It is possible to open the DCUI (Direct Console User Interface) via SSH :- 

Open a putty to your ESXi Host (it is necessary to enable SSH – you can find a „how-to“ below) and run the command „dcui“:

… now you can use the good old shell:

If you want the known yellow/grey skin just run the following command before starting the dcui:

export TERM=linux

How to enable SSH on your ESXi Host:

1. open Virtual Center – select the ESXi Host and „Configuration“ Tab
2. select „Security Profile“
3. now doubleclick SSH in the „Services Properties“ window
4. start the SSH service