Hey, everyone. I'm new to the dumpshock forums, so I just wanted to introduce myself. Also, I was looking for help with creating my character. I was browsing the sample characters here on the forum and didn't quite find what I was looking for so I figured I'd just ask. I haven't played SR in like 15 years, with the exception of a couple of MUDs in the interim just to get my fix. I've never played SR4 at all, so this is a big change as well. Anyway, my character concept is a cyberninja. I'm thinking Snake Eyes from G.I. Joe with some 'ware. Or maybe Raiden from MGS4. Inspiration from those two at least. So, can anyone help me out?
I want to focus on speed primarily. Extra init passes, and high agility. Blades high, of course, also some firearms. Cybereyes are likely. I'm still on the fence for wired reflexes or move-by-wire. High infiltration skills, and etc. Metatype human (mostly just to save the BPs for other stuff). Anyone have any good builds for this? The Covert Ops specialist seemed to be lacking in the SR4A book. I have access to every book, also, btw. And 400 BPs.
Full Version: New player needing help
QUOTE (Alucard @ Jun 6 2011, 07:48 PM) 
Hey, everyone. I'm new to the dumpshock forums, so I just wanted to introduce myself. Also, I was looking for help with creating my character. I was browsing the sample characters here on the forum and didn't quite find what I was looking for so I figured I'd just ask. I haven't played SR in like 15 years, with the exception of a couple of MUDs in the interim just to get my fix. I've never played SR4 at all, so this is a big change as well. Anyway, my character concept is a cyberninja. I'm thinking Snake Eyes from G.I. Joe with some 'ware. Or maybe Raiden from MGS4. Inspiration from those two at least. So, can anyone help me out?
I want to focus on speed primarily. Extra init passes, and high agility. Blades high, of course, also some firearms. Cybereyes are likely. I'm still on the fence for wired reflexes or move-by-wire. High infiltration skills, and etc. Metatype human (mostly just to save the BPs for other stuff). Anyone have any good builds for this? The Covert Ops specialist seemed to be lacking in the SR4A book. I have access to every book, also, btw. And 400 BPs.
I want to focus on speed primarily. Extra init passes, and high agility. Blades high, of course, also some firearms. Cybereyes are likely. I'm still on the fence for wired reflexes or move-by-wire. High infiltration skills, and etc. Metatype human (mostly just to save the BPs for other stuff). Anyone have any good builds for this? The Covert Ops specialist seemed to be lacking in the SR4A book. I have access to every book, also, btw. And 400 BPs.
First things first- set some priorties as to what you want to be good at. If you try to be equally good at being a combat monster and a infiltration specialist you will be so-so at both. You can be very good at one an good enough at the other to include it in your overall build. But are you a fighter who can also sneak or a sneaker who can also fight?
You have already answered the question of augmented vs. awakened in favor of augmented, which works fine.
Stats- Good agility and reaction are a must. If you are going blades try to keep strength up as well for melee damage. Wired reflexes will get your reaction up and give you more inititive passes. So will synaptic boosters as a much lower Essence chost, but its F--- All expenseive in terms of starting resoruces. Muscle toner under bioware will give you some extra agililty. Look seriously at Synthacardium. It adds to Althletics checks, which is very in line for a ninja/infiltration guy. Gymnastics under the athletics skills group can be subsituted for dodge when doing full defense, so its also a good way to get extra dodge dice.
Body is nice but you only have so many points to go around. Get what you can. If you want to empahsise the Infiltration aspect more then get at least a mid range logic as well. You will want the Hardware skill for maglocks/physical security systems, and you probably don't want to find that you dumped logic the first time you need to get through a locked door.
Skills: This is really where you have to start to choose your priority. I think a few points of the Althletics skill group either way, Blades of course, maybe pistols or automatics as a mid range level. Take the Stealth skill group at a mid range. From there you have to decide where to go. If you are primarily infiltration get the Stealth group at 4 and take Hardware and Locksmith as well. If you are more of a combat guy who can sneak a bit sink more points into your existing combat skills and maybe add some others (you could upgrade Blades to the Close Combat skill group if you wanted to be a master of all melee techniques, or add some unarmed to represent general martial ability).
It never hurts to have a secondary skill like first aid, demolitons, piloting, a couple of social skills, etc, that are not related to your "main thing." You are already doing this somewhat by covering the close combat/infiltration roles, but if you have enough points pick something unrealted up. Everyone should bring a few different abilities to the party. You won't be great at all of them but you want multiple compentencies whenever possible.
