Is it possible to catch key events in console mode, I mean without a GUI. I want ot be able to put warning messages before actually loading the graphics and maybe let the user choose alternative options ubt just by pressing a key or another, not having to type a line (with a CR). System.in is an InputStream but it seems to act more like a buffered one as nothing can be read from it until a CR as been sent. On the other hand, KeyEvents seem to be only for GUI Components which also must have the focus. Do you hava any idea ? Or maybe it is not possible in java. PS: also, is there an API or something else that could do the same as ncurses in C ? Not really game related (although I would use it for my configuration program) but I was just wondering...

What about a simple AWT based dialog box or simple window. This would be quick, and allow for single character changes. System.in does not allow what you are trying to do.