RetroHexChat is a web-based IRC client with an authentic retro look and feel. It supports channels, private messages, text formatting, nick services, and much more.
It runs in your web browser, so there is nothing to install. The screen looks like a classic desktop with windows, a taskbar and a Start menu, and the chat works like mIRC.
Quick Start
1. Enter a nickname on the connect screen and click Connect.
2. You will automatically join #lobby.
3. Type messages in the input box and press Enter to send.
4. Use
/commands for advanced features — type
/help to see them all.
Your nickname
Every nickname is registered with a password. The first time you use a new nickname, the connect screen asks you to choose a password. Then click Register & Connect. On later visits, enter the same password to log in.
Finding your way around
- Conversations lists the channels you are in and your private conversations. Click one to open it.
- The nicklist shows who is in the current channel.
- The topic bar above the messages shows the channel topic and its modes.
- The Status tab collects server messages, such as the Message of the Day.
- The menu bar and the Start menu open every window and tool, from the Channel List to your account settings.
First things to try
- Join another channel: type /join #channel.
- See which channels exist: choose View > Channel List, or type /list.
-
Talk to one person in private:
/msg <nickname> <message> - Learn the keyboard shortcuts: press Ctrl+Shift+/ or choose Help > Shortcut Cheatsheet.
- Read about one command: type /help <command>, for example /help join.
Where to look next
These help pages are always one click away. Choose Help > Help Topics in the chat to open them. Good places to start:
- UI Overview explains each part of the screen.
- Commands lists everything you can type.
- Private Messages shows how to talk to one person.
- Text Formatting covers bold text, colors and Markdown.
- NickServ explains how your nickname is protected.
See Also
Connecting · Channels · Keyboard Shortcuts · Start Menu · Shortcut Cheatsheet