Budget enough points for two or three contacts. Everyone should be able to contribute to legwork and have some options for bringing in jobs.
Other than that, grab the core rule book and start adding up the points.
Thanks for the reply. Here's what I've got so far, as I'm working on it. Maybe some feedback?
Metatype: Human
Positive Qualities
Ambidextrous - 5
Negative Qualities
Addiction: BTL - 10
Flashbacks - 5
In Debt - 20
(I didn't want to max out negative qualities, but the character's backstory and my GM made it kind of necessary)
Attributes - 200 BP
Body 3
Agility 5
Reaction 3
Strength 3
Charisma 3
Intuition 4
Logic 4
Willpower 3
Free Knowledge Skills - 24
Now I'm going to start working on skills. Any suggestions? Also, for the record, I'm not looking to necessarily excel at either combat or infiltration, but a healthy mix of both. I'm having trouble deciding if I should use skill groups or individual skills. I can't specialize in skill groups, though, right?
Metatype: Human
Positive Qualities
Ambidextrous - 5
Negative Qualities
Addiction: BTL - 10
Flashbacks - 5
In Debt - 20
(I didn't want to max out negative qualities, but the character's backstory and my GM made it kind of necessary)
Attributes - 200 BP
Body 3
Agility 5
Reaction 3
Strength 3
Charisma 3
Intuition 4
Logic 4
Willpower 3
Free Knowledge Skills - 24
Now I'm going to start working on skills. Any suggestions? Also, for the record, I'm not looking to necessarily excel at either combat or infiltration, but a healthy mix of both. I'm having trouble deciding if I should use skill groups or individual skills. I can't specialize in skill groups, though, right?
Correct, you can't specialize. But, if you plan to use 3 or 4 skills in a group, you should get the group, and specialize/improve later. I agree with baronspam on his ideas, you really want to know if you prefer combat or infiltration, it can mean the difference between surviving a fight, and not getting in one in the first place. However, I will say that if ou focus on combat, you want at least minimal entrance ability, so hardware or locksmith at low ranks should be considered.
Remember that the BP chargen/Karma advancement ruleset favors specialization over generalist characters. It's more efficient from a character advancement perspective to max out one schtick rather than being mediocre at a large number of things.
That being said not every game is going to feature optimized characters and in many cases you'll have a lot of fun fielding a less than optimal strategy.
Keep in mind that for a melee specialist the Ork is a good metatype. It gets a good body and strength for a very minimal investment and doesn't penalize any major ability for melee/infiltration. Basically unless your GM is going to play with a ton of metahuman prejudice the Ork is a great start to virtually every build (something I personally dislike).
Skill Groups are expensive and subject to low caps as well as no specializations. That typically means that you are going to want your core schticks purchased seperately. Athletics is a good candidate for a skill group but I think for most games you can avoid Stealth and go with purchasing Infiltration and Shadowing separately. I actually like the Close Combat group for most characters but for a melee specialist you are probably going to need Blades up high. The other thing is if you are going to operate solo you probably need either social skills (Influence skill group) so you can bypass social obstacles or Electronics so you can bypass some common security features. If you are going to be working with a face or a hacker you can generally rely on them to do the heavy lifting but it's nice to have some overlap.
Even if you are going to be stealthy ninja guy realize that sooner or later you will want to shoot something, make sure you have a somewhat decent ranged weapon skill. Pistols are concealable, Bows are stealthy, long arms give you range, and automatics give you maximum dakka.
Take gear that makes you better in your core competencies. Synthacardium makes you a better athlete, wired makes you go faster, cybereyes allow you to operate in darkness, etc.
That being said not every game is going to feature optimized characters and in many cases you'll have a lot of fun fielding a less than optimal strategy.
Keep in mind that for a melee specialist the Ork is a good metatype. It gets a good body and strength for a very minimal investment and doesn't penalize any major ability for melee/infiltration. Basically unless your GM is going to play with a ton of metahuman prejudice the Ork is a great start to virtually every build (something I personally dislike).
Skill Groups are expensive and subject to low caps as well as no specializations. That typically means that you are going to want your core schticks purchased seperately. Athletics is a good candidate for a skill group but I think for most games you can avoid Stealth and go with purchasing Infiltration and Shadowing separately. I actually like the Close Combat group for most characters but for a melee specialist you are probably going to need Blades up high. The other thing is if you are going to operate solo you probably need either social skills (Influence skill group) so you can bypass social obstacles or Electronics so you can bypass some common security features. If you are going to be working with a face or a hacker you can generally rely on them to do the heavy lifting but it's nice to have some overlap.
