User Guide

Overview

Diegetic Simulators builds real-time terminal props and reference libraries for tabletop RPGs and interactive fiction. Build multi-column button layouts, sync state across players, and run doors, audio, video, maps, keypads, and more.

This guide covers both Cloud Edition (browser, hosted) and Desktop Edition (Windows app, local LAN sessions). Use the sidebar to jump to your edition, or read Cloud vs Desktop first if you are not sure which you use.

Getting Started (Cloud)

1. Sign up with your email and verify it (verified emails are required for security).
2. Open the Dashboard and create your first terminal.
3. Invite operators on the Operators tab, assign them to terminals, then set permissions in Manage Access while running a session.

Dashboard (Cloud)

The cloud dashboard is your control center for terminals, profile, security, and billing.

• Terminals: Create, open, reorder, and delete terminals. Use Operators on each card to assign your roster.
• Databases: Create and manage databases, a separate tab beside Terminals. Terminals and databases share one plan limit.
• Operators: Invite co-GMs once by email, assign them to any terminals, and manage default access levels.
• Shared With Me: Terminals hosts have assigned you to.
• Leave: Remove yourself from a shared terminal (the host can re-share later).
• Profile & Security: Account settings and MFA.
• Billing: Subscription status and plan changes.

Operators & Access (Cloud)

Cloud Edition no longer uses per-terminal email invites. You maintain one operator roster per host account, then choose which terminals each operator can open.

Operator roster (Dashboard → Operators)

• Invite once: Add an operator by email from the Operators tab. They must already have a Computer Terminal account.
• Default access: When inviting, choose Cannot Access , Can View , or Can Operate . This default applies to every terminal you assign that operator to (you can still fine-tune per terminal in Manage Access).
• Assign Access: Use Assign Access on an operator row, or Operators on a terminal or database card in My Terminals / My Databases. Demo terminals cannot be assigned.
• Shared With Me: Operators see terminals a host has assigned them to under this dashboard section.
• Leave: Operators can remove themselves from a terminal assignment; the host can re-assign later.
• Revoke access: Remove an operator from your roster entirely, or unassign them from specific terminals.

During a live session

• Session follow: While an operator has a terminal open, they automatically follow when the host switches to another terminal they are assigned to. Databases are the exception: readers there are never moved.
• Manage Access (terminal menu, host only): Set Can Operate , Can View , or Cannot Access for each assigned operator on this terminal. This does not invite new people — use the Operators tab for that. A database offers only Can Operate and Cannot Access, plus a per-operator Available Offline tick.
• Lock when host is away: Optional setting in Manage Access. When enabled, operators cannot use the terminal unless the host has it open. Databases handle this per operator instead, via the Available Offline column.
• When host leaves: Manage Access can reset everyone to the same permission level, or leave each operator's setting as-is.

Security — MFA (Cloud)

• TOTP MFA: Enable multi-factor authentication with a mobile authenticator app.
• Email verification: Required before accessing protected features.

Getting Started (Desktop)

1. Install Diegetic Simulators Desktop and activate your license.
2. Sign in with the same account you use on the website (for license sync).
3. On the Operators tab, add your players’ character names (one global list, stable IDs).
4. On each terminal, click Assign operators to choose who can join that terminal.
5. Open a terminal on your PC to start the live session.
6. Share your join link with players. See the dedicated How Players Connect page for LAN and remote setup.

Dashboard (Desktop)

The desktop dashboard tabs:

• Terminals: Create, open, edit, delete, and reorder terminals stored locally on your PC.
• Assign operators: Per-terminal checkbox list from your global Operators roster.
• Operators: Global player roster — add names, view IDs, assign terminals, delete operators.
• Media Library: Images, audio, and video on your machine (no cloud quota; limited by disk space).
• License: Refresh and verify your desktop license.
• About: Version info and links to help.

Operators & LAN Sessions (Desktop)

Desktop uses a global Operators pool . Each operator has a permanent ID used on every terminal they are assigned to — so “Imogen” is the same person whether you run the Bridge terminal or the Engine Room.

Operators tab

• Add operators: Enter a display name (2–32 characters, unique in your roster).
• ID column: Stable UUID for each operator — copy if you need it for debugging.
• Assign terminals: Checkbox modal to pick which terminals include this operator on the join list.
• Delete: Removes the operator everywhere and disconnects them if connected.

Running a session

• Only the terminal you have open in the desktop app is the live session.
• Players visit /join , pick their operator from the dropdown, and enter the terminal (no sign-in).
• If you switch terminals , players assigned to the new terminal follow automatically; others are disconnected and must re-join.
• Optional join code: set on the host server for extra protection (see connection guide ).

