Cyberpunk 2020 is a tabletop role-playing game set in a futuristic dystopian world where players take on the roles of cyber-enhanced individuals in a world where corporations rule and crime is everywhere. The game takes place in the fictional city of Night City, where technology has advanced significantly, and cybernetic enhancements are a common sight. Players take on the roles of cyber-enhanced individuals, known as “edgerunners,” who are mercenaries, criminals, or loners fighting for survival in a harsh world. Cyberpunk 2020 has had a significant impact on popular culture, with its influence seen in movies, books, and video games.
Exploring the World of Cyberpunk 2020: Review and Analysis
Cyberpunk 2020 is a tabletop role-playing game that was published by R. Talsorian Games in 1990. The game is set in a futuristic dystopian world, where players take on the roles of cyber-enhanced individuals in a world where corporations rule and crime is everywhere. The game has gained a cult following over the years and has influenced many modern games, including the popular video game franchise, Cyberpunk 2077.
The Setting
The world of Cyberpunk 2020 is set in the fictional city of Night City, which is located on the west coast of the United States. The city is a massive metropolis that is dominated by corporations, organized crime, and street gangs. Technology has advanced significantly, and cybernetic enhancements are a common sight in Night City. However, with great power comes great responsibility, and the world of Cyberpunk 2020 is a brutal one, where violence and corruption are widespread.
The Game Mechanics
Cyberpunk 2020 uses a system based on the Interlock ruleset, which is a skill-based system that relies on percentile dice rolls. The game is heavily focused on combat, but it also has rules for character creation, hacking, and social interactions. The game is designed for groups of players, with one player acting as the game master, who guides the story and controls non-player characters.
The Characters
Players take on the roles of cyber-enhanced individuals, known as “edgerunners,” who are mercenaries, criminals, or loners fighting for survival in a harsh world. Players can choose from a variety of classes, including Solo (a combat specialist), Netrunner (a hacker), and Nomad (a vehicle specialist). Each class has its own strengths and weaknesses, which can be expanded upon through character creation.
The Themes
Cyberpunk 2020 is a game that explores themes such as transhumanism, corruption, and social inequality. The game’s world is a reflection of our own, where the rich and powerful control everything, and those without means are left to fend for themselves. Violence and crime are rampant, and the game encourages players to explore these dark themes through their characters.
The Legacy
Cyberpunk 2020 has had a significant impact on popular culture, with its influence seen in movies, books, and video games. The tabletop game inspired the hugely successful video game franchise, Cyberpunk 2077, which has brought the world of Cyberpunk to a new generation of gamers. The game has also spawned a cult following, with fans of the game creating their own content, such as fan-made supplements and scenarios.
The Verdict
Cyberpunk 2020 is a game that has stood the test of time, providing players with a rich and immersive world to explore. The game’s focus on combat may not be for everyone, but the game’s themes and character creation system are what make it stand out. The world of Cyberpunk is a dark and dangerous one, but it’s a world that is worth exploring.
Overall Score: 8/10
If you’re a fan of dystopian worlds, transhumanism, or just looking for a new tabletop game to try, Cyberpunk 2020 is definitely worth checking out.