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> Registered Sprites, A question
Seven-7
post Jan 21 2008, 03:12 AM
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Ok, here's some facts:
  • Technomancers may purchase REGISTERED Sprites in CharGen.
  • To REGISTER Sprites requires a RES+REG Test.
  • Out of C.G. Tasks are not limited at all, in fact, when REGISTERING Compiling skill is no where to be seen.
  • YET for some reason REGISTERED Sprites in CharGen are limited in TASKS by COMPILING.


Ok, have I gotten anything wrong so far?
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Jaid
post Jan 21 2008, 03:43 AM
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why would you pay resources for something that is free when you're making something as badly starved for BP as a technomancer anyways?

(iow: who cares, it's a moot point, imo)
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Seven-7
post Jan 21 2008, 04:39 AM
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I did this on another forum, but it bears repeating:

Ok, here's a partial Sheet, because well...Go where you want with it!

Resources left: 82BP, 250,000 Nuyen, 25Bp space for Pos Qualities, 24 Knowskill points.

Dwarf
B-A-R-S-C-I-L-W-E-R
3-2-2-3-5-4-4-3-1-6

Registering: 5 (Machine Sprites +2)
Compiling: 4

Codeslinger(Registering) -10
Sensitive System -15
Combat Paralysis -20

5*Machine Sprites R6 (Tasks: 4)

...And that's it.


Why didn't I buy Complex Forms?
Well because there's no point. A.) I dont have to really hack, I can buy a Agent and Programs for him and simply let him do it for me while I fly along and provide Sprite Support. The Agent can also hack other drones for me.

Why didn't I buy anything? Anyone can pick up this build and spend 250,000 however they wish: Combat Drones, Vehicles, Smartgun platforms, Air Vehicles...Doesn't matter. Whatever they do however, Machine Sprites can provide 12 dice to any of the tests, be it firing or jazz.

Why is Registering so high and Compiling not? Honestly because Compiling has nothing to do with Registering. It's two different Tasks. It's as if they took mages, but Spellcasting for unbound spirits and summoning for bound spirits. Funny shit really. Oh, and there's no limit on the tasks on each sprite.

How good are you at Registering? 15 Dice. 5(Reg)+6(Res)+2(Spec)+2(Codeslinger). If you go for say...R8 Sprite later on it's an opposed test between 15 and 8, the 8 has a chance at 2.5 or so successes, you can buy 3 or risk 4-5 or so I think. This makes Machine Sprites who in the end throw 16 Dice on attack tests, base.

Can you resist the drain? Yeah, usually. 9 dice. 3(Will)+6(Res), so might take...Assuming 2-3 successes from the Sprites test...4-6 Boxes of damage? Shit, you'll survive regardless, but usually take 3 boxes. Now, you can also spend the 82 points to raise willpower some, or something.


Possible Scenarios:
  • Raise Cha to 6, however you want, have 6 Machine Sprites R6 starting off. Pump em up with Re-Registering. Take 3, put em in heavy combat drones (Cheap!) with LMG's and it gets worse from there. Beyond the 16 dice a R8 would through, your other 3 sprites would use their power of Diagnostics (Rolling 16 dice again) to add +Dice equal to hits on the test (Can buy 4). Throwing you from 16 dice to 20-24.
  • Buy one drone to start off, use it to scout and randomly fuck peoples drones up. Use the rest of the money for BP exchange (50) and the 82bp left to make a combat person.

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Cardul
post Jan 21 2008, 09:07 AM
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Yeah, Seven-7..I kind of noticed that myself. I am not really sure. I just figure it was an error, and it was supposed to be 1 BP per rating, rating not to exceed Compiling.

What I am curious n is the whole thing about there not being an ability for Sprites to perceive the Matrix..I would think that, since there was no ability for them to perceive the 'Trix, and that they exist in the 'trix, that they could perceive it without there having to be an Errata allowing them to perceive the matrix.
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Seven-7
post Jan 21 2008, 09:23 AM
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Here's a quick fix: Drop Compiling from 4 to 0, gain 16Bp, drop the sprites, gain 20 more.