Media Library

The Media Library stores images, audio, and (on Desktop) video for use in terminal buttons. Upload once and reuse across terminals.

Cloud: Files live in cloud storage; quota depends on your subscription plan. Desktop: Files are stored on your PC under the app’s local data folder; usage is limited by disk space, not a subscription quota.

Storage Quota (Cloud)

• Storage limits: Your plan determines your available storage. Check the Subscription tab to see your current limit.
• Usage indicator: The Media Library displays a progress bar showing your storage usage. If you're near your limit (90%+), you'll see a warning with an option to upgrade.
• Upgrade: Running out of storage? Upgrade your subscription to increase your media storage limit.

Uploading Files

• Supported formats:
• Images: JPG, PNG, WebP (maximum 20MB per file)
• Audio: MP3, WAV, OGG, M4A, AAC (maximum 50MB per file)
• Video: MP4, WebM, MOV, MKV (maximum 50MB per file). Use the YouTube Video button for larger clips.
• How to upload: Click the "Upload Files" button and select one or more files from your computer.
• Bulk upload: You can select multiple files at once to upload them together.
• Storage full: If you've reached your storage limit, the upload button will be disabled until you delete files or upgrade your plan.

Managing Your Files

• View details: Click any file card to see its full details, including type, format, size, and upload date.
• Custom names: In the file details view, you can assign a custom display name to replace the original filename (optional).
• Tags: Tag files for easy organization (e.g., "Sound Theme" for sound files).
• Usage tracking: The library shows where each file is being used. If a file is used in button(s), you'll see a count in the file card and details modal.

Filtering & Sorting

• Filter by type: Quickly find images or audio files using the Type dropdown.
• Filter by tags: Use the Tags dropdown to display only files with specific labels (e.g., "Sound Theme").
• Sort options: Sort files by newest/oldest upload date, name (A-Z), or size (largest first).

Selecting & Deleting Files

• Select individual files: Hover over a file card to see a checkbox, then click it to select.
• Select all visible files: Use the "Select All" checkbox in the filter panel to select all filtered files at once.
• Bulk delete: After selecting file(s), click "Delete" to remove them.
• Delete warning: If a file is used in buttons, you'll see a warning. Deleting the file will remove it from those buttons automatically.
• Custom sound themes: If a file is used in custom sound theme configurations, you'll see a detailed warning listing which themes will be affected. You can still delete the file; the affected themes will need to be updated to use a different audio file.

Audio Preview

• Play audio: Click on an audio file to open its details, then use the Play button to preview it before using in your terminals.
• Playback controls: The audio player shows waveform visualization and standard play/pause controls.

Using the Terminal

• Real-Time: Button presses and state changes sync live across all connected operators.
• Buttons: Configure multi-state actions like toggles, lock screen, open docs, or play videos.
• Lock Screen: Hosts can lock/unlock. If configured, terminals auto-lock when the host leaves.
• Host vs Operator: Hosts control configuration. Operators interact as permitted.
• Atmosphere & Countdown: Hosts with operate permission can run live atmosphere scenes, macros, and synced countdown timers (see Atmosphere & Countdown ).

Terminal Menu Options

The terminal menu (accessible via the menu icon in the terminal interface) provides several tools for customization, access control, and terminal management. Some options are host-only.

Terminal Settings

• Host only: Yes. Only the terminal host can change terminal options.
• On a database: The same menu item and modal are titled Database Settings , with identical options.
• What it does: Opens a panel where you choose a visual preset and display effects:
  • Visual presets: Classic, Alien, Spaceship, Horror, Retro, Cyberpunk, Military, Synthwave, and Arctic — each bundles colors, font, door style, and default sound theme
  • CRT intensity: Off, Light, or Heavy scanline overlay
  • Weather effects: Rain, Snow, Storm, Wind, or Fog — WebGL overlay rendered on top of the terminal screen. Rain and Storm simulate drops landing on the glass at an angle, with concentric ripple rings on impact.
  • Boot sequence: Optional startup animation on terminal load (once per browser session)
  • Industrial bezel: Optional heavy frame around the terminal screen
  • Door style and sound theme
• Real-time: Changes apply instantly in the preview and sync to all connected users when saved.
• Persistence: Terminal options are saved on the terminal and load for every user who opens it.

View Legend

• Available to: All operators (host and operators).
• What it does: Displays a quick reference guide showing button labels, colors, and their meanings. Helpful for new operators to understand what each button does.
• Note: The legend reflects the current terminal configuration and updates if the host modifies buttons.

