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About TIS-100
TIS-100 is an open‑ended programming puzzle game where players rewrite corrupted code segments to repair a fictional massively parallel computer. The game presents a 1980’s‑style manual that explains the system’s architecture and instruction set.
Beyond the core puzzles, TIS‑100 includes three sandboxes for custom challenges, a visual console for creating games inside the game, and online leaderboards that let you compare cycle, instruction, and node counts with friends and the world.
01 / THE GUIDE
Core puzzles
The main experience consists of more than 45 puzzles that require you to edit assembly‑like code to achieve a specified output. Each puzzle can be solved in many ways, and the game tracks how many cycles, instructions, and nodes your solution uses.
Solutions are judged on efficiency, encouraging players to refine their programs to lower those three metrics. The open‑ended nature means there is no single “correct” answer, only more optimal ones.
- Experiment with different instruction orders to see how cycle counts change.
- Compare your solution’s metrics against the leaderboard for inspiration.
02 / THE GUIDE
Level editor and sandboxes
TIS‑100 provides three sandboxes where you can design your own challenges, using the same instruction set as the main game. One sandbox includes a visual console that lets you build simple games inside TIS‑100.
These tools let players extend the experience beyond the supplied puzzles, creating custom challenges for personal practice.
- Start with a small sandbox project to learn the editor’s workflow.
- Use the visual console to test interactive ideas before committing to a full level.
03 / THE GUIDE
Reference manual
The game includes a printable reference manual that details the inner‑workings of the TIS‑100 architecture and its instruction set. The manual mimics the aesthetic of a 1980’s computer manual, adding thematic flavor.
Having the manual handy helps players understand node connections, data flow, and instruction behavior, which is essential for crafting efficient solutions.
- Keep the manual open while debugging complex puzzles.
- Refer to the manual when trying to reduce node usage.
04 / THE GUIDE
Steam leaderboards
TIS‑100 integrates Steam leaderboards that rank solutions based on cycle, instruction, and node counts. Players can submit their best solutions and see how they compare globally.
Leaderboards add a competitive layer, motivating players to revisit puzzles and optimize further to climb the rankings.
- Review top leaderboard entries to discover alternative optimization strategies.
- Aim for incremental improvements rather than perfect scores on first attempts.
05 / THE GUIDE
Platform support and features
TIS‑100 runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux via Steam, and supports Steam Cloud, achievements, and family sharing. These features allow progress to be saved across sessions and shared with household members.
The single‑player focus means all content is available without needing online multiplayer, while Steam achievements provide optional goals for completionists.
- Steam Cloud is available if you want your saved data synced across devices.
- Check the achievement list for optional challenges beyond the main puzzles.
COMMUNITY
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