Throw 118 bp around as you wish.
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Fortune
post Jan 21 2008, 09:28 AM
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QUOTE (Cardul)
What I am curious n is the whole thing about there not being an ability for Sprites to perceive the Matrix..I would think that, since there was no ability for them to perceive the 'Trix, and that they exist in the 'trix, that they could perceive it without there having to be an Errata allowing them to perceive the matrix.

Very few of the Contacts in the NPC section have the Perception skill. They all live (at least part of the time) in the Physical world, yet they have no means to perceive it. Perception is not an automatic skill possessed by everyone. Perceiving the obvious does not require a test, but for less in-your-face stuff, you need to make the test.
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Cardul
post Jan 21 2008, 10:07 AM
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QUOTE (Fortune)

Very few of the Contacts in the NPC section have the Perception skill. They all live (at least part of the time) in the Physical world, yet they have no means to perceive it. Perception is not an automatic skill possessed by everyone. Perceiving the obvious does not require a test, but for less in-your-face stuff, you need to make the test.

Funny, Perception is not listed as a "No Default" skill, so...they can perceive, they are just like most people RL: go through their days and will watch the person wrapping their sandwich up and ask if they had enough stuff to make a sandwich, or will go through the red light because they did not notice it was red while they saw the green arrow on the turn lane light.
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Fortune
post Jan 21 2008, 10:26 AM
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Similarly, so can Sprites default. That was basically my point. What's yours?
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FrankTrollman
post Jan 21 2008, 10:59 AM
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Ah. See my point is that a Matrix Perception test is Anlysis (attribute) + Computer (skill). And if you don't have either because you are a Fault sprite, you're defaulting on both, which gives you a -2 dicepool on top of nothing. No no, they can't perceive the Matrix, they are quite useless as written.

-Frank
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Cardul
post Jan 21 2008, 11:15 AM
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QUOTE (FrankTrollman)
Ah. See my point is that a Matrix Perception test is Anlysis (attribute) + Computer (skill). And if you don't have either because you are a Fault sprite, you're defaulting on both, which gives you a -2 dicepool on top of nothing. No no, they can't perceive the Matrix, they are quite useless as written.

-Frank

I think it is more that they cannot do things that would require a perception roll. I do not think they are precisely totally useless. Does the Hacker need to make a perception roll to see the IC infront of him? No. Perception is just for Surprise and noticing things out of whack. At least, that is how I had kind of thought it was, anyway.
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FrankTrollman
post Jan 21 2008, 11:20 AM
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QUOTE
Does the Hacker need to make a perception roll to see the IC infront of him?


Yes.

QUOTE (SR4 @ p. 229)
Not all icons are what they appear to be-to tell what something really is, you need to analyze it with a Matrix Perception Test


QUOTE (SR4 @ p. 217)
As a rule, anything running a Stealth program is considered to be hiding.


Yeah, no Matrix Perception dicepool means that you are completely boned.

-Frank
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Cardul
post Jan 21 2008, 12:39 PM
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QUOTE (FrankTrollman)
QUOTE
Does the Hacker need to make a perception roll to see the IC infront of him?


Yes.

QUOTE (SR4 @ p. 229)
Not all icons are what they appear to be-to tell what something really is, you need to analyze it with a Matrix Perception Test


QUOTE (SR4 @ p. 217)
As a rule, anything running a Stealth program is considered to be hiding.


Yeah, no Matrix Perception dicepool means that you are completely boned.

-Frank

*hmmms* OK so you are saying this happens:

IC appears infront of hacker. He manages to score no Hits on his matrix perception test. It attacks his Persona, but, since he failed to pass his Matrix Perception test, he cannot say "Oh..this is IC."