Manage Access

• Host only: Yes. Only the terminal host can manage who has access.
• Cloud Edition: Set Can Operate , Can View , or Cannot Access for operators already on your roster and assigned to this terminal. Invite and assign operators from the dashboard Operators tab. See Operators & Access (Cloud) .
• Desktop Edition: Set Can Operate , Can View , or Cannot Access for each operator who joined from your roster. See Manage Access (Desktop) .
• Real-time effect: Permission changes apply immediately; removed or blocked users are disconnected if they are viewing the terminal.

Personal Notes

• Available to: All operators (host and operators).
• What it does: Opens a private notepad where you can jot down session notes, reminders, or observations during gameplay.
• Privacy: Your notes are private — not shared with other operators in the session.
• Persistence: Notes are saved to your account and sync across devices where you are signed in (cloud and desktop host).

Reset Terminal

• Host only: Yes. Only the terminal host can reset the terminal.
• What it does: Resets all button states to their default values. This includes:
• Clearing toggle selections (all toggles return to their default/off state).
• Resetting any ephemeral state (e.g., open popups, active media).
• Does not affect: Terminal configuration (buttons, theme, shared operators) or personal notes.
• Real-time: The reset syncs immediately to all connected operators.
• Use case: Start a fresh session without recreating the terminal.

Fullscreen

• Available to: All operators (host and operators).
• What it does: Toggles fullscreen mode for an immersive, distraction-free experience.
• How to exit: Press the Esc key or use the browser's fullscreen exit control (usually at the top of the screen).
• Browser note: Fullscreen requires operator interaction (a click) and may be blocked by some browsers or extensions. If fullscreen doesn't engage, check your browser settings.
• Personal preference: Each operator can toggle fullscreen independently—it does not affect other operators' view.

Sound Effects

• Available to: All operators (host and operators).
• What it does: Toggles sound effects on/off for button interactions (click, toggle, locked, modal, etc.).
• Sound themes: Operators can choose from multiple sound effect themes in the theme customization panel.
• Mute control: Each operator can independently mute/unmute sound effects from the terminal menu—this does not affect other operators.
• Browser note: Modern browsers may require an initial operator interaction before audio can play. If you don't hear sounds, click anywhere on the terminal first.
• Edit mode: Sound effects are automatically disabled in edit mode to prevent distractions while configuring your terminal.

Atmosphere & Countdown

Hosts with operate permission can control live terminal atmosphere and countdown timers from the header toolbar (between Lock and the menu). Changes sync in real time to every connected operator.

Atmosphere Panel

• Host / operate only: Yes. Operators without operate permission cannot open atmosphere controls.
• Open: Click the globe icon in the terminal header. The panel is draggable — drag the header to reposition it.
• Quick scenes: One-click presets (e.g. Warning, Critical, Clear) that apply atmosphere, glitch, signal degradation, CRT intensity, and optional sound for a set duration or until cleared.
• Macros: Named, reusable scene recipes you can edit, reorder, and fire with one click. Macros can optionally start a countdown when fired (configure hours, minutes, seconds, and expiry action in the macro editor).
• Clear live effects: Use Clear all in the panel to fade out active atmosphere, glitch, and related display effects.

Countdown Timer

• Host / operate only: Only the host (or an operator with operate permission) can start, pause, extend, or stop a countdown.
• Configure: Click the stopwatch icon in the header to open the countdown modal. Set hours, minutes, and seconds, choose what happens on expiry, then press Start . The modal is draggable.
• On screen: While running, everyone sees a large synced countdown on the terminal screen. In the final 10 seconds, a tick sound plays every half second (respects each user's mute setting).
• Host controls: While a timer is active, the host sees a small draggable control dock (pause, +1m, +5m, stop) anchored inside the terminal screen.
• Hotkey: Press T (host only) to start a countdown with your saved defaults, or stop a running/paused timer.
• From a macro: Edit a macro in the Atmosphere panel, enable Start countdown when macro fires , and set duration and expiry. Firing the macro runs the scene and starts the timer.

When the Countdown Expires

The host chooses one of three expiry actions when starting the timer (or per macro):

• Shutdown: Reverse boot-style power-down animation and CRT fade, with a power-down sound.
• Break: Full-screen glass-shatter effect with shatter sound.
• Explode: Full-screen overload/explosion effect with explosion sound.

All three paths end the same way: a brief full-black pause, then the terminal locks for operators (the host can keep working and sees the lock banner). Use Lock or your access settings if you want operators to stay unlocked after a timer ends.

Keyboard Shortcuts

Use keyboard shortcuts to quickly access common functions without reaching for the mouse. Press ? in the terminal to view a quick reference.

