the Matrix (in the computer, not the movie)

[Runesong42]

Hey all! One of my players has a character that wants to be a hacking whiz. The way that the Computer Use skill works now, either he's in or he's out when it comes to looking for stuff. I'd like to make it more interesting by introducing something similar to Shadowrun's "Matrix".

I have an idea that the player would have to create an online persona which he would use to navigate the net. (And someday, I hope to play in such an adventure) I envision him having, in effect, a second character which he can upgrade by buying or writing new programs. As well, the hardware he uses should have an effect on how uber he can make the character. And, I envision programs to work like spells or even have to make him melee with the security programs.

I am using the Shadowrun manual as a guide, but I'm having trouble seeing the big picture.

If anyone would like to toss out some ideas, I would greatly appreciate it.

Thanks!

 

[beverson]

If you haven't seen it, check out the Deathnet mini-game in last month's Polyhedron. It has some very interesting rules for online personas that you might find useful.

 

[malladin]

Okay, I'm going to give you a quick preview of our netrunning (scoperiding) systems for Etherscope. Whilsts there is possibly a big difference between the nature of the Scope and the Matrix, I think the rules we've developed should work for any 'total emersion' netrunning.

Yes, basically you do have a separate character for netrunning purposes, however the core of this character is based on your existing abilities. Physical ability scores and skills all have scope analogues which make up the base of your character, whereas the detail (such as equipment) is generated by 'programs'.

Here's the way we see the scope analogues working:

Scope trait > Base character trait
Strength > Intelligence
Dexterity > Wisdom
Constitution > Charisma
Base attack > Computer use skill ranks (-2)
Base defense > half ranks in Spot skill
For Save > half ranks in Bluff skill
Ref Save > half ranks in Sense Motive skill
Concentration skill > Diplomacy skill
Jump, Climb & swim skills > Craft (electronics) (well, actually Ethertech in our world, but electronics is the modern equivalent)

All 'mental' abilities remain the same as out of the scope.

The only thing that doesn't have a direct analogue is hit dice. This is basically a D6 for everyone, but scope specific advanced classes get increased hit dice class, and there is a feat that lets you get a d8 for any level yuou take in a non-scope class. You need Cha 13+ and 4 ranks in computer use and diplomacy to get it.

Cheerio,

Ben, Malladin's Gate Press
www.malladinsgate.com