In fact, you are saying that if it appears right in front of him, is not running under stealth, he cannot see it? And that the same applies to a Sprite that does not have one of the two abilities that give them the ability to make a matrix perception test?

I am typing this from wrk. I have this big, huge marble counter right in front of me. Are you saying that for me to be able to see that counter by the RAW, I need to make a regular Perception Test?

If my Sprite or I go into a node, are you saying that both would need to make a Matric Perception Test to see the architecture as programmed int the node? That otherwise, we just see a big floating expanse of nothing if we fail to make this test?

I'm srry, but if something is hitting me, and and ding damage to me(whether it is known that it is to my meat or my persona is beside the point) I think I am going to know that it is IC.
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Fortune
post Jan 21 2008, 12:44 PM
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QUOTE (FrankTrollman)
Ah. See my point is that a Matrix Perception test is Anlysis (attribute) + Computer (skill). And if you don't have either because you are a Fault sprite, you're defaulting on both, which gives you a -2 dicepool on top of nothing.

Why wouldn't you just default to Rating/Force/Whatever -1?
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FrankTrollman
post Jan 21 2008, 02:40 PM
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QUOTE (Fortune)
QUOTE (FrankTrollman @ Jan 21 2008, 08:59 PM)
Ah. See my point is that a Matrix Perception test is Anlysis (attribute) + Computer (skill). And if you don't have either because you are a Fault sprite, you're defaulting on both, which gives you a -2 dicepool on top of nothing.

Why wouldn't you just default to Rating/Force/Whatever -1?

Because the attribute defined for Matrix Perception is the Analyze program. Without it you have no attribute. Now, the FAQ says that if you don't have the appropriate program you are allowed to Default on it. But the attribute defined for it is Logic, which the Fault Sprite also does not have!

So you check:
  • Analyze Program (fail: -1 to test)
  • Computer Skill (fail: -1 to test)
  • (arguably) Logic Attribute (fail: -1 to test)
So your dicepool is somewhere between negative 1 and negative three if you are allowed to test at all, which seems extremely unlikely in the first place.

QUOTE
In fact, you are saying that if it appears right in front of him, is not running under stealth, he cannot see it? And that the same applies to a Sprite that does not have one of the two abilities that give them the ability to make a matrix perception test?


No. I'm saying that the Matrix is not like normal space. There is no true "in front of" or "right next to" - that's all metaphor. There are hundreds of thousands of icons in any and every node. And if you cannot make a Matrix Perception test you cannot determine which is which.

The Stealth Program is the defense pool in combat. Any matrix combat icon including a fault sprite is running one 24/7. Then, by the rules in order to target it, you have to win against it in an opposed Perception vs (Firewall + Stealth) test.

So yeah, any icon with a defense pool of any kind automatically defeats a Fault Sprite. Eventually it will be able to find the Fault Sprite and then it will start attacking. The Fault Sprite can never find the source of its discontent and will eventually be destroyed.

-Frank
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Ryu
post Jan 21 2008, 04:08 PM
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If I was playing a TM I´d argue that a matrix attribute would have to be used for defaulting in this case. The sprites rating would be most appropiate, IMO.

Not that it adds any real chance of detecting a dedicated hacker.
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Cheops
post Jan 22 2008, 02:47 AM
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QUOTE (FrankTrollman)
No. I'm saying that the Matrix is not like normal space. There is no true "in front of" or "right next to" - that's all metaphor. There are hundreds of thousands of icons in any and every node. And if you cannot make a Matrix Perception test you cannot determine which is which.

The Stealth Program is the defense pool in combat. Any matrix combat icon including a fault sprite is running one 24/7. Then, by the rules in order to target it, you have to win against it in an opposed Perception vs (Firewall + Stealth) test.

Minor nitpick: unless you are a program or node (and a fault sprite is neither) then you roll Hacking + Stealth to hide.