General Shortcuts

• ? - Open keyboard shortcuts help (this displays in the terminal)
• Esc - Close the menu or exit fullscreen
• M - Toggle the terminal menu
• F - Toggle fullscreen mode for an immersive experience

Navigation & Information

• N - Open Personal Notes (for session notes and reminders)
• G - View the Legend (button reference guide)

host-Only Shortcuts

• E - Toggle Edit Mode (only available to terminal hosts; allows configuration of buttons and settings)
• L - Lock/Unlock the terminal (only available to terminal hosts; control access for operators)
• T - Start or stop the countdown timer using your saved defaults (host only; see Atmosphere & Countdown )

Export / Import

Hosts can export a terminal's or database's configuration to a JSON file and import it into another terminal/database or account. This is ideal for backing up or sharing setups between campaigns.

Export a Terminal or Database

• Host only : You must host the terminal or database.
• Open the terminal menu (three dots) → Import / Export Terminal (or Import / Export Database ) → Export tab.
• Optionally include the theme (Pro/Premium only).
• Download the {name}_terminal_export.json or {name}_database_export.json file. The file name and an internal tag both record which type it came from.

Import a Terminal or Database

• Host only : Open a destination terminal or database you host.
• Terminal menu → Import / Export Terminal (or Import / Export Database ) → Import tab → select the exported JSON.
• Review the preview: which type it was exported from, button count, and theme presence.
• Confirm import to overwrite the destination's buttons and layout.

Terminals and Databases are not interchangeable

A file exported from a Terminal cannot be imported into a Database, and a file exported from a Database cannot be imported into a Terminal. The importer checks the file's recorded type against the destination and refuses the import if they don't match, showing an error instead of silently dropping content. This exists because the two document types support different features: doors are disabled in a Database, and security protocols/encryption don't apply there either , since no host is present to adjudicate a failed attempt. A Terminal export built around those features has nothing useful to hand to a Database.

Files exported before this check existed have no recorded type and are treated as Terminal exports, so they will fail to import into a Database.

Sound Themes

Customize the audio feedback for clicks, toggles, and modals with selectable sound themes. This complements the Sound Effects toggle in the terminal menu.

Choose a sound theme

• Open the terminal menu → Theme .
• Select a Sound Effect Theme and click Save.
• Changes apply instantly for all operators.

Button types & states

Terminals support several button types. All button activity is synchronized in real-time, so everyone sees the same state at the same time. If the terminal is locked, operator buttons are disabled until The host unlocks.

Attachment buttons

• What it does: Lets operators download files you've attached — character sheets, handouts, maps, rules excerpts, or any other reference material.
• Setup: Host creates an Attachment button and uploads or selects one or more files from their Media Library. Supported file types: PDF, PNG/JPG/WEBP/GIF images, Word documents (DOC/DOCX), and plain text (TXT). You can add a custom title for each file and descriptive notes for the button.
• Operator experience: Operators click the button to see the list of attached files. Clicking a file downloads it to their device.
• Multiple files: An Attachment button can hold several files at once (useful for a set of handouts or a character sheet plus its reference sheets).
• Encryption: Attachment buttons support the same encryption system as other button types (see Encrypted Buttons below) — while locked, the file list and download links are withheld entirely, not just hidden.

Audio buttons

• What it does: Plays audio files for operators, such as background music, sound cues, ambient effects, or narrative voiceovers.
• Setup: Host creates an Audio button and selects one or more audio files from their Media Library. You can add custom titles for each audio track and descriptive notes that operators will see when they play the audio.
• Operator experience: Operators click the button to open the audio player modal. The player displays the button label, any host notes, and each audio track with waveform visualization and standard controls: play/pause for each track. Operators can listen to the audio and close the modal to return to the terminal.
• Multiple audio tracks: An audio button can contain multiple audio files (useful for music mixes, sound effect variations, or multiple narration options). Each track has its own play/pause control and waveform visualization. Operators select which track to play independently.
• Waveform visualization: Each audio track displays a waveform in the player, making it easy to see the audio structure and navigate to specific points during playback.
• Custom titles: You can set a custom title for each audio file (displayed in the player). If no custom title is set, the original filename is displayed.
• Host notes: Add descriptive notes that appear at the top of the audio player for context or instructions (visible to all operators who view this button).
• Audio policies: Modern browsers require operator interaction to unlock audio playback. If audio doesn't play, try clicking on the page first, check system volume, and verify browser/site audio permissions.
• Real-time: Play, pause, and stop sync across all connected operators in Cloud Edition and Desktop LAN sessions. Each operator can still mute sound effects locally from the terminal menu.

