Hacker
- Designer Steve Jackson (I)
- Publisher Steve Jackson Games
- Illustration John Dismukes , Heather Oliver , Jeffrey K. Starling
Track your results with Playnexi
Add this game to your collection and track sessions, scores, and statistics.
Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Hacker, players play cards into an expanding network in the center, aiming to break into systems and gain root access. You upgrade hacking tools, negotiate with other players, and avoid ICE and law enforcement raids. The game demands strategic thinking and player interaction as you compete for control over root access sites.
Who Is This Game For?
The game targets experienced players aged 14 and up interested in political card games. With a playtime of about 120 minutes, it suits longer sessions and requires tactical planning. It is more a gamer’s game than an entry-level title.
How It Works
Hacker is a card game where players collectively build a network by playing cards in the center. Players use tokens to hack systems and gain root access. You can upgrade tools, trade access with others, and overcome challenges like ICE. The goal is to control the most root access locations.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Steve Jackson (I), Hacker won the 1992 Origins Award for Best Modern-Day Boardgame. It stands out with its shared network card system and is inspired by a real-life 1990 Secret Service raid on Steve Jackson Games. It belongs to the 'Theme: Hackers' family.
Awards
- 1992 Origins Awards Best Modern-Day Boardgame — Winner
Pro
- Theme based on real computer crime events
- 1992 Origins Award winner for Best Modern-Day Boardgame
- Interactive card game with shared network
- Suitable for 2 to 6 players
Contra
- No detailed mechanics make learning harder
- Playtime of 120 minutes is quite long
- Requires experience with political card games
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is themed around computer crime and hacking in the early 1990s, inspired by the real 1990 Secret Service raid on Steve Jackson Games.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to understand the network interaction and watch other players closely.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Hacker is designed for 2 to 6 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
The game lasts about 120 minutes, making it a longer session.
What prior experience do I need?
It targets experienced players aged 14+ interested in political card games.
How does this compare to similar games?
Hacker uses a shared network card system which differentiates it from other political card games.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and political theme, it is more suited for gamers than families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The core mechanic is playing cards into a shared, expanding network.
Fazit
Hacker is recommended for players seeking political card games with strong interaction. Its longer playtime and complex theme may deter casual gamers.
