm: Dark Days Ahead (C:DDA) is a terminal-based, open-world survival game for Linux, set in a post-apocalyptic world filled with zombies and other dangerous creatures. Players must navigate the treacherous environment while scavenging for resources, crafting items, and building shelters to stay alive. The game features a highly detailed and dynamic world, deep character customization, and a vast array of crafting options, providing an immersive and challenging experience.
To install Cataclysm: Dark Days Ahead on Debian, RPM, and Arch-based Linux distributions, follow the steps below:
- Debian-based (e.g., Ubuntu, Debian, Linux Mint):Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo apt-get update sudo apt-get install cataclysm-dda-curses
- RPM-based (e.g., Fedora, CentOS, RHEL):Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo dnf install cataclysm-dda
- Arch-based (e.g., Arch Linux, Manjaro):Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo pacman -S cataclysm-dda
Once installed, simply type cataclysm in the terminal to launch the game. Due to the complexity of the game, it’s highly recommended to consult the official Cataclysm: Dark Days Ahead wiki (https://cdda-trunk.chezzo.com/) for tutorials and guides on how to play and control the game effectively.
Cataclysm: Dark Days Ahead offers a deep and immersive gaming experience within the Linux terminal. Its detailed, dynamic world, extensive crafting system, and challenging survival gameplay make it a popular choice for players seeking a highly engaging and rewarding gaming experience. Compatible with a wide range of Linux distributions, Cataclysm: Dark Days Ahead provides an intense challenge that can be enjoyed by users across the Linux community.
13. NetHack
NetHack is a classic terminal-based roguelike game for Linux that has been around since 1987. It features a deep and complex dungeon-crawling experience, where players explore procedurally generated levels filled with monsters, traps, and treasures. The game is known for its steep learning curve, permadeath system, and extensive use of ASCII graphics, making it a challenging and rewarding experience for players who enjoy exploration and strategy.
To install NetHack on Debian, RPM, and Arch-based Linux distributions, follow the steps below:
- Debian-based (e.g., Ubuntu, Debian, Linux Mint):Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo apt-get update sudo apt-get install nethack-console
- RPM-based (e.g., Fedora, CentOS, RHEL):Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo dnf install nethack
- Arch-based (e.g., Arch Linux, Manjaro):Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo pacman -S nethack
Once installed, simply type nethack in the terminal to launch the game. Due to the complexity of the game, it’s highly recommended to consult the official NetHack website (https://www.nethack.org/) and the NetHack wiki (https://nethackwiki.com/) for tutorials, guides, and strategies to help you play and control the game effectively.
NetHack offers a deep and engaging gaming experience within the Linux terminal. Its intricate gameplay, challenging mechanics, and richly detailed ASCII graphics make it a popular choice for players seeking a classic roguelike experience. Compatible with a wide range of Linux distributions, NetHack provides an enduring challenge that can be enjoyed by users across the Linux community.
14. Angband
Angband is a classic terminal-based roguelike game for Linux that draws inspiration from J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth. Players must explore a series of procedurally generated dungeons, battling monsters and collecting treasures along the way, in a quest to defeat the evil Morgoth. Angband is known for its deep gameplay, extensive character customization, and permadeath system, making it a challenging and rewarding experience for players who enjoy exploration and strategy.
To install Angband on Debian, RPM, and Arch-based Linux distributions, follow the steps below:
- Debian-based (e.g., Ubuntu, Debian, Linux Mint):Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo apt-get update sudo apt-get install angband
- RPM-based (e.g., Fedora, CentOS, RHEL):Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo dnf install angband
- Arch-based (e.g., Arch Linux, Manjaro):Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo pacman -S angband
Once installed, simply type angband in the terminal to launch the game. Due to the complexity of the game, it’s highly recommended to consult the official Angband website (http://rephial.org/) and the Angband wiki (http://angband.oook.cz/) for tutorials, guides, and strategies to help you play and control the game effectively.
Angband offers a deep and engaging gaming experience within the Linux terminal. Its rich gameplay, detailed character customization, and challenging mechanics make it a popular choice for players seeking a classic roguelike experience set in the world of Middle-earth. Compatible with a wide range of Linux distributions, Angband provides a lasting challenge that can be enjoyed by users across the Linux community.
15. Cogmind
Cogmind is a sci-fi-themed terminal-based roguelike game for Linux, where players control a robot that can evolve by attaching various parts scavenged from defeated enemies and the environment. The game is known for its highly detailed ASCII graphics, intuitive interface, and deep customization options, providing a unique and challenging experience for players who enjoy exploration and strategy.
Currently, Cogmind is not available in the official repositories for Debian, RPM, or Arch-based Linux distributions. However, you can purchase and download the game from the official Cogmind website (https://www.gridsagegames.com/cogmind/) or Steam (https://store.steampowered.com/app/722730/Cogmind/), and follow the installation instructions provided.