Door buttons

• What it does: Simulates an interactive door with two toggles: one to open/close the door and one to lock/unlock it. The door includes visual feedback and smooth animations.
• Setup: Host enables the "Door" button type when creating/editing the button and selects a door style. The door starts in a default state (closed and unlocked).
• Door styles: Choose from three distinct visual styles:
  • Default: Sliding double doors that open from the center
  • Hinged: A realistic hinged door with a handle and lock mechanism that swings open
  • Metal Sliding: Industrial metal sliding doors that separate horizontally
• Operator experience: Operators (and host) can click two icons on the door: the left icon toggles the door open/closed; the right icon toggles the lock on/off. If the door is locked, it cannot be opened until unlocked. Visual animations show the door opening, closing, locking, and unlocking in real-time.
• Door lock mechanics: A locked door cannot be opened. Operators must unlock it first. Once unlocked, the door can be opened freely. The lock state is visually represented (e.g., lock knob position, bar placement) depending on the door style.
• Customization: You can set a custom name for the door button (e.g., "Iron Gate", "Lab Door").
• Sound effects: Door buttons include immersive sci-fi sound effects:
  • Door open/close sounds: Different sounds depending on the door style (metal sliding doors have horizontal movement sounds, default sliding doors have vertical movement sounds)
  • Lock/unlock sounds: Distinct locking and unlocking sound effects (reversed when unlocking) for default and metal sliding doors
  • Mute control: Operators can mute door sounds from the terminal menu (Sound Effects toggle)
  • Session sync: When one operator opens, closes, or locks a door, the sound plays on every connected client (unless that player has muted sound effects).
• Enhanced animations (WebGL): Menu → Terminal Settings → Doors → "Enhanced door animations (WebGL)". When enabled, all door styles render through a WebGL canvas instead of the default CSS animation. Purely visual — open/close/lock behavior is unchanged.
• Alien RPG skill check: When an Alien RPG game is active (see Game Systems → Alien RPG ), a door can require a Force or Bypass check to open. See that section for details.
• Real-time: Door state (open/closed) and lock state (locked/unlocked) are synchronized across all operators. Changes made by one operator are instantly visible to everyone.

Google Docs/Sheets buttons

• What it does: Opens a Google Docs or Google Sheets document for operators in an embedded viewer.
• Setup: Host provides the share URL for a Google Docs or Sheets file when creating/editing the button.
• Operator experience: Operators click the button to view the document embedded in a modal or (depending on settings) open it in a new tab.
• Access requirements: The shared document's permissions settings must allow access for the viewer link to work. If access is restricted, operators may not see the content.
• Real-time: Changes made to the source document are reflected immediately for all operators viewing it.

Image buttons

• What it does: Displays a gallery of images or illustrations to operators in an interactive image viewer. Useful for character art, maps, diagrams, concept art, or reference material.
• Setup: Host creates an Image button and selects one or more images from their Media Library. You can optionally add custom titles for each image and notes for the gallery.
• Operator experience: Operators click the button to open the image gallery modal. The gallery displays images in a grid layout. Clicking an image opens a lightbox viewer with zoom, pan, and full-screen controls. Operators can navigate between images and close the viewer to return to the terminal.
• Image management: If you update images in the Media Library (custom titles, deletion, etc.), changes are reflected immediately for all operators when they view the gallery next.
• Custom titles: When adding images to the button, you can set a custom title for each image (displayed below the thumbnail in the gallery).
• Host notes: Add descriptive notes that appear at the top of the image gallery for context or instructions.
• Responsive display: Images scale appropriately for the operator's screen size and device (mobile, tablet, desktop). The lightbox viewer is optimized for all screen sizes.
• Real-time: Gallery state syncs across all operators in real-time. When the host adds or removes images, all operators see the updated gallery.

Information buttons

• What it does: Displays informational content to operators in a popup modal.
• Setup: Host configures the header text and body content when creating/editing the button.
• Operator experience: Operators click the button to view the information in a popup. The popup can be closed to return to the terminal.
• Cycling groups: When several information buttons share the same column (column 2 or 3 siblings), the modal shows previous/next controls so you can move between them. Opening, closing, and cycling sync for everyone in the session.
• Content support: Information can include rich text and links that operators can interact with.
• Real-time: Popup open, close, and cycle state sync across all connected operators. If the host edits button content in edit mode, saved changes appear on the next open.

