how to play cyberpunk red

3 min read 28-01-2025

Cyberpunk Red is a tabletop role-playing game (TTRPG) set in the gritty, neon-drenched world of Night City, the same iconic location as the Cyberpunk 2077 video game. This guide will walk you through the basics of playing, from character creation to navigating the dangerous streets. Whether you're a seasoned TTRPG veteran or a curious newcomer, this guide will help you get started with Cyberpunk Red.

Setting the Stage: What You'll Need

Before diving into the chrome and chaos, you'll need a few things:

The Cyberpunk Red Core Rulebook: This is your essential guide to the game's rules and setting.
Dice: You'll need a set of six-sided dice (d6s). Cyberpunk Red uses a unique dice pool mechanic.
Players: Gather your friends and get ready for some roleplaying! Even better with 3-5 players.
Game Master (GM): One player takes on the role of the GM, who runs the game, controls NPCs, and describes the world.

Creating Your Cyberpunk Red Character: Becoming a Netrunner, Solo, or Tech

Character creation in Cyberpunk Red is a multi-step process focusing on building a believable and capable character for the Night City adventures you'll have.

Step 1: Selecting Your Lifepath

Your lifepath determines your character's background and starting skills. Choices include Nomad, Corporate, Street Kid, and more. Each provides a different perspective on Night City and starting advantages. Think carefully about which best fits your character concept.

Step 2: Defining Your Role

Cyberpunk Red offers diverse character roles:

Solo: Skilled fighters and specialists, comfortable handling any situation.
Netrunner: Tech wizards who excel in the digital world, hacking and manipulating data.
Tech: The inventors, capable of creating and modifying technology.
Medtech: Those specializing in medical knowledge and cybernetics.
Lawman: Enforcers of the law, or mercenaries for hire.
Exec: Corporate types moving through the corporate ladder, or manipulating the system.
Fixer: Connectors, always with a contact and a deal in mind.

Step 3: Assigning Attributes and Skills

You'll allocate points to various attributes (like Reflexes, Body, and Intelligence) and skills (like Handguns, Stealth, and Hacking). This shapes your character's strengths and weaknesses. Prioritize attributes and skills relevant to your chosen lifepath and role.

Step 4: Choosing Cybernetics and Gear

Cybernetics are enhancements that augment your character's abilities. Gear includes weapons, vehicles, and other equipment. You'll have a limited amount of money to begin, so make wise choices!

Gameplay: Navigating the Streets of Night City

Cyberpunk Red uses a dice pool system. The GM will describe a situation, and players will roll a number of d6s based on their relevant skills and attributes.

The Dice Pool: Rolling for Success

Target Number: Each task has a target number, often 5 or 6.
Successes: Each die that rolls equal to or above the target number counts as a success.
Critical Hits: Rolling all 6s is a critical hit!
Critical Glitches: Rolling all 1s is a critical glitch!

Handling Conflicts and Challenges: Combat and Non-Combat

Combat revolves around the dice pool mechanic, with players needing to overcome the target number set by the GM for their actions. Non-combat challenges might involve negotiation, hacking, or stealth, utilizing the dice pool in similar ways.

Tips for New Players

Read the rulebook: It might seem daunting, but it's essential for understanding the game's mechanics.
Start small: Don't be afraid to begin with simpler scenarios before tackling complex challenges.
Communicate with your GM: Ask questions, discuss your character's actions, and help shape the story.
Embrace the setting: Cyberpunk Red is a dark and gritty world. Don't be afraid to get creative and embrace the chaos.

Mastering Cyberpunk Red: Beyond the Basics

As you gain experience, you'll delve deeper into the game's intricate systems, including:

Character advancement: How your character grows and evolves over time.
Crafting: Creating your own gear and cybernetics.
Street Cred: Your reputation in Night City.
The Net: The sprawling digital world.

Conclusion: Dive into the Cyberpunk Red World

Cyberpunk Red offers a unique and engaging experience. This article is only a starting point. Embrace the setting, explore the rules, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through the neon-lit streets of Night City. Remember to have fun and let your creativity shine! Now go forth and become a legend in Night City!