USER.CON

Uncover hidden details in Duke Nukem 3D's USER.CON file, including unused cheat codes, secret map names like FACES OF DEATH and ROACH CONDO, and developer references.

The USER.CON file in Duke Nukem 3D contains several interesting details, including spelling errors and alternative names for game elements. For instance, 'IR Goggles' likely refers to night vision goggles.

There are indications of unused cheat codes and messages within the text files, such as 'WILL ALWAYS HAVE NO FUTURE' and 'AIRTANK', suggesting a potential cheat menu that was ultimately scrapped. 'AIRTANK' might have been intended as a substitute for Scuba Gear, and 'YOU'RE BURNING!' could have been a damage-related on-screen message.

USER.CON also lists all the maps, including some less commonly known levels at the end of Episode 1:

1. FACESS OF DEATH (E1L7.map): A multiplayer level playable in single-player, featuring numerous BattleLords.
2. USER MAP (E1L8.map): Appears to be a small, weapon-filled multiplayer area.
3. VOID ZONE (E1L9.map): Mentioned in a brief 'level loading' screen flash when exiting the game, particularly when playing user-made maps.
4. ROACH CONDO (E1L10.map): Contains a time reference 'THX 1138', a nod to the George Lucas film. This level, along with ANTIPROFIT, is believed to be related to Duke Nukem V, with source code comments indicating 'FUNNY' for ROACH CONDO and 'RPG' for ANTIPROFIT.
5. ANTIPROFIT (E1L11.map): Features a time reference '867-5309', referencing the Tony Tutone song.

The 'VOID ZONE' phenomenon occurs because when a user map is played, it's treated as 'E1L8 - User Map'. Upon completion, the game looks for E1L9, cannot find it, and displays 'VOID ZONE' before exiting. Similarly, finishing a level by defeating a boss typically leads to the Battlelord ending screen, unless the episode specifies otherwise, which is why user maps in Episode 1 default to this ending.