Map buttons

• What it does: Provides a grid-based map interface that can show hints about spaces in your game or puzzle. Maps can mark points of interest, hidden entrances, secret passages, or other locations to guide operators.
• Purpose: Maps typically represent areas or dungeons that operators discover during gameplay. Operators may find a map hidden somewhere in the environment, then use this button to view the hint-filled map and see marked locations.
• Setup: Host enables the "Map" button type and can configure:
  • Grid size (width and height)
  • Map walls (manually edit the grid by clicking cells to add or remove walls)
• Host experience: Host has an editor tab where they can:
  • Set the grid size (width and height in cells)
  • Manually edit walls by clicking grid cells to toggle walls on/off
  • Add map markers (hints) at specific locations with custom names and colors. These markers are visible to all operators.
  • Zoom in/out to see the full map or work on details
• Operator experience: All operators have a viewer tab where they can:
  • See the grid layout with walls and open spaces
  • View all map markers placed by the host (showing hints like "Hidden Door" or "Treasure Room")
  • Create personal markers on the map (color-coded from the terminal's theme palette) to track their progress or mark exploration notes
  • View markers placed by other operators in real-time
  • Delete their own personal markers
  • Zoom in/out to see the full map or examine specific areas
• Zoom and pan: Both host and operators can zoom in/out using:
  • Keyboard: Z (zoom in) / X (zoom out)
  • Buttons: +/- zoom buttons in the map interface
  • Mouse scroll: Scroll wheel to zoom in/out
  • Drag to pan: Click and drag the map to move around
• Real-time: Map state, host markers, and personal markers are synchronized in real-time. All operators see the same map layout and host hints instantly.

Video Player buttons

• What it does: Plays an uploaded video file (not YouTube) for operators in a modal.
• Setup: Host attaches an MP4/WebM (or similar) from their Media Library when creating/editing the button.
• Operator experience: Operators click the button to view the video with standard player controls.
• Real-time: Play, pause, and seek sync across all connected operators in Cloud Edition. In Desktop LAN sessions, video streams from the host machine to session players.

YouTube Video buttons

• What it does: Embeds and plays a YouTube video for operators in a modal.
• Setup: Host provides a YouTube video ID or full URL when creating/editing the button.
• Operator experience: Operators click the button to view the video with standard player controls.
• Autoplay note: Browsers may block autoplay until the user interacts with the page.
• Real-time: Modal open/close and playback controls sync across operators in Cloud Edition and Desktop LAN sessions.

Security Protocols

Security protocols gate access to a button's content. Hosts configure a security type on any button in edit mode — operators must pass the challenge before the button's action (audio, image, information, etc.) opens. All three types are mutually exclusive: a button can only have one security type at a time.

Password

• What it does: Prompts operators to enter a text password before allowing them to interact with the button.
• Setup: Host configures the password when creating/editing the button.
• Operator experience: Operators click the button, see a modal requesting the password, and gain access upon correct entry.
• Host credential panel: The host can open a floating credential panel from the terminal to see the password for any protected button at a glance — without entering edit mode.
• Real-time: The password prompt opens and closes for everyone together. Entering the correct password unlocks the button for the whole session.

Keypad

• What it does: Protects a button with a numeric keypad challenge. Operators must enter a correct code to proceed.
• Setup: Host sets a 1–5 digit code and (optionally) a max failed attempt limit.
• Operator experience: Clicking the button opens a keypad modal. Operators enter the code. On success, the button unlocks; on failure, they can retry (if attempts remain).
• Attempt limiting: If max attempts is reached, the display flashes red three times, then shows "LOCKED". Operators cannot make any more attempts until the host manually resets the keypad.
• Unlocking: Once an operator successfully enters the code, the button remains unlocked for that operator's session.
• Sound feedback: Keypad attempts trigger success/error beeps that match the terminal's selected sound theme.
• Host credential panel: The host can open a floating credential panel from the terminal to see the keypad code, current state, and attempt count at a glance — without entering edit mode.
• Real-time: Keypad state is synchronized; all operators see consistent lock states and attempt counters.

