cyberpunk rpg game

A Cyberpunk RPG game plunges players into a dystopian, high-tech future filled with neon-lit megacities, cybernetic enhancements, corporate conspiracies, and underground rebels. If you're looking to create, play, or explore a cyberpunk-themed tabletop or video game RPG, heres a breakdown of key elements: Core Themes & Setting Megacorporations Rule: Governments are weak; powerful corporations control society. High-Tech, Low-Life: Advanced tech (cyberware, AI, hacking) exists alongside poverty and crime. Cybernetics & Transhumanism: Players can augment their bodies with implants, but at a cost (loss of humanity, cyberpsychosis). Neon Noir: A mix of futuristic aesthetics and gritty detective stories. Rebels vs. The System: Players often fight against oppressive systems or work as mercenaries in a morally gray world. Game Mechanics (Tabletop RPGs) Popular cyberpunk RPG systems include: Cyberpunk Red / Cyberpunk 2020 (Classic pen-and-paper RPG by Mike Pondsmith, basis for Cyberpunk 2077) - Uses a d10-based system, lifepath character creation, and brutal combat. - Roles: Netrunners (hackers), Solos (combat), Techies, Fixers, etc. Shadowrun (Cyberpunk + fantasy elves, magic, and hacking coexist) - Uses a d6 dice-pool system. The Sprawl (PbtA cyberpunk game focused on heists and corporate espionage) Neon City Overdrive (Rules-light, narrative-driven cyberpunk RPG) Video Game Adaptations Cyberpunk 2077 (CD Projekt Red) Open-world RPG based on Cyberpunk 2020. Deus Ex Series FPS/RPG hybrid with cybernetic upgrades and conspiracies. Shadowrun Returns Trilogy (Harebrained Schemes) Turn-based tactical RPG. The Ascent (Cyberpunk-themed twin-stick shooter with RPG elements). Character Archetypes Netrunner / Decker: Master hacker who invades cyberspace. Solo / Mercenary: Combat specialist with cybernetic enhancements. Techie / Engineer: Gadget and drone expert. Fixer / Rogue: Black-market dealer and information broker. Corporate / Exec: A high-ranking suit with resources but moral compromises. Media / Investigator: Uncovering corporate secrets and spreading the truth. Key Gameplay Elements Cyberware Upgrades: Replace limbs, install combat chips, or get enhanced vision. Hacking / Netrunning: Breach systems, disable security, or steal data. Faction Reputation: Gain allies or enemies with gangs, corps, or rebels. Moral Choices: Decide between profit, survival, or rebellion. Urban Exploration: Neon streets, slums, corporate towers, and cyberspace. Creating Your Own Cyberpunk RPG If you're designing one: Use a system like Cyberpunk Red, GURPS Cyberpunk, or FATE for flexibility. Focus on atmosphere: Rain-soaked streets, synthwave music, and corporate propaganda. Include cyberpsychosis: The risk of losing humanity from too many implants. Make tech dangerous: AI, rogue drones, and black ICE (deadly hacking programs). Must-Have Cyberpunk Tropes "Wake up, samurai" A call to action. "The street finds its own uses for things." Tech repurposed for rebellion. "Youre not paid to ask questions." Mercenary life. "The corp owns you." Dystopian corporate control. Recommendations For tabletop fans: Try Cyberpunk Red for brutal action or The Sprawl for narrative heists. For video gamers: Cyberpunk 2077 (after patches) or Deus Ex: Human Revolution. For indie RPGs: Neon City Overdrive or Hack the Planet (Forged in the Dark cyberpunk). Would you like help with character creation, a campaign hook, or system recommendations?