i think i like NetHack conceptually more than i like actually playing it. the system-driven mechanics and unabashed embrace of adventure game "bloat" and "pointless features" is a nice change of pace compared to more gamey and streamlined and arguably soulless roguelikes like Brogue and DCSS, yet actually playing NetHack reminds me why those games are designed the way they are. i'm not sure NetHack is as bad as it's most vicious detractors say it is, but they are at least certainly onto something. lots of mechanics here encourage, intentionally or not, very boring and degenerate forms of play. altar ID, price ID, corpse eating, stashes, statues dropping spellbooks, wishes, etc. all encourage very tedious forms of play, even if they're fun or novel at first. despite all that i still feel like i don't want the game any other way.