Hack

• What it does: Locks a button behind an interactive hacking mini-game. Operators must solve the puzzle to gain access; the button's content unlocks on success.
• Setup: In the button editor, set Security to Hack and configure difficulty, puzzle type, time limit, and failure consequences.
• Puzzle types: Choose a specific type or Random to vary it each session:
  • Word Matrix — scan a character grid to find the correct password word using similarity hints
  • Breach Protocol — select a sequence of hex codes from a matrix to match target sequences before the buffer fills
  • Circuit Relay — rotate and connect pipe segments to complete a circuit path from source to destination
  • Cryptogram Cipher — decode an encrypted phrase by mapping cipher letters to plaintext one at a time; wrong guesses are limited
  • Memory Matrix — memorize a pattern of lit tiles briefly shown, then recreate it from memory
• Difficulty: Easy, Normal, or Hard — affects grid size, word length, sequence complexity, and similar parameters per puzzle type.
• Time limit: Optional. When set, operators see a countdown bar and must solve the puzzle before time runs out. A brief intro screen is shown first with a Begin Hack button so operators are not caught off guard.
• Max attempts: Optional. Limit how many failed attempts operators can make before the failure consequence triggers.
• Failure consequences: On timeout or exhausted attempts, choose what happens:
  • Locked: Host must manually reset the button to allow another attempt.
  • Locked (timed): Operators must wait a set duration before a new attempt is available.
  • Broken: The button is permanently disabled until the host resets it. Shown as "TERMINAL DESTROYED".
• Host solution panel: The host can open a floating solution panel from inside the hacking modal (the ? button in the footer) to see the current puzzle answer at any time — invisible to operators.
• Share answer: Hosts can reveal the solution to all operators via the Solution tab in the modal — useful if you want to hand out the answer after a scene ends.
• Regenerate: The host can generate a fresh puzzle at any time. Operators currently viewing the modal will see a "Puzzle Updated" notice and a Reload Puzzle button.
• Real-time: Solve state, lock state, and failure status sync across all operators. If one operator solves the puzzle, the button unlocks for everyone.
• Alien RPG check: When an Alien RPG game is active (see Game Systems → Alien RPG ), operators face a Comtech check before the puzzle loads, and the result tightens the puzzle's difficulty, attempt count, and time limit.

Toggle Groups

Toggle Group isn't a button type of its own — it's a mode any button can have, turning a set of buttons into mutually-exclusive selections (only one active at a time). Useful for selections, mode switches, or multi-state scenarios.

• Setup: Host creates multiple buttons and groups them as a toggle group, assigning each a distinct label and optional color.
• Operator experience: Operators click a button in the group to activate it. The previously active button is deactivated, and the new one becomes the active state. Label and color change to reflect the current selection.
• Visual feedback: The active toggle button displays its assigned color and label, making the current state immediately visible.
• Real-time: Toggle state is synchronized across all operators; everyone sees the same active selection instantly.

Encrypted Buttons

Information, Image, Video, Audio, YouTube, Google Docs/Sheets, Map, and Attachment buttons can all be marked encrypted, independent of any Security Protocol above. While locked, operators cannot access the real content in any way — no scrubbing video, no playing audio, no opening the image lightbox, no downloading an attachment — until it's been decrypted.

• Setup: In the button editor, check Encrypted under Encryption Configuration and set Attempts needed (1–5) — how many successful decryptions are required for a full reveal.
• Waiting message: Optionally show a live "X / N decryptions successful" progress counter to operators (off by default).
• Manual decrypt roll: Optionally let operators self-report a physical dice check (success/fail) instead of rolling automatically on-screen — useful if you prefer rolling at the table (off by default).
• Static/glitch effect: For every type except Information, check Use static/glitch effect to show an animated WebGL static overlay on top of the locked content instead of the default blur. Content stays fully locked and non-interactive either way — this only changes the visual treatment. Falls back to the default blur automatically if WebGL2 isn't available.
• What operators see while locked:
  • Information: the text is scrambled, with characters progressively revealed as decryption succeeds.
  • Image: the thumbnail is blurred (or shows the static overlay) and clicking it does not open the lightbox until fully unlocked.
  • Video: the real first frame is shown, paused and muted, with no controls — blurred and grayscaled (or with the static overlay) until fully unlocked.
  • Audio: the real waveform shape is visible, but the Play button does not work until fully unlocked.
  • YouTube, Google Docs/Sheets, and Attachment: the real video, document, or file list is never shown at all — a locked placeholder stands in until fully unlocked, since there's no safe preview for these.
  • Map: the wall/floor layout is shown blurred, but markers and transitions (which can carry your own labels and messages) stay hidden until fully unlocked.
• Decrypting — with an active RPG game: Operators see a footer "Decrypt" button opening a Wits + Comtech stat check (the same dice pattern used for the Alien RPG door bypass check — see Game Systems → Alien RPG ). A failed check locks the button with "DECRYPTION LOCKED — waiting for host" shown over the still-visible locked content; the host must allow more attempts before operators can try again.
• Decrypting — without an active RPG game: There's no operator-facing decrypt control. The host manually advances the reveal for everyone using their Solution panel.
• Host view: The host always sees the real, fully interactive content, plus an ENCRYPTED/DECRYPTED status badge in the modal header. A footer Solution button opens a draggable panel showing progress, with controls to Reveal Next Layer, Allow More Attempts, or Reset All Progress.
• Real-time: Encryption progress and config sync live to every connected operator — no reload needed to see host changes.

Game Systems

Menu → Game Settings lets you select a specific game system for a terminal, unlocking character stat sheets for operators and layering that system's mechanics onto hacking and door challenges. This is entirely optional — terminals work normally with no game selected. Currently supported:

Alien RPG

Alien RPG mode adds the game's dice-pool skill checks to hacking and door challenges, and a suite of standalone GM tools.

