Kinetype

Kinetype is a minimalist ASCII roguelite played entirely through typed keyboard commands. You navigate a procedurally generated terminal, collect what you can and try to reach the extraction point. Success earns Bytes, which you spend on permanent player upgrades and shop items. If you fail, you lose your current inventory and win streak, but keep your permanent progression for the next run.

Scavenge abilities

You claim abilities by moving over scavenged code fragments and typing their names as commands. The abilities include:

• ZAP: instantly deletes the closest enemy.
• BOMB: sets an explosive with a short fuse.
• MINE: deploys a proximity trap for enemies following you.
• SILENCE: stops all enemy movement for 20 steps.
• PING: shows a direct path to the exit.
• DASH: teleports you when you press TAB.

Additional commands can be discovered as you explore deeper sectors.

Face terminal threats

Hostile entities react to your movements, turning each run into a tactical, turn-based puzzle. The threats include:

• CHASER: tracks your coordinates across the grid.
• VIRUS: infects your trail of characters and drains the Bytes you have collected for extraction.
• BLINDER: corrupts your visual feed temporarily, making you type and execute commands by feel.
• FUSE: follows you like a Chaser, then triggers a catastrophic explosion when it nears your trail.

Choose your pace

By default, the world moves only when you type, giving you time to plan your route and manage abilities. Hardcore Mode removes this pause: enemies move on a timer if you are not fast enough with your keystrokes.

Customize the grid

You can play with a monochrome look, a classic green “Matrix” terminal or custom colour themes that you mod in.