Even if you are going to be stealthy ninja guy realize that sooner or later you will want to shoot something, make sure you have a somewhat decent ranged weapon skill. Pistols are concealable, Bows are stealthy, long arms give you range, and automatics give you maximum dakka.
Take gear that makes you better in your core competencies. Synthacardium makes you a better athlete, wired makes you go faster, cybereyes allow you to operate in darkness, etc.
Alright. So I've done active skills and contacts. All that's left are knowledge skilles and gear. I maxed out resources so I might be able to take some bp back if I need it, but for now I'll let it be. I'll give the breakdown of what I have so far.
Metatype: Human (0BP)
Positive Qualities (5 BP)
Ambidextrous -5
Negative Qualities (+35 BP)
Addiction: BTL +10
Flashbacks +5
In Debt +20
Attributes (200 BP)
Body - 3
Agility - 5
Reaction - 3
Strength - 3
Charisma - 3
Intuition - 4
Logic - 4
Willpower - 3
Free Knowledge Skills - 24
Active skills (164 BP +4 BP Specialities)
Blades (Swords) - 5 (+2)
Athletics Skill Group - 2
Infiltration (Urban) - 5 (+2)
Shadowing - 3
Automatics - 3
Pistols - 3
Dodge - 3
Pilot Ground - 2
Computer - 2
Data Search - 2
Locksmith - 2
Hardware - 3
Contacts (12 BP)
Fixer - Connections 4 / Loyalty 2
Street Doc - Connections 2 / Loyalty 4
Alright, so any suggestions on changes? Or the upcoming gear?
Metatype: Human (0BP)
Positive Qualities (5 BP)
Ambidextrous -5
Negative Qualities (+35 BP)
Addiction: BTL +10
Flashbacks +5
In Debt +20
Attributes (200 BP)
Body - 3
Agility - 5
Reaction - 3
Strength - 3
Charisma - 3
Intuition - 4
Logic - 4
Willpower - 3
Free Knowledge Skills - 24
Active skills (164 BP +4 BP Specialities)
Blades (Swords) - 5 (+2)
Athletics Skill Group - 2
Infiltration (Urban) - 5 (+2)
Shadowing - 3
Automatics - 3
Pistols - 3
Dodge - 3
Pilot Ground - 2
Computer - 2
Data Search - 2
Locksmith - 2
Hardware - 3
Contacts (12 BP)
Fixer - Connections 4 / Loyalty 2
Street Doc - Connections 2 / Loyalty 4
Alright, so any suggestions on changes? Or the upcoming gear?
A commlink is a must have. And with that, a decent firewall. Remember that firewalls aren`t restricted by the systeméresponse cap other programs are. Hmmm. As for programs, most characters will be able to use Browse and analyze. These are basically google and your virus scanner, but they serve other purposes, too.
For actual gear, you`ll want ear buds (with some audio enhancements), a sub-vocal mic for near-silant communication with your team, a tag eraser, and Radio signal Scanner (rating up to you, I usually go with R3). But, the tag eraser and signal scanner are only really important if the GM is going to use RFID tags against you (I would). Vision enhancements aren`t bad, either, especially ones that let you see in the dark, or at least low-light conditions.
You will need ID`s, probably 2 or 3, and be sure to get licenses for everything you will be carrying with those ID`s, generally.
as far as changes to the above I would consider getting a couple ranks in Ettiquette. It`s almost the social version of Infiltration, and can save you from major mishaps.
For actual gear, you`ll want ear buds (with some audio enhancements), a sub-vocal mic for near-silant communication with your team, a tag eraser, and Radio signal Scanner (rating up to you, I usually go with R3). But, the tag eraser and signal scanner are only really important if the GM is going to use RFID tags against you (I would). Vision enhancements aren`t bad, either, especially ones that let you see in the dark, or at least low-light conditions.
You will need ID`s, probably 2 or 3, and be sure to get licenses for everything you will be carrying with those ID`s, generally.
as far as changes to the above I would consider getting a couple ranks in Ettiquette. It`s almost the social version of Infiltration, and can save you from major mishaps.
Hey, thanks for the feedback. I've dropped Unarmed from 3 to 2, and Automatics from 3 to 2. Sacrificed some of my secondary combat utility to put those puts into giving me an ettiquette of two. I'm looking at the commlinks now.
Also, for my character concept, is a skinlink worthwhile?
