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Revision as of 21:35, 28 June 2004 by Netoholic (talk | contribs) (→Game Play)(diff) ← Previous revision | Latest revision (diff) | Newer revision → (diff)Netrunner is a collectible card game designed by Richard Garfield, the creator of Magic: The Gathering. It was published by Wizards of the Coast and introduced in 1996. The game is based heavily on the Cyberpunk 2020 role-playing game from R. Talsorian Games, but also draws much of its flavor from the broader cyberpunk genre.
The game is lauded for its balanced game play and impressive artwork.
Game Play
Netrunner depicts cyberspace combat between a global mega-corporation (the Corp) and a hacker (the Runner). The Corp's goal is to complete their secret 'agendas' before the Runner can hack in and spoil their secret plans for world domination. It isn't easy, though, as the Corp has strong defensive 'data fortresses' protected by malevolent computer programs known as ICE (Intrusion Countermeasures Electronics). The Runner must use special programs of their own (called Icebreakers) to break through and steal the hidden plans - to keep the Corp from taking over completely. All this is paid for in the game by a system of resources called 'bits' (representing currency), which are earned and spent during the course of play.
An interesting feature of Netrunner is that each side has different abilities and uses completely different cards distinguished by alternate card backs. This contrasts with most other CCG's, which usually depict a "battle between peers" where each draws from a single card pool. While a player does not have to play both sides except in tournament play, it is commonly held that a firm understanding of both leads to better overall player ability.
Expansion Sets
- Netrunner base set (v1.0) - 374 cards - Release Date: April 26, 1996
- Netrunner Proteus (v2.1) - 154 cards - Release Date: September 1996
- Netrunner Classic (v2.2) - 52 cards - Release Date: November 1999
Zvi Mowshowitz, a well known Magic: The Gathering Pro-Tour player, petitioned Wizards of the Coast to buy the license for Netrunner, but the transfer was never completed and the game is no longer produced.
External Links
- Wizards of the Coast Game Vault: Netrunner - Official site (no longer updated)
- CCG Workshop - Online game play