QUOTE
BBB 217
If you wish to specifically examine an arrow, dot, or other
Matrix object—users, programs, IC, nodes, files, etc.—take a
Simple Action to Observe in Detail (p. 136). Make a Matrix
Perception test using your Computer + Analyze program
(rather than Perception + Intuition). The gamemaster sets
the threshold according to the difficulty of the situation (see
Perception Test Thresholds, p. 117).


Umm...I suppose this can come down to a matter of interpretation but to me, this looks like Matrix Perception works exactly the same as Physical Perception. It is the same action with the same thresholds and the same modifiers. But hold on, one might argue, this is not the VR matrix perception area that I just quoted:

QUOTE
BBB 229
The simsense signal from the sim module translates the complex
code structures of the actual Matrix into graphical icons and
other sensory data (including emotions). Every object you see in
full VR is an icon. These icons represent programs, devices, systems,
and other users. Everything experienced in full VR is a symbolic
representation. Not all icons are what they appear to be—to
tell what something really is, you need to analyze it with a Matrix
Perception Test (see p. 217).


Well, the way I read this is that VR Matrix Perception is identical to AR Perception. You can see all the icons in VR without making a test but you don't know what they really are. So if you see a chair in VR it looks and acts like a chair--no test required. But until you make a VR Perception test or sit in it you won't know that it is a Black IC that kills anyone that sits in it.

So the fault sprite can see the chair but would not be able to determine that it is a threat until it is actually a threat (no chance to avoid surprise). Likewise for a Hacker without Computer and Analyze.

Finally just to be thorough:

QUOTE
BBB 117
Gamemasters should limit their uses of Perception Tests,
only calling for them when something is not immediately
noticeable or when a situation is so hectic that certain things
might be overlooked.


So a GM shouldn't make you roll a Perception test to notice that someone is attacking you but he should make you roll one to see if you notice the distinctive tattoo on his arm as he kills you. Ditto for AR/VR perception since they work exactly the same as normal Perception.
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Seven-7
post Jan 22 2008, 02:57 AM
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Yes, but since IC Stealth, what you are saying amounts to:


Guys, you don't always have to make your runners roll perception against hidden people, just assume they know where the hidden people are most of the time!


Which is wrong and very stupid.


QUOTE
only calling for them when something is not immediately noticeable
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Cheops
post Jan 22 2008, 03:16 AM
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QUOTE (Seven-7)
Yes, but since IC Stealth, what you are saying amounts to:


Guys, you don't always have to make your runners roll perception against hidden people, just assume they know where the hidden people are most of the time!


Which is wrong and very stupid.


QUOTE
only calling for them when something is not immediately noticeable

I never said you don't roll it when hidden.

Frank was suggesting that EVERYTHING in the Matrix is hidden. Which is partially true in VR. The true nature of everything is hidden. The only things that are actively hiding are those running Stealth.

Frank was also saying that AR/VR perception is NOT like physical perception but they ARE. Cardul was right with his example of his big marble desk. You don't need to make a Perception test to notice it. Now if it was hidden away in a corner and draped in Ruthenium Polymer then he would have to make a test to see it.

QUOTE
QUOTE 
In fact, you are saying that if it appears right in front of him, is not running under stealth, he cannot see it? And that the same applies to a Sprite that does not have one of the two abilities that give them the ability to make a matrix perception test?



No. I'm saying that the Matrix is not like normal space. There is no true "in front of" or "right next to" - that's all metaphor. There are hundreds of thousands of icons in any and every node. And if you cannot make a Matrix Perception test you cannot determine which is which.


Okay, on second reading I'll grant that he didn't actually say that you can't see the Icon. But I'm pretty sure you'd be able to tell the difference between the IC w/o Stealth attacking you and the Spreadsheet File that is sitting in the filing cabinet. I will also argue that there is in fact a true "in front of" or "right next to." That is all defined by the Matrix Topology of the node you are accessing.