Gear I know I want/need so far
Commlink
Chameleon Suit
Monofilament sword
Some sort of handgun with smartlink
Cybereyes (which will probably be Rating 3 with almost every option installed)
Earbuds (with at least damping, enhancement, recorder and sound link. Considering spation recognition and select sound filter. Maybe cyberears?)
Some form of initiative booster. I'd like to get synaptic boosters (I think?) from the bioware stuff but those are expensive. I'm also considering move-by-wire over wired reflexes. Anyone have an opinion on that?
Gecko tape gloves (for awesome spider-man or creepy ninja on the ceiling moments)
I was thinking an area jammer and white noise generator... are they worth it?
Also two fake SINs and licenses to go with them for any of my Restricted gear.
I have 270,000 nuyen to spend so far. So I should be able to take a few expensive enhancements. Let me know what you think.
Also, for my character concept, is a skinlink worthwhile?
Gear I know I want/need so far
Commlink
Chameleon Suit
Monofilament sword
Some sort of handgun with smartlink
Cybereyes (which will probably be Rating 3 with almost every option installed)
Earbuds (with at least damping, enhancement, recorder and sound link. Considering spation recognition and select sound filter. Maybe cyberears?)
Some form of initiative booster. I'd like to get synaptic boosters (I think?) from the bioware stuff but those are expensive. I'm also considering move-by-wire over wired reflexes. Anyone have an opinion on that?
Gecko tape gloves (for awesome spider-man or creepy ninja on the ceiling moments)
I was thinking an area jammer and white noise generator... are they worth it?
Also two fake SINs and licenses to go with them for any of my Restricted gear.
I have 270,000 nuyen to spend so far. So I should be able to take a few expensive enhancements. Let me know what you think.
Move-by-wire is useful, I`ve used it a couple times. The only trouble is the massive expense over Wired Reflexes. White Noise is useful when you don`t want to be overheard in a busy-ish public place, not something you are likely to focus on, with so few social skills. The area Jammer is occasionally helpful, usually for messing up an enemy hacker`s plans once you`ve been noticed on the run.
Skinlink is very helpful for using your gear with minimal chance of being hacked. Just remember to turn off your wireless, or at least run hidden mode, during a run. You may want to buy a kit (Tools, 332 SR4A) for use with your hardware skill.
I would also consider getting a Keycard copier, a couple maglock passkeys, and maybe a sequencer. An Autopicker is also helpful to your locksith skill when it comes up. These are the usual B&E equipment (335 SR4A) you`ll need to get into places illicitely.
Skinlink is very helpful for using your gear with minimal chance of being hacked. Just remember to turn off your wireless, or at least run hidden mode, during a run. You may want to buy a kit (Tools, 332 SR4A) for use with your hardware skill.
I would also consider getting a Keycard copier, a couple maglock passkeys, and maybe a sequencer. An Autopicker is also helpful to your locksith skill when it comes up. These are the usual B&E equipment (335 SR4A) you`ll need to get into places illicitely.
Alright, so I worked on it and this is what I've come up with. Let me know what you think. Feedback is greatly appreciated.
Metatype: Human
Attributes
Body 3
Agility 5 (8 )
Reaction 3 (7)
Strength 3 (6)
Charisma 3
Intuition 4
Logic 4 (6)
Willpower 3
Edge 2
Essence: 0.6
Initiative: 11
Initiative Passes: 3
Matrix Init: 9
Active Skills
Blades (Swords) 5 (+2)
Unarmed 2
Dodge 3 (5)
Pistols 3
Automatics 2
Athletics Skill Group 2
-Climbing 2
-Gymnastics 2
-Running 2
-Swimming 2
Infiltration (Urban) 5 (+2)
Shadowing 3
Etiquette 2