Enabling Alien RPG mode

• Setup: Menu → Game Settings → Game dropdown → choose Alien RPG (Core Rulebook) or Alien RPG (Evolved) . This unlocks a stat sheet option for operators and the RPG-specific behavior described below.
• Operator stats: Once a game is active, operators can open Game Settings from their own menu to enter their character's attributes and skills (Strength, Close Combat, Wits, Comtech, and more). The host can also view and edit each assigned operator's stats from their own Game Settings → Operators list ("Edit Stats").
• No stats configured: If an operator hasn't entered stats yet, checks show a "No character stats configured" warning with a "Continue Anyway" option so play isn't blocked.

Comtech check (Hacking)

• With Alien RPG active, any button using the Hack security protocol shows a "COMTECH CHECK" screen before the puzzle loads. Operators see their Wits + Comtech dice pool and can apply a ± situational modifier, then press BEGIN HACK to lock it in.
• Difficulty tiers: The resulting dice pool maps to a tier — Desperate, Expert, Hard, Normal, or Easy — that can only tighten the puzzle's configured max attempts and time limit, never loosen them. The underlying puzzle (Word Matrix, Breach Protocol, etc.) still plays out normally afterward.
• Host view: Hosts never see the pre-hack check screen — it's operator-only. The host's Solution panel works the same as always.

Door skill checks

• Setup: In the door button editor, check Require RPG skill check (only shown when a game is active), then choose which approaches are allowed: Force (Strength + Close Combat) and/or Bypass (Wits + Comtech).
• Operator experience: Opening a locked door with the check enabled shows a "DOOR ACCESS CHECK" screen. If both approaches are allowed, the operator picks one, sees the stat breakdown (Evolved edition adds a bonus to Force for breaching), and either rolls automatically or, if "Roll manually" is enabled, self-reports success/fail for a physical dice roll at the table.
• Failure: Each approach can only be failed once per lock; a failed approach is marked and becomes unselectable. If all allowed approaches fail, operators see "ACCESS DENIED" and must wait for the host to reset it.
• Host view: The door shows a "Skill Check Active" / "Skill Check Failed" banner with per-approach status, plus a "Reset skill check" control to clear failures and allow a retry.

Alien RPG Tools

• Access: Hosts running an Alien RPG game (Core or Evolved) see an Alien RPG Tools button in the terminal header, opening a draggable, resizable modal with a dropdown to switch between nine standalone GM tools: Combat Tracker, Star System generator, Ship Generator, Panic Tool, Creature Generator, NPC Generator, Contract/Cargo generator, Salvage Generator, and Space Travel calculator.
• Save state: The Combat Tracker's state is saved to your browser and persists across page reloads. All other tools keep their state only while the modal is open or you're switching between tools — it resets on page reload.
• Theming: Tools automatically recolor to match your terminal's active theme.
• Operator visibility: These are GM-facing reference tools, not synced to operators — only the host sees and uses them.

Maintenance Mode

The app may temporarily enter maintenance. Planned modes:

• Off : Normal operation.
• Partial : Home/pricing and sign‑up remain available; some features disabled.
• Lockdown : Only the front page remains accessible; other routes show a maintenance page.

If you see a maintenance page, try again later. Your data remains safe; no action is required.

Troubleshooting & Environment Notes

Browser add-ons and network tools can interfere with real-time features, audio/video, and authentication.

All editions

• Ad/privacy blockers: Whitelist this site or disable blockers for the session.
• VPN/proxies: May cause connection drops or higher latency.
• Autoplay/audio: Click the terminal once if sounds or video will not start.
• Clear cache: If the UI seems stuck, refresh and clear site data.

Cloud Edition (operators)

• Not assigned to a terminal: Ask the host to invite you on their Operators tab and assign that terminal.
• Cannot Access: The host must set you to Can View or Can Operate in Manage Access (or update your default access on the Operators tab).
• Host switched terminals: If you are assigned to the new terminal, your browser follows automatically. If not, you will see a message to return to the dashboard.
• Audio or media won't load: Operators stream the host's media library files. If playback fails, refresh the page and ensure you are on the same app version/build as the host during testing.

Desktop LAN sessions

• Can't reach host: Ensure Diegetic Simulators Desktop is running and players use port 5173 in dev or your published join URL — not the raw API port alone.
• Firewall: Allow the app through Windows Firewall on the host PC.
• Wrong terminal: Only the terminal open on the host is live; open the correct one or switch and let players follow the auto-redirect.
• No operators on join list: Add operators on the Operators tab and assign them to that terminal.
• More detail: How Players Connect