Also note that you don't need to have an Access ID of your target in order to attack it. You just have to have Matrix LOS. So even if you don't know that that is an IC attacking you, it is hostile, and you can see it so you can attack back.

Yes, Fault Sprites are still boned by Stealth but they are not useless because they can still see everything else. Although you are much better off getting them to attack passive icons than engage in cybercombat.
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Nightwalker450
post Jan 22 2008, 03:51 AM
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I just noticed this forum and I was working on a "Pokemancer" myself. Here's what I got so far.

[ Spoiler ]


Basically give the technomancer analyze, or compile a courier sprite to act as sentry. He can spot things, then point the other sprites in the right direction. "Attack sector 1000101101, its not a chair!". Your own not having stealth isn't an issue (only ones without are Data and Machine anyways), you just temp dismiss them until they are needed.

QUOTE ("BBB pg 234")
In game terms, sprites are very similar to agents (p. 227).  Each sprite has a rating that is equivalent to the Pilot rating on an agent.


Is this supposed to mean that like agents they all are supposed to come with Computer, Cybercombat, Data Search, and Hacking, and has a Logic/Intuition/Willpower = Pilot? Thats the definition of what a Pilot gives you, or are they just equivilant in that both use numbers (instead of colors, or fruit) to define them? Also would they be like agents, in able to carry a payload, such as My analyze complex form, or maybe just an analyze program?
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Jaid
post Jan 22 2008, 04:02 AM
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not much is clear in the matrix rules, but it is clear that resonance-based matrix entities cannot load or run non-resonance matrix stuff, and vice versa.

also, you can't just hand off your analyze complex form... it's a part of you, not just a matrix object you can pass around. if you could do that, it would be possible to buy complex forms from other technomancers, for example (or borrow them from your sprites), and that would just be weird.
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Cheops
post Jan 22 2008, 04:13 AM
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QUOTE (Jaid)
not much is clear in the matrix rules, but it is clear that resonance-based matrix entities cannot load or run non-resonance matrix stuff, and vice versa.

also, you can't just hand off your analyze complex form... it's a part of you, not just a matrix object you can pass around. if you could do that, it would be possible to buy complex forms from other technomancers, for example (or borrow them from your sprites), and that would just be weird.

and horribly broken
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Fortune
post Jan 22 2008, 04:15 AM
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QUOTE (Nightwalker450 @ Jan 22 2008, 01:51 PM)
QUOTE ("BBB pg 234")
In game terms, sprites are very similar to agents (p. 227).  Each sprite has a rating that is equivalent to the Pilot rating on an agent.


Is this supposed to mean that like agents they all are supposed to come with Computer, Cybercombat, Data Search, and Hacking, and has a Logic/Intuition/Willpower = Pilot? Thats the definition of what a Pilot gives you, or are they just equivilant in that both use numbers (instead of colors, or fruit) to define them?

My take is that if an Agent can do something, either naturally (without programs or autosofts) or by defaulting, then a Sprite can probably do the same.
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djinni
post Jan 22 2008, 04:28 AM
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QUOTE (Cheops)
and horribly broken

no more than a hacker getting all his rating 6 programs for free
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Nightwalker450
post Jan 22 2008, 04:29 AM
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Question on Sprites/Technomancer Riggers

Since it is skill + Device Attribute, do these affect Technomancers/Sprites as well? So a Machine Sprite would roll Vehicle + (Device's) Response, instead of Rating x 2.
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Jaid
post Jan 22 2008, 05:04 PM
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machine sprites have the command CF. they can operate the device using the "control device" matrix action, which means they would roll command CF + autosoft rating, both of which will be at a rating equal to their own rating... and thus, they would be rolling double their rating anyways ;)

i suppose you could allow them to roll the vehicle's response instead, but i don't really see that as making sense... those are the rules for riggers, and strictly speaking sprites and pilots don't rig anything, as there is certainly no simsense involved.
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