ZapM

ZapM
Beta Project
Developer	Cyrus Dolph
Theme	Science Fiction
Influences	Nethack
Released	2004 Jul 02 (v0.6.2)
Updated	2010 Jan 05 (beta 0.8.1)
Licensing	Freeware
P. Language
Platforms	Windows, Linux, Mac OS X
Interface	ASCII
Game Length	~120 minutes
Official site of ZapM

ZapM is a science fiction roguelike game by Cyrus Dolph. It's his humble attempt to create "the sci-fi Nethack".

The player controls the actions of a would-be hero exploring a derelict space hulk in search of a fabled artifact, the Bizarro Orgasmatron.

Game items are futuristic versions of their fantasy setting analogs (potions become canisters, wands become ray guns, etc.), but several mechanisms are innovative. Monsters present in ZapM include grid bugs, droids, klingons, aliens, and Unix daemons.

Available classes are: Psion, Quarterback, Software Engineer, Space Marine, and Janitor.

Unique features

• Floppy disks work similarly to scrolls but can be used several times until license expiration. A cracked floppy may be used indefinitely. One needs a computer to execute a floppy disk program. Beware, buggy computers may eat disks! Give it back you rusty pile of junk!
• ZapM implements bionic implants which can be installed in brain lobes to enchance body functions.
• Spells (mutant powers) work as unusual abilities of body (and rely on charisma stat) rather than as learned knowledge. One way to gain a mutant power is to drink filthy mutagenic liquid from a vat and hope for a beneficial result.

Resources

The ZAPM Guidebook