Computer 2
Electronic Warfare 2
Hardware 3
Locksmith 2
Pilot Ground Craft 2
Knowledge Skills
Safe Houses 2
Security Design 3
Security Procedures 3
Corporate Politics 2
Cyber Clinics 2
Matrix Security 3
Language Skills
English N
Japanese 3
German 2
Cantonese 2
Spanish 2
Qualities
Ambidextrous -5
Addiction (Moderate) BTL +10
Flashbacks (Uncommon) +5
In Debt +20
Lifestyle
Middle - 1 month
Contacts
Maurice "Butterball" May (Ork Fixer) Loyalty 2 / Connections 4
Dr. Naomi Perez (Human Street Doc) Loyalty 4 / Connections 2
Resources 50 BP (250,000 nuyen + 20,000 In Debt = 270,000 nuyen)
Augmentations
Move-By-Wire 2
Cybereyes Rating 3 (Eye Recorder, Flare Compensation, Image Link, Low Light Vision, Smartlink, Thermographic Vision, Vision Enhancement 2, Vision Magnification)
Cyberears Rating 3 (Increased Sensitivity, Audio Enhancement 3, Damper, Ear Recorder, Select Sound Filter 1, Sound Link, Spacial Recognizer, Balance Augmenter)
Muscle Augmentation 3
Muscle toner 3
Cerebral Booster 2
Weapons
2 x Colt Manhunter w/integral Smartgun System and Silencer
10 x spare clips Regular Ammo
10 x spare clips EX-explosive Ammo
10 x spare clips Stick-n-Shock Ammo
Ares Alpha w/integral Smartgun system and sound suppressor
10 x spare clips Regular Ammo
Monofilament Sword (Ninja-to styled)
Shock Gloves
Armor and Clothing
Chameleon Suit w/Thermal Damping 4, Nonconductivity 3, Fire Resistance 1, Insulation 1
Full body Form-Fitting Body Armor
Helmet
SecureTech PPP-System (w/o helmet)
Lined Coat
Actioneer Business Clothes
Matrix Gear
Hermes Ikon Commlink w/Novatech Navi OS
Simrig (modified for BTL/Hot Sim)
AR gloves
Analyze 6
Browse 6
Edit 6
Command 6
Scan 6
Agent 3
Other Gear
Subvocal Mic
2 Fake SINs Rating 4
10 Fake Licenses Rating 4
Hardware Tool Kit
Tag Eraser
Radio Signal Scanner Rating 4
Autopicker Rating 5
Keycard Copier Rating 6
Maglock Passkey Rating 4
Sequencer Rating 4
Wire Clippers
Climbing Gear
Gas Mask
Gecko Tape Gloves
Rappeling Gloves
Grapple Gun
200m Stealth Rope
Catalyst Stick
Medkit Rating 6 (stocked)
2 x Hidden Arm Slides
2 x Concealed holsters
DocWagon Gold Membership (1 year)
Flash-pak
10 x Smoke Grenades
10 x Thermal Smoke Grenades
Left with 715 nuyen left, which I'm considering just blowing on skinlinks for all my external gear. Also, how does one put the "spoiler" thing on a post so that I can hide this unless someone wants to see it?
Metatype: Human
Attributes
Body 3
Agility 5 (8 )
Reaction 3 (7)
Strength 3 (6)
Charisma 3
Intuition 4
Logic 4 (6)
Willpower 3
Edge 2
Essence: 0.6
Initiative: 11
Initiative Passes: 3
Matrix Init: 9
Active Skills
Blades (Swords) 5 (+2)
Unarmed 2
Dodge 3 (5)
Pistols 3
Automatics 2
Athletics Skill Group 2
-Climbing 2
-Gymnastics 2
-Running 2
-Swimming 2
Infiltration (Urban) 5 (+2)
Shadowing 3
Etiquette 2
Computer 2
Electronic Warfare 2
Hardware 3
Locksmith 2
Pilot Ground Craft 2
Knowledge Skills
Safe Houses 2
Security Design 3
Security Procedures 3
Corporate Politics 2
Cyber Clinics 2
Matrix Security 3
Language Skills
English N
Japanese 3
German 2
Cantonese 2
Spanish 2
Qualities
Ambidextrous -5
Addiction (Moderate) BTL +10
Flashbacks (Uncommon) +5
In Debt +20
Lifestyle
Middle - 1 month
Contacts
Maurice "Butterball" May (Ork Fixer) Loyalty 2 / Connections 4
Dr. Naomi Perez (Human Street Doc) Loyalty 4 / Connections 2
Resources 50 BP (250,000 nuyen + 20,000 In Debt = 270,000 nuyen)
Augmentations
Move-By-Wire 2
Cybereyes Rating 3 (Eye Recorder, Flare Compensation, Image Link, Low Light Vision, Smartlink, Thermographic Vision, Vision Enhancement 2, Vision Magnification)
Cyberears Rating 3 (Increased Sensitivity, Audio Enhancement 3, Damper, Ear Recorder, Select Sound Filter 1, Sound Link, Spacial Recognizer, Balance Augmenter)
Muscle Augmentation 3
Muscle toner 3
Cerebral Booster 2
Weapons
