Interrupt/systemshock
FreeShockolate - A minimalist and cross platform System Shock source port.
FreeFree tier
About Interrupt/systemshock
Shockolate is a minimalist and cross-platform source port of the classic game System Shock, built on SDL2 and based on the source code released by Night Dive Studios. It runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux, aiming to deliver an experience similar to the original while adding quality-of-life improvements such as an OpenGL renderer, WASD movement controls, and mod support. The project is open-source and community-driven, with ongoing development to revive missing features not included in the original release.
Key Features
Cross-platform support (Windows, macOS, Linux)
Built on SDL2 for portability
OpenGL renderer for modern graphics
Modding support: load custom .res and .dat files
WASD movement and mouselook toggle (F key)
Command line parameter -nosplash to skip splash screens
Hotkeys: Ctrl+G cycles graphics modes, Ctrl+F fullscreen, Ctrl+D disable fullscreen
Supports original CD-ROM or System Shock Enhanced Edition assets
Available as prebuilt packages or build from source via CMake
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Fully open source with active community development
- Faithful recreation aiming to mimic the original gameplay
- Quality-of-life improvements like modern controls and OpenGL
- Mod-friendly: supports additional resources and missions
- Runs on all major desktop platforms
Cons
- Requires original game assets (CD-ROM or SS:EE), not playable standalone
- Some original features are still missing due to incomplete source code release
- Floppy disk asset version not supported
- Still in development; some bugs or incomplete functionality
Best For
Playing the original System Shock on modern operating systemsRunning fan-made missions and modsPreserving and experiencing the classic game with improved controls and graphics
FAQ
What is Shockolate?
Shockolate is a minimalist, cross-platform source port of System Shock, based on the PowerPC source code released by Night Dive Studios. It aims to provide a portable, faithful experience with modern enhancements.
What do I need to run Shockolate?
You need the original CD-ROM or System Shock Enhanced Edition assets placed in a 'res' and 'data' folder next to the executable. Floppy disk assets are not supported.
How can I install Shockolate?
You can download prebuilt packages for Linux, Mac, and Windows from the releases page, or build from source using CMake after installing dependencies.
Can I use mods with Shockolate?
Yes, Shockolate supports loading mods and fan missions. Point the executable at a mod file or folder to load additional .res and .dat files for resources and missions.
What are the default controls?
Movement uses WASD, F toggles mouselook, and Q/E are used for leaning. Additional hotkeys include Ctrl+G (cycle graphics), Ctrl+F (fullscreen), and Ctrl+D (disable fullscreen).