cxong/cdogs-sdl
FreeClassic overhead run-and-gun game
FreeFree tier
About cxong/cdogs-sdl
C-Dogs SDL is a classic overhead run-and-gun game originally released as freeware for DOS and now ported to modern platforms using SDL2. It supports up to 4 players in cooperative and deathmatch modes, offers extensive player customization with many weapons, and includes over 100 user-created campaigns. The game is open source (GPLv2 for code, Creative Commons for assets), runs on Windows, Linux, and macOS, and can be easily installed via itch.io or built from source with SDL2 development libraries. It retains the addictive gameplay and pixel-art style of the original, while adding features like co-op AI, moddability, and enhanced multiplayer.
Key Features
Up to 4 players in cooperative and deathmatch modes
Player customization with multiple weapons
Over 100 user-created campaigns
Co-op AI for single-player or team play
Moddable with custom campaigns, maps, and graphics
Cross-platform on Windows, Linux, and macOS
Open source under GPLv2 and Creative Commons licenses
Retro pixel-art graphics and classic run-and-gun gameplay
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Free and open-source with permissive licensing
- Works on multiple operating systems (Windows, Linux, macOS)
- Supports up to 4 players locally for co-op or versus
- Large selection of user-created content (100+ campaigns)
- Extensive customization of player characters and weapons
- Active maintenance and community on GitHub
Cons
- Graphics are retro pixel-art, may not appeal to all modern gamers
- Requires SDL2 libraries for building from source if not using pre-built packages
- Original game is niche, with limited mainstream recognition
- Multiplayer is local only; no built-in online play
Best For
Playing cooperative run-and-gun campaigns with friendsEngaging in local multiplayer deathmatch battlesExploring and creating custom campaigns and modsEnjoying retro arcade-style gaming on modern systemsLearning about game development via open-source codebase
FAQ
What is C-Dogs SDL?
C-Dogs SDL is a classic overhead run-and-gun game, supporting up to 4 players in co-op and deathmatch modes. It is an open-source port of the original C-Dogs DOS game.
What platforms does C-Dogs SDL support?
It runs on Windows, Linux, and macOS. Other platforms may have unofficial ports.
How can I install C-Dogs SDL?
The easiest way is to download from itch.io. You can also build from source following the getting started wiki, which requires SDL2 development libraries.
What is the license for C-Dogs SDL?
Code is licensed under GPL version 2, with significant portions under BSD 2-clause. Data assets are licensed under CC0, CC-BY, or CC-BY-SA.
Does C-Dogs SDL support modding?
Yes, it supports moddability with custom campaigns, maps, and assets. Over 100 user-created campaigns are available.