In this episode of the PowerShell Podcast, we take a detour from our typical PowerShell conversations to explore the fascinating world of game hacking with backend services developer Mateus Pimentel. Mateus shares his journey from crafting bots for MMORPGs to reverse engineering games and ultimately working in online services for a major gaming company.We discuss his early experiences hacking Tibia, how he overcame being hacked himself as a kid, and how those formative experiences shaped his approach to software development and cybersecurity. Mateus also dives into powerful learning experiences from hacking games, participating in Capture the Flag competitions, and avoiding the dark paths that lure many curious technologists. This episode is a compelling exploration of hacking culture, ethics, and personal transformation.
Topics covered:
From game hacking to working at a gaming companyMateus’ early adventures reverse-engineering TibiaLessons learned from being hacked as a kidEthical hacking, personal growth, and career evolutionThe overlap between game hacking and cybersecurityCapture the Flag (CTF) competitions and their career valueUnderstanding system protocols and reverse engineeringReflections on following your curiosity and avoiding burnoutNotable quote: “Follow your passion. If it’s fun, you’ll learn 10 times faster.”
Bio and Links:
Mateus Pimentel is a software developer with a passion for software architecture, game modding and solving complex problems. From reverse engineering MMORPGs as a teenager to helping secure one of the gaming industry's most ambitious projects at major gaming company, Mateus has cultivated deep technical skills grounded in a strong ethical framework. His journey from underground hacker to professional developer offers a unique and inspiring perspective on how curiosity and integrity can guide a meaningful career in tech.
Follow Mateus on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pimentelmateus/Connect with Andrew: https://andrewpla.tech/linksCatch PowerShell Wednesdays weekly at 2 PM EST on discord.gg/pdqThe PowerShell Podcast hub: https://pdq.com/the-powershell-podcastDarza's Dominion Hacked: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ipqge4aJt3UMystera Reborn Hacked: https://youtu.be/Gg6owdR_7h8?si=1Uk0a8RW9czs0TCmUsing Remote Vision to watch a Player Battle: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=poDkWlR-1ksFractured Online Gold Machine: https://youtu.be/EIHJBdrr0Ac?si=Wis9DGinI5EKuN0OThe PowerShell Podcast Hub: https://pdq.com/the-powershell-podcast The PowerShell Podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/8cxtg4QQjZQ