Command Language for the MUD - wwestlake/Labyrinth GitHub Wiki

Command Language for the MUD

This document outlines the basic command language used in the MUD (Multi-User Dungeon). The command language allows players to interact with the game world, perform actions, and communicate with other players.

Command Structure

Commands in the MUD are typically short phrases or single words that represent an action the player wants their character to take. Commands can range from movement, interacting with objects, communication, combat, and more.

Basic Syntax

  • Verb Object: Most commands follow this simple structure, where the player types a verb (action) followed by an object (target of the action).
  • Example: go north, pick up sword, attack goblin

Movement Commands

Movement commands allow the player to navigate through the game world. These are typically one-word commands indicating a direction.

Command Description
north Move the character north
south Move the character south
east Move the character east
west Move the character west
up Move the character up
down Move the character down
go north Same as north (alternative)

Interaction Commands

These commands allow the player to interact with objects and the environment.

Command Description
look Look at your surroundings
look at [object] Examine a specific object or character
pick up [object] Pick up an object
drop [object] Drop an object
open [container] Open a container, such as a door or chest
close [container] Close a container
unlock [container] Unlock a locked container (if you have the key)
lock [container] Lock a container (if you have the key)
inventory Display items currently in your inventory

Communication Commands

These commands are used to communicate with other players or characters in the game.

Command Description
say [message] Send a message to everyone in the room
whisper [player] [message] Send a private message to another player
shout [message] Send a message to everyone in the game (if allowed)
emote [action] Perform an action visible to others (e.g., emote waves)

Combat Commands

Combat commands are used to engage in combat with NPCs (non-player characters) or other players.

Command Description
attack [target] Attack a specified target
flee Attempt to flee from combat
cast [spell] [target] Cast a spell at a target (if applicable)
defend Take a defensive stance to reduce damage

Example Commands in Use

Here are a few examples of how commands might be used in the game:

  1. Moving around:

    • north - The player moves north.
    • go south - The player moves south.
  2. Interacting with objects:

    • look at door - The player examines the door.
    • open chest - The player opens a chest.
    • pick up sword - The player picks up a sword.
  3. Communicating:

    • say Hello everyone! - The player says "Hello everyone!" to everyone in the room.
    • whisper John Let's meet at the tavern. - The player sends a private message to John.
  4. Combat:

    • attack goblin - The player attacks a goblin.
    • cast fireball goblin - The player casts a fireball spell at the goblin.

Additional Notes

  • Command Aliases: Many commands have aliases or alternative forms (e.g., north and go north perform the same action).
  • Command Chaining: Some MUDs allow chaining commands using a semicolon (;), e.g., north; open door; go east.
  • Custom Commands: Players might be able to define custom macros or shortcuts for frequently used command sequences.

This command language forms the basis of interaction within the MUD, allowing players to navigate, interact, communicate, and engage in combat seamlessly within the game world.