2 x Colt Manhunter w/integral Smartgun System and Silencer
10 x spare clips Regular Ammo
10 x spare clips EX-explosive Ammo
10 x spare clips Stick-n-Shock Ammo
Ares Alpha w/integral Smartgun system and sound suppressor
10 x spare clips Regular Ammo
Monofilament Sword (Ninja-to styled)
Shock Gloves
Armor and Clothing
Chameleon Suit w/Thermal Damping 4, Nonconductivity 3, Fire Resistance 1, Insulation 1
Full body Form-Fitting Body Armor
Helmet
SecureTech PPP-System (w/o helmet)
Lined Coat
Actioneer Business Clothes
Matrix Gear
Hermes Ikon Commlink w/Novatech Navi OS
Simrig (modified for BTL/Hot Sim)
AR gloves
Analyze 6
Browse 6
Edit 6
Command 6
Scan 6
Agent 3
Other Gear
Subvocal Mic
2 Fake SINs Rating 4
10 Fake Licenses Rating 4
Hardware Tool Kit
Tag Eraser
Radio Signal Scanner Rating 4
Autopicker Rating 5
Keycard Copier Rating 6
Maglock Passkey Rating 4
Sequencer Rating 4
Wire Clippers
Climbing Gear
Gas Mask
Gecko Tape Gloves
Rappeling Gloves
Grapple Gun
200m Stealth Rope
Catalyst Stick
Medkit Rating 6 (stocked)
2 x Hidden Arm Slides
2 x Concealed holsters
DocWagon Gold Membership (1 year)
Flash-pak
10 x Smoke Grenades
10 x Thermal Smoke Grenades
Left with 715 nuyen left, which I'm considering just blowing on skinlinks for all my external gear. Also, how does one put the "spoiler" thing on a post so that I can hide this unless someone wants to see it?
Well, don't have my books handy, but it looks like you have three pieces of gear that nead Restricted Gear Qualities (unless you have less stringent requirements)...
The MBW II, Muscle Toner 3, and Muscle Augmentation 3 are all above availability 12 (IIRC).
The MBW II, Muscle Toner 3, and Muscle Augmentation 3 are all above availability 12 (IIRC).
Yeah. You're right. I'm a moron. LOL Thanks for keeping an eye out for me! So here it is fixed.
Metatype: Human
Attributes
Body 3
Agility 5 (8 )
Reaction 3 (7)
Strength 3 (6)
Charisma 2
Intuition 4
Logic 4 (6)
Willpower 3
Edge 2
Essence: 0.6
Initiative: 11
Initiative Passes: 3
Matrix Init: 9
Active Skills
Blades (Swords) 5 (+2)
Unarmed 2
Dodge 3 (5)
Pistols 3
Automatics 2
Athletics Skill Group 2
-Climbing 2
-Gymnastics 2
-Running 2
-Swimming 2
Infiltration (Urban) 5 (+2)
Shadowing 3
Etiquette 2
Computer 2
Electronic Warfare 2
Hardware 3
Locksmith 2
Pilot Ground Craft 1
Knowledge Skills
Safe Houses 2
Security Design 3
Security Procedures 3
Corporate Politics 2
Cyber Clinics 2
Matrix Security 3
Language Skills
English N
Japanese 3
German 2
Cantonese 2
Spanish 2
Qualities
Ambidextrous -5
Restricted Gear (Move-By-Wire) -5
Restricted Gear (Muscle Augmentation) -5
Restricted Gear (Muscle Toner) -5
Addiction (Moderate) BTL +10
Flashbacks (Uncommon) +5
In Debt +20
Lifestyle
Middle - 1 month
Contacts
Maurice "Butterball" May (Ork Fixer) Loyalty 2 / Connections 4
Dr. Naomi Perez (Human Street Doc) Loyalty 3 / Connections 2
Resources 50 BP (250,000 nuyen + 20,000 In Debt = 270,000 nuyen)
Augmentations
Move-By-Wire 2
Cybereyes Rating 3 (Eye Recorder, Flare Compensation, Image Link, Low Light Vision, Smartlink, Thermographic Vision, Vision Enhancement 2, Vision Magnification)
Cyberears Rating 3 (Increased Sensitivity, Audio Enhancement 3, Damper, Ear Recorder, Select Sound Filter 1, Sound Link, Spacial Recognizer, Balance Augmenter)
Muscle Augmentation 3
Muscle toner 3
Cerebral Booster 2
Weapons
2 x Colt Manhunter w/integral Smartgun System and Silencer
10 x spare clips Regular Ammo
10 x spare clips EX-explosive Ammo
10 x spare clips Stick-n-Shock Ammo
Ares Alpha w/integral Smartgun system and sound suppressor
10 x spare clips Regular Ammo
Monofilament Sword (Ninja-to styled)
Shock Gloves
Armor and Clothing
Chameleon Suit w/Thermal Damping 4, Nonconductivity 3, Fire Resistance 1, Insulation 1
Full body Form-Fitting Body Armor
Helmet
SecureTech PPP-System (w/o helmet)
