nico's nextbots Guide: The one rule you need to know
About
OverviewNico's Nextbots [Legacy] is a horror-comedy game inspired by Garry's Mod where giant PNG characters chase you around a map with loud sounds. Your only goal is to stay alive as long as possible — there is nothing to fight, only running and hiding.
What is on this page
Contents
The one rule you need to know
Summary
This game does not have a win condition in the traditional sense. A nextbot catches you and the round ends; the longer you last, the better you did.
- Goal stay alive as long as possible
- Loss condition getting caught by a nextbot
- Combat not possible; running and hiding are your only options
- Solo or group playable alone or with other players
MetaNew Player Survey
The next survey is being prepared.
Getting started on your first run
StepUse the opening moments to build a mental picture of the space.
- Walk the map move through the whole area once to spot walls, open corridors, and indoor spaces
- Pick hiding spots go inside each one briefly to confirm you can stay out of sight
- Watch other players observing how experienced players move gives you a free lesson in routes that work
- Trust your own reads once you have seen the layout, make your own decisions rather than just following the crowd
Staying alive when a nextbot is on you
TipsNextbots announce themselves with loud sounds, so your ears are as useful as your eyes. The moment you hear one closing in, change what you are doing.
- Duck into buildings — indoor spaces offer corners and multiple directions to confuse pursuit
- Listen for the sound — the noise getting louder means it is time to move immediately
- Use map tools — items placed around the map can help you get away
- Split from the group — clustering with other players makes everyone a bigger target
Common reasons players keep dying early
CheckIf a nextbot is finding you almost immediately every round, run through this list before your next attempt.
- Have you actually explored the full map, or are you sticking to one corner?
- Do you have more than one hiding spot memorized?
- Are you making your own movement decisions, or just shadowing another player?
- Have you checked what tools are available on the map?
- Are you reacting to the nextbot's sound, or waiting until it is already on top of you?
Legacy version and the updated game
SummaryThe Legacy tag means this is the original build of the game. A newer version has been released with additional maps, tools, taunts, and other content. Both are available and you can choose whichever you prefer.
- This version the original build, playable as-is
- Updated version adds maps, tools, taunts, and further changes
- Choice neither version is locked; you pick which one to launch
Community strategy ideas
CommunityThese ideas and tips come from people playing the game. Share your discoveries too!
No strategy ideas yet. Share a tip you discovered.
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nico's nextbots [legacy]
Glossary
Glossary- Nextbot
- The giant PNG characters that chase players around the map with loud sounds.
- PNG
- The visual style of the enemy characters, which look like oversized flat image files rather than 3D models.
- Legacy
- A label meaning this is the original, older version of the game, as opposed to the separately released updated version.
- Tool
- An item found on the map that can be picked up and used to help you escape a nextbot.
Common questions
FAQCan I play this alone?
Yes, the game works with a single player. You can also join a session with others.
How do I defeat a nextbot?
You do not. The nextbots cannot be beaten — the game is purely about escaping and lasting as long as possible. If one catches you, the round is over.
What is the difference between this version and the updated one?
This Legacy version is the original build of the game. The updated version adds maps, tools, taunts, and other content.
Game updates can change what is on this page. If you spot something, get in touch and let us know.
