Objective
Android Netrunner is an asymmetrical card game for two players set in a dystopian future. One player takes on the role of a Megacorporation (Corp), while the other plays as a Runner trying to sabotage the Corp's plans. The primary objective is to score Agenda Points. Corporations aim to achieve this by installing and advancing agendas, while Runners hack them.
Components
- Cards: Different types (agendas, ICE, assets, programs, operations, etc.).
- Credits: Represents the currency in the game.
- Tags: Special tokens that are used under specific circumstances.
Setup
Each player constructs a deck of at least 45 cards from their own pool of agendas, programs, ICE, and other resources, depending on their role (Corp or Runner). Additional cards form the Identity Deck, which defines the strategic focus and abilities of each player.
Basic Rules
Corporation
- Turn: A round consists of three phases:
- Draw Phase: Draw a card from R&D (Research and Development).
- Action Phase: Take actions such as drawing cards, gaining credits, advancing agendas, installing ICE or assets.
- Score Phase: Advance agendas to score points.
- ICE: These cards defend central servers (R&D, HQ, Archives) by creating barriers the Runner must break.
Runner
- Turn: Similarly consists of three phases:
- Action Phase: Draw cards, gain credits, install programs, or prepare for runs.
- Run Phase: Attack one of the Corp's servers to steal agendas or destroy cards.
- Recovery Phase: Use leftover clicks to repair damage or boost resources.
Winning the Game
Corporation: - Wins by scoring 7 Agenda Points. - Can also win if Runner dies by receiving too much damage.
Runner: - Wins by stealing Agendas worth 7 points.
Strategic Tips
- Corporation: Balance between ICE and Agendas is key. Use bluffing by installing traps to thwart Runner plans.
- Runner: Be aggressive in pursuing agendas, but be mindful of abilities and resources which facilitate attacking.
Special Rules
- Tags: A crucial mechanic allowing the Corp to specifically react to Runner actions, especially when they are tagged.
Conclusion
Android Netrunner requires strategic thinking, planning, and the knowledge of the strengths and weaknesses of your deck and your opponent's, bringing depth and replayability to every game.
