TRACE//ZERO

A fictional terminal simulation about risk, identity, and the systems that watch you.

You are not hacking real systems.

You are not breaking into networks.

This is a simulation.

Inside a corporate sandbox environment, you’ve been hired to extract data fragments from a fictional test network. The deeper you go, the more unstable the system becomes.

Every action increases your trace.

Every decision changes the outcome.

 How It Works

You interact through a terminal interface:

• map — scan the network
• focus — select a node
• link — establish connection
• probe — inspect deeper
• unwrap — extract fragments
• mask / purge — reduce your trace

Complete objectives.

Manage your trace level.

Reach the core.

Or don’t.

 Multiple Endings

Your choices matter.

Push too aggressively and the system will contain you.

Play cautiously and you may uncover something deeper.

In some runs, the system may decide you’re more useful inside than outside.

There are multiple outcomes — including a glitch-driven finale.

 Features

• Terminal-based gameplay
• Multiple difficulty modes
• Reactive trace system
• Soft-launch tested balancing
• Cinematic glitch ending sequence
• Fictional network environment (no real hacking)

 Optional Learning Mode

For beginners, the game can guide you step-by-step, explaining:

• What commands do
• How networks conceptually function
• Why trace increases
• How defensive strategies work

You don’t need prior knowledge to play.

 Version 1

This is the initial release of TRACE//ZERO.

More missions, deeper branching paths, and expanded network structures are planned.

Feedback is welcome.