To install Cogmind on Debian, RPM, and Arch-based Linux distributions, follow the steps below:
- Purchase and download Cogmind from the official website or Steam.
- Extract the downloaded archive to a preferred location on your system.
- Navigate to the extracted folder and locate the executable file named ‘cogmind’ (for the official website version) or follow Steam’s instructions for launching the game (for the Steam version).
- To launch the game, open the terminal, navigate to the directory containing the ‘cogmind’ executable, and enter the following command:
./cogmind
Due to the complexity of the game, it’s highly recommended to consult the official Cogmind website (https://www.gridsagegames.com/cogmind/) and the Cogmind wiki (https://www.reddit.com/r/Cogmind/) for tutorials, guides, and strategies to help you play and control the game effectively.
Cogmind offers a deep and engaging gaming experience within the Linux terminal. Its detailed ASCII graphics, intuitive interface, and extensive customization options make it a popular choice for players seeking a unique roguelike experience set in a sci-fi world. Though not available in the official repositories, its compatibility with various Linux distributions ensures that Cogmind can be enjoyed by users across the Linux community.
16. Brogue
Brogue is a terminal-based roguelike game for Linux, featuring an immersive dungeon-crawling experience with highly detailed ASCII graphics. The game focuses on simplicity and tactical gameplay, making it accessible to newcomers to the roguelike genre while still providing a challenge for experienced players. Brogue’s procedurally generated levels, various items, and diverse monsters create a unique and engaging experience each time you play.
To install Brogue on Debian, RPM, and Arch-based Linux distributions, follow the steps below:
- Debian-based (e.g., Ubuntu, Debian, Linux Mint):Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo apt-get update sudo apt-get install brogue
- RPM-based (e.g., Fedora, CentOS, RHEL):Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo dnf install brogue
- Arch-based (e.g., Arch Linux, Manjaro):Brogue is available in the AUR (Arch User Repository). To install it, you need to have an AUR helper, such as
yayorparu. Once you have an AUR helper installed, enter the following command:yay -S brogue
or
paru -S brogue
Once installed, simply type brogue in the terminal to launch the game. Due to the game’s tactical nature, it’s highly recommended to consult the official Brogue website (https://sites.google.com/site/broguegame/) and the Brogue subreddit (https://www.reddit.com/r/brogueforum/) for tutorials, guides, and strategies to help you play and control the game effectively.
Brogue offers a deep and engaging gaming experience within the Linux terminal. Its detailed ASCII graphics, accessible gameplay, and tactical depth make it a popular choice for players seeking a classic roguelike experience with modern design elements. Compatible with a wide range of Linux distributions, Brogue provides a challenging and rewarding experience that can be enjoyed by users across the Linux community.
17. ADOM (Ancient Domains of Mystery)
ADOM (Ancient Domains of Mystery) is a classic terminal-based roguelike game for Linux that combines dungeon-crawling, exploration, and role-playing elements. Players must navigate a vast, procedurally generated world filled with diverse locations, creatures, and quests. ADOM features deep character customization, turn-based combat, and a rich, dynamic story, making it a challenging and rewarding experience for players who enjoy strategy and exploration.
To install ADOM on Debian, RPM, and Arch-based Linux distributions, follow the steps below:
- Debian-based (e.g., Ubuntu, Debian, Linux Mint):Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo apt-get update sudo apt-get install adom
- RPM-based (e.g., Fedora, CentOS, RHEL):Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo dnf install adom
- Arch-based (e.g., Arch Linux, Manjaro):Open the terminal and enter the following commands:
sudo pacman -S adom
Once installed, simply type adom in the terminal to launch the game. Due to the complexity of the game, it’s highly recommended to consult the official ADOM website (https://www.adom.de/) and the ADOM wiki (http://www.adom.de/mediawiki/index.php/Main_Page) for tutorials, guides, and strategies to help you play and control the game effectively.
ADOM (Ancient Domains of Mystery) offers a deep and engaging gaming experience within the Linux terminal. Its vast, dynamic world, deep character customization, and challenging gameplay make it a popular choice for players seeking a classic roguelike experience with an expansive story. Compatible with a wide range of Linux distributions, ADOM provides a lasting challenge that can be enjoyed by users across the Linux community.
18. Curseradio
Curseradio is a terminal-based internet radio player for Linux that allows users to browse and listen to thousands of online radio stations worldwide. The program is written in Python and utilizes the popular MPV media player to stream audio. Curseradio features a simple, intuitive interface with a built-in directory of radio stations, making it easy for users to discover new music and radio content directly from the terminal.
