Breach networks, plant malware, steal secrets, and outsmart digital defenses in a real-time strategy campaign that teaches cybersecurity through immersive, hands-on gameplay—no experience or skills needed!
Release Date:
August 2025
Developer:
Publisher:
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Coming Soon To Early Access

The developers of this game intend to release as a work in progress, developing with the feedback of players.

Note: Games in Early Access are not complete and may or may not change further. If you are not excited to play this game in its current state, then you should wait to see if the game progresses further in development. Learn more

What the developers have to say:

Why Early Access?

“Hack Back is a free side project of mine to teach the world about cybersecurity concepts in a fun and engaging way. As a side project, I cannot invest significant time into it, so I've built out the initial storyline and campaign level(s) and am opening up the game to feedback. If I get under 500 downloads, I will probably stop development. If I get thousands of downloads and tons of requests to continue development, then I will likely continue building out the rest of the game.”

Approximately how long will this game be in Early Access?

“I plan to leave Hack Back in Early Access mode for about a year.”

How is the full version planned to differ from the Early Access version?

“I plan to release one or two campaign levels initially during Early Access, then if that goes well, I would like to release a full campaign of about 8 total levels. At that point, if the game is very successful, I would consider building out an online multiplayer version, similar to Starcraft.”

What is the current state of the Early Access version?

“Level 1 is currently fully playable.”

Will the game be priced differently during and after Early Access?

“The game is free, and I don't plan to charge for it.”

How are you planning on involving the Community in your development process?

“I plan to read all comments carefully to absorb feedback, and I will monitor ratings and downloads and other stats to gauge interest in further development and expansion. I plan to incorporate feedback directly into the game, assuming it aligns accurately with real-world cybersecurity principles. The best way to get involved with the development of the game is to reach out via comments or my linked URLs.”
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Planned Release Date: August 2025

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About This Game

Hack Back is a real-time strategy game that teaches offensive and defensive cybersecurity concepts through intuitive, hands-on gameplay. No textbooks, no terminals, and no prior experience required—just jump in and start hacking. As you command your team through an engaging campaign, you’ll infiltrate networks, deploy malware, defend infrastructure, and outsmart corporate adversaries in a battle for digital dominance.

Learn by doing as you uncover the story of a rogue hacker who turns against the very megacorp they once served. Each mission introduces real-world cyber principles—like DDoS attacks, intrusion detection, and lateral movement—presented in a way that's approachable, fast-paced, and fun.

Key Features:

  • Simple Cybersecurity Learning: Grasp complex concepts through gameplay—no coding or tech skills required.

  • RTS Meets Cyber Warfare: Generate resources, launch attacks, build defenses, and adapt in real-time.

  • Story-Driven Campaign: Follow the journey of a hacker-turned-hero across 8 immersive missions.

  • Unique Units & Abilities: Deploy hackers, engineers, and defenders—each with special powers.

  • Multiplayer Skirmishes (future): Test your skills against other players in head-to-head cyber battles.

  • Pixel Art Visuals & UI: Enjoy the simple beauty of GameBoy era art.

Whether you're a gamer curious about cybersecurity or a cyber pro looking for a relatable world, Hack Back offers a fresh, strategic spin on what it means to learn, play, and win.

AI Generated Content Disclosure

The developers describe how their game uses AI Generated Content like this:

I use AI to aid in development and marketing. All art is sourced from legitimate online creators.

System Requirements

Windows
macOS
    Minimum:
    • OS: Windows 10
    Minimum:
    • OS: OS X
* Starting February 15, 2024, the Steam Client will no longer support 32-bit games or macOS 10.14 or lower.
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