GhostSys – Demo
🕹️ A Retro Puzzle Defence Prototype in BASIC
Welcome to this deep dive into GhostSys, a retro-inspired puzzle defence prototype crafted with classic DOS aesthetics and built entirely in BASIC. This experimental project merges nostalgic charm with simple but engaging mechanics – and lays the groundwork for future builds.
💡 The Concept
Originally inspired by “WarSim: The Realm of Aslona”, I wanted to explore what lower-level programming languages like BASIC could still offer when combined with modern design principles. Instead of kingdoms, the battlefield is your terminal: a rogue AI corrupts the file system, spawning junk files in random directories. If left unchecked, the system collapses.
The objective? Use command line navigation to locate and shut down the rogue process before file counts exceed critical thresholds. The game’s layout is randomized every session – keeping each attempt fresh and unpredictable, (this is limit in demo for test purposes).
System & Architecture
- Single .bas file compatible with both QB64 and Community QBasic
- No advanced functions – just clean structure and modular design
- Each function compartmentalized for simplicity and clarity
- Session states and file structures randomized for testing flexibility
🖥️ UI & Design Highlights
- Command-line style navigation using text-based input (DIR, CD, TYPE)
- HELP command lists all available options
- Colour-coded output messages, with animated transitions where needed
- “Start Screen” mimics a BIOS page with intro animations
- Winning sequence plays an audio cue upon successful shutdown
- ASCII titles created using ASCIIDecorator – a Visual Studio Code extension
🔧 Community QBasic Setup
For those curious to try it themselves, the project runs smoothly in:
- Community QBasic via DOSBox Staging 0.81.0.0
- QBasic 1.1 EN for editing and execution (QBasic.exe ghostsys.bas)
No plugins, no complexity – just open the file and run.
In the Showcase Video
The accompanying video walks through two gameplay demos, with a quick look at the code:
- Reviewing the code in Visual Studio Code
- Running the code in QB64 with clearer visuals (full screen)
- Launching in Community QBasic for that classic DOS feel
The video concludes with a structured diagram that outlines the project’s logic flow and key components, (see below).
🚀 What’s Next?
While this is only a prototype, it’s a springboard to bigger ideas. Whether it’s building out deeper file system mechanics, introducing puzzles and adversarial AI, or expanding into full-blown story mode – the foundation is solid.
Thanks for reading! If you love retro computing, puzzle games, or just inventive uses of old tech, this one’s for you.
The latest code can be found here on GitHub: SaharaHex/GhostSys-Demo
SaharaHex 