To install Curseradio on Debian, RPM, and Arch-based Linux distributions, follow the steps below:
- Debian-based (e.g., Ubuntu, Debian, Linux Mint):First, install the MPV media player by entering the following commands:
sudo apt-get update sudo apt-get install mpv
Next, install Curseradio using the following commands:
sudo apt-get install python3-pip pip3 install curseradio
- RPM-based (e.g., Fedora, CentOS, RHEL):Install the MPV media player by entering the following commands:
sudo dnf install mpv
Install Curseradio using the following commands:
sudo dnf install python3-pip pip3 install curseradio
- Arch-based (e.g., Arch Linux, Manjaro):Install the MPV media player and Curseradio from the AUR (Arch User Repository) using an AUR helper such as
yayorparu. Enter the following commands:yay -S mpv curseradio-git
or
paru -S mpv curseradio-git
Once installed, simply type curseradio in the terminal to launch the program. Use the arrow keys to navigate the list of available radio stations and press ‘Enter’ to start streaming the selected station.
Curseradio provides a unique and convenient way to explore and listen to internet radio stations from around the world within the Linux terminal. Its simple interface, combined with the powerful MPV media player, makes it a popular choice for users seeking a lightweight, text-based radio player. Compatible with a wide range of Linux distributions, Curseradio is an excellent addition to any Linux user’s terminal toolkit.
19. Zork
Zork is a classic interactive fiction game for Linux, originally released in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The game is set in a vast underground world filled with dangerous creatures, hidden treasures, and challenging puzzles. Players interact with the game world by typing commands, and Zork responds with detailed text descriptions, creating an immersive storytelling experience. Zork’s rich world, engaging narrative, and text-based gameplay make it a timeless classic for fans of interactive fiction.
To install and play Zork on Debian, RPM, and Arch-based Linux distributions, follow the steps below:
- Install Frotz, an interpreter for Zork and other interactive fiction games, using the package manager for your Linux distribution:Debian-based (e.g., Ubuntu, Debian, Linux Mint):
sudo apt-get update sudo apt-get install frotz
RPM-based (e.g., Fedora, CentOS, RHEL):
sudo dnf install frotz
Arch-based (e.g., Arch Linux, Manjaro):
sudo pacman -S frotz
- Download the Zork data files from the Interactive Fiction Archive (http://www.ifarchive.org/indexes/if-archiveXgamesXzcode.html). Look for the files named “zork1.z5”, “zork2.z5”, and “zork3.z5”, which correspond to the three parts of the original Zork trilogy.
- Save the downloaded Zork data files to a directory of your choice.
- Launch Zork using the Frotz interpreter by typing the following command in the terminal, replacing “path/to/zork1.z5” with the actual path to the Zork data file:
frotz path/to/zork1.z5
Repeat step 4 with the appropriate Zork data file to play Zork II and Zork III.
Zork offers a deep and engaging gaming experience within the Linux terminal, transporting players to a world of adventure, exploration, and puzzle-solving through the power of text. Compatible with a wide range of Linux distributions, Zork remains a beloved classic that can be enjoyed by users across the Linux community, thanks to the Frotz interpreter and the continued availability of the game’s data files.
20. Empire
Empire is a classic terminal-based strategy game for Linux, originally released in the early 1980s. The game offers a turn-based, war simulation experience where players control cities, produce resources, and command military units to conquer the world. Empire features a simple ASCII map, allowing players to survey their territories and plan their moves. The game’s challenging strategy elements and text-based gameplay make it a timeless classic for fans of strategy and war games.
To install and play Empire on Debian, RPM, and Arch-based Linux distributions, follow the steps below:
- Install the Empire package using the package manager for your Linux distribution:Debian-based (e.g., Ubuntu, Debian, Linux Mint):
sudo apt-get update sudo apt-get install empire
RPM-based (e.g., Fedora, CentOS, RHEL):
sudo dnf install empire
Arch-based (e.g., Arch Linux, Manjaro):
Empire is available in the AUR (Arch User Repository). To install it, you need to have an AUR helper, such as yay or paru. Once you have an AUR helper installed, enter the following command:
yay -S empire
or
paru -S empire
- Once installed, simply type empire in the terminal to launch the game.
Empire offers a deep and engaging gaming experience within the Linux terminal, challenging players to strategize, manage resources, and command military forces to conquer the world. Its simple ASCII map, turn-based gameplay, and strategic depth make it a popular choice for players seeking a classic strategy experience. Compatible with a wide range of Linux distributions, Empire remains a beloved classic that can be enjoyed by users across the Linux community.
Conclusion
Terminal-based games offer a unique and engaging gaming experience for Linux users who appreciate the power and flexibility of the command line. The top 20 terminal games listed above cater to a wide range of interests, from classic arcade-style games like nSnake and MyMan to more complex and immersive experiences like Dwarf Fortress and NetHack. With their lightweight nature and compatibility with various Linux distributions, these games provide an enjoyable pastime that can be played without requiring extensive system resources.
So, the next time you’re looking for a break from your daily tasks or want to explore the world of command-line gaming, give these terminal games a try and rediscover the classic fun of the command line.
