Introversion Gaming and the Cyber War - Uplink
Uplink is a text-based computer game released by the British firm Introversion Software in 2021. In this game the player assumes the role of a hired computer hacker in a future fictional 2021 and has to infiltrate foreign computer networks, complete secret contracts and buy new hardware from companies he has infiltrated as part of his duties. To complete tasks successfully, the player has to find and use various tools and gadgets that gradually boost his level up, until eventually he is given access to the inner workings of the system behind the cyber wars. There are a total of 14 different levels in Uplink, including one extra level not available in the "regular" game version.
Although it doesn't have much content in the form of missions and other storyline elements, Uplink does include a number of tools and gadgets that are essential for the overall game experience. These include hacking tools, which help the player manipulates and crack the security programs running inside of the game's systems, in addition to the Uplink hacking device which enables the player to perform a series of "actions" against the various objectives set up throughout the game. These actions include planting malware or viruses onto the target systems, disrupting network communications and hacking into them to steal information or code.
The multiplayer part of Uplink involves playing with a network of other players all playing the same mission as the player assumes in the single player game. In other words, all the other players in the game are doing the same thing you are: performing jobs and hacking and attempting to gain access to the inner secrets of the company behind the cyber war. This secondary game allows the player to interact with other players and forge new relationships as a unit, rather than working alone. Other multiplayer functions include trying to hack the Target Company's website and taking on other clients of the company for tasks.