Lined Coat
Actioneer Business Clothes
Matrix Gear
Hermes Ikon Commlink w/Novatech Navi OS
Simrig (modified for BTL/Hot Sim)
AR gloves
Analyze 6
Browse 6
Edit 6
Command 6
Scan 6
Agent 3
Other Gear
Subvocal Mic
2 Fake SINs Rating 4
10 Fake Licenses Rating 4
Hardware Tool Kit
Tag Eraser
Radio Signal Scanner Rating 4
Autopicker Rating 5
Keycard Copier Rating 6
Maglock Passkey Rating 4
Sequencer Rating 4
Wire Clippers
Climbing Gear
Gas Mask
Gecko Tape Gloves
Rappeling Gloves
Grapple Gun
200m Stealth Rope
Catalyst Stick
Medkit Rating 6 (stocked)
2 x Hidden Arm Slides
2 x Concealed holsters
DocWagon Gold Membership (1 year)
Flash-pak
10 x Smoke Grenades
10 x Thermal Smoke Grenades
Took one point from Charisma to give me ten BP, then one off of Pilot Ground Craft giving me an additional 4, and then knocked Dr. Naomi's loyalty down by a point to give me a total of 15 BPs used on Restricted Gear.
Metatype: Human
Attributes
Body 3
Agility 5 (8 )
Reaction 3 (7)
Strength 3 (6)
Charisma 2
Intuition 4
Logic 4 (6)
Willpower 3
Edge 2
Essence: 0.6
Initiative: 11
Initiative Passes: 3
Matrix Init: 9
Active Skills
Blades (Swords) 5 (+2)
Unarmed 2
Dodge 3 (5)
Pistols 3
Automatics 2
Athletics Skill Group 2
-Climbing 2
-Gymnastics 2
-Running 2
-Swimming 2
Infiltration (Urban) 5 (+2)
Shadowing 3
Etiquette 2
Computer 2
Electronic Warfare 2
Hardware 3
Locksmith 2
Pilot Ground Craft 1
Knowledge Skills
Safe Houses 2
Security Design 3
Security Procedures 3
Corporate Politics 2
Cyber Clinics 2
Matrix Security 3
Language Skills
English N
Japanese 3
German 2
Cantonese 2
Spanish 2
Qualities
Ambidextrous -5
Restricted Gear (Move-By-Wire) -5
Restricted Gear (Muscle Augmentation) -5
Restricted Gear (Muscle Toner) -5
Addiction (Moderate) BTL +10
Flashbacks (Uncommon) +5
In Debt +20
Lifestyle
Middle - 1 month
Contacts
Maurice "Butterball" May (Ork Fixer) Loyalty 2 / Connections 4
Dr. Naomi Perez (Human Street Doc) Loyalty 3 / Connections 2
Resources 50 BP (250,000 nuyen + 20,000 In Debt = 270,000 nuyen)
Augmentations
Move-By-Wire 2
Cybereyes Rating 3 (Eye Recorder, Flare Compensation, Image Link, Low Light Vision, Smartlink, Thermographic Vision, Vision Enhancement 2, Vision Magnification)
Cyberears Rating 3 (Increased Sensitivity, Audio Enhancement 3, Damper, Ear Recorder, Select Sound Filter 1, Sound Link, Spacial Recognizer, Balance Augmenter)
Muscle Augmentation 3
Muscle toner 3
Cerebral Booster 2
Weapons
2 x Colt Manhunter w/integral Smartgun System and Silencer
10 x spare clips Regular Ammo
10 x spare clips EX-explosive Ammo
10 x spare clips Stick-n-Shock Ammo
Ares Alpha w/integral Smartgun system and sound suppressor
10 x spare clips Regular Ammo
Monofilament Sword (Ninja-to styled)
Shock Gloves
Armor and Clothing
Chameleon Suit w/Thermal Damping 4, Nonconductivity 3, Fire Resistance 1, Insulation 1
Full body Form-Fitting Body Armor
Helmet
SecureTech PPP-System (w/o helmet)
Lined Coat
Actioneer Business Clothes
Matrix Gear
Hermes Ikon Commlink w/Novatech Navi OS
Simrig (modified for BTL/Hot Sim)
AR gloves
Analyze 6
Browse 6
Edit 6
Command 6
Scan 6
Agent 3
Other Gear
Subvocal Mic
2 Fake SINs Rating 4
10 Fake Licenses Rating 4
Hardware Tool Kit
Tag Eraser
Radio Signal Scanner Rating 4
Autopicker Rating 5
Keycard Copier Rating 6
Maglock Passkey Rating 4
Sequencer Rating 4
Wire Clippers
Climbing Gear
Gas Mask
Gecko Tape Gloves
Rappeling Gloves
Grapple Gun
200m Stealth Rope
Catalyst Stick
Medkit Rating 6 (stocked)
2 x Hidden Arm Slides
2 x Concealed holsters
DocWagon Gold Membership (1 year)
Flash-pak
10 x Smoke Grenades
10 x Thermal Smoke Grenades
Took one point from Charisma to give me ten BP, then one off of Pilot Ground Craft giving me an additional 4, and then knocked Dr. Naomi's loyalty down by a point to give me a total of 15 BPs used on Restricted Gear.
