NeonCore

Welcome to NeonCore - A Text-Based Cyberpunk RPG

Dive into the neon-soaked streets of Night City in this immersive text-based role-playing game. As a cyberpunk operative, navigate through a world of corporate intrigue, street-level conflicts, and high-tech warfare.

Features:

• Choose your role: Become a street-smart Netrunner, a combat-ready Solo, or other unique characters
• Deep character customization with detailed lifepaths and backgrounds
• Dynamic skill-based gameplay system
• Text-based exploration of Night City's various districts
• Engaging NPC interactions and encounters (Combat & Social)
• Command-line interface with cyberpunk aesthetic
• Detailed Life Path system including cultural regions, personality, and background

Built with Python, NeonCore delivers a classic RPG experience inspired by the Cyberpunk 2020 tabletop game system. Use your skills, cyber-enhancements, and street smarts to survive and thrive in the dark future of 2045.

Installation & Usage

Windows (PowerShell)

1. Setup Environment:

   python -m venv venv
   .\venv\Scripts\python.exe -m pip install --upgrade pip
   .\venv\Scripts\python.exe -m pip install -e .

2. Run NeonCore: Client-Server Mode (Default):

   .\play.ps1

   Starts the Game Server in the background and launches the Client.

   Standalone Mode:

   .\play.ps1 -Local

   Runs the game as a single monolithic process (useful for development/debugging).

   Note: play.ps1 automatically uses the virtual environment's Python, bypassing the need for manual activation scripts and avoiding common PowerShell permission errors.

Linux/MacOS

1. Setup:

   python3 -m venv venv
   source venv/bin/activate
   pip install -e .

2. Run:

   python run_game.py

AI & Architecture

Architecture

NeonCore utilizes a Client-Server architecture by default.

• Server: Handles game state, world simulation, and AI requests (server.py).
• Client: Handles UI and user input (client.py).
• Database (Concept): A decentralized Nostr relay system is planned for persistent world state and player communications, but is currently in conceptual phase.

AI Backend

The game requires an LLM to power the "Digital Soul" and NPC interactions.

1. Gemini (Recommended - Cloud)

   • Get API Key from Google AI Studio.
   • Set env var: GEMINI_API_KEY="your-key"
   • Default backend if key is present.

2. Ollama (Alternative - Local)

   • Install Ollama and pull a model (e.g., mistral).
   • Set env var: NEONCORE_AI_BACKEND="ollama" (or simply ensure GEMINI_API_KEY is not set).
   • Configurable in NeonCore/config.py.

In-Game Chat

1. Approach NPC: Type talk [NPC Name] (e.g., talk Lenard).
2. Chat: Just type natural text.

   You -> Lenard > Where is the money?
   Lenard: (Sweating) look, I don't have it all...
   

3. Commands: Type bye to exit, or take [item] to grab things mid-conversation.

Future Development Roadmap

To expand NeonCore into a more substantial text RPG (similar to Sindome), the following components would need to be developed:

1. Command System

   • More sophisticated command parser with aliases
   • Command help system with examples
   • Support for compound commands and macros

2. Game State Management

   • Proper database for persistent game state
   • Save/load functionality
   • Transaction system for atomic operations

3. World Model

   • Hierarchical location system (Implemented)
   • Dynamic environment with time-based events
   • Weather and environmental effects
   • Object interaction framework

4. Character System

   • More detailed character stats and progression
   • Skills system with advancement
   • Character customization (Life Path Implemented)
   • Inventory management

5. NPC System

   • Advanced NPC AI using ML models
   • Conversation and relationship tracking
   • NPC schedules and routines
   • Faction system with reputation

6. Combat System

   • Turn-based combat mechanics (Basic Implementation)
   • Weapon and armor simulation
   • Status effects and conditions
   • Tactical options (Cover implemented)

7. Quest System

   • Quest tracking and progression
   • Branching quest paths
   • Dynamic quest generation

8. User Interface Improvements

   • Color-coded output
   • Status bar/HUD elements
   • Mini-map visualization
   • Help system

9. Networking

   • Multi-user support
   • Chat/communication systems
   • Player interaction mechanics