I'd drop the muscle augmentation to rating 2, for rating 4 muscle toner. You don't get anything from having 6 strength over what 5 would do, and extra agility is always useful.
Alright. So that won't reduce the damage I do in melee? I'm still reading the rules, and such, so I don't really know. I assumed that melee damage would be like my strength plus the weapon, since this seems to be mostly just like the old WoD system. Even then, though, I might be able to really spare a point of damage if it's really worth it. Plus that would take my agility to the max augmented. Hmm.
QUOTE (Alucard @ Jun 7 2011, 05:03 PM)
Alright. So that won't reduce the damage I do in melee? I'm still reading the rules, and such, so I don't really know. I assumed that melee damage would be like my strength plus the weapon, since this seems to be mostly just like the old WoD system. Even then, though, I might be able to really spare a point of damage if it's really worth it. Plus that would take my agility to the max augmented. Hmm.
Damage for Melee Weapons/Unarmed is Strength/2 (Round up)... So a Strength 5 and 6 both have a base DV of 3.
Thanks, a lot, Tymeaus. Honestly you've all been pretty awesome and I don't think I could have made this character even halfway appropriately without the feedback and guidance. I went ahead and dropped the muscle augmentation down one and raised the muscle toner. Had to trim some extra ammo (which I spent a ton on, anyway), to make up the extra grand. But it freed up 5 BP since that put my muscle augmentation back in the range of availability, so I didn't need a restricted gear quality for it. So I boosted my automatics skill and replaced the point I took from my contacts.
I think you're missing a really crucial skill, Perception. Drop the pistols or automatics skill (I'd recommend dropping automatics, based on your concept) and pick up Perception...
*edit* and squeeze in the Attention Coprocessor cyberware, iirc it's relatively cheap and a good boost to Perception
*edit* and squeeze in the Attention Coprocessor cyberware, iirc it's relatively cheap and a good boost to Perception
I'd Drop the Stock Commlink and get something a little bit better, remember programs can only be run at ratings higher then system if they have optimize option (Firewall is an exception).
If your not running a hacker or rigger these commlinks will do fine.
Commlink for the Budget Conscious Runner
Novatech Airware w/ Iris Orb OS (2250¥)
Response-3
System-3
Signal-3
Firewall-3
Resident Program (Analyze-3)
Resident Program (Encrypt-3)
ARC-Terminate Connection
Common Use Programs (900¥)
Analyze-3
Encrypt-3
Command-3
Browse-3
Scan-3
Edit-3
Commlink for the Paranoid Runner
Novatech Airware w/ Custom OS (4850¥)
Response-3
System-3
Signal-3
Firewall-6
Resident Program (Analyze-6)
Resident Program (Encrypt-6)
ARC-Terminate Connection
Common Use Programs (2600¥)
*Analyze-6
*Encrypt-6
Command-3
Edit-3
Browse-3
Scan-3
* (Optimization-3, Ergonomic) Options
Commlink for the Veteran Runner
Custom Novatech Airware w/ Custom OS (11750¥)
Response-5
System-5
Signal-5
Firewall-6
Resident Program (Analyze-6)
Resident Program (Encrypt-6)
ARC-Terminate Connection
Unrestriced Agent-3 (3600¥)
Common Use Programs (3450¥)
*Analyze-6
Command-3
*Encrypt-6
*Browse-6
Edit-3
Scan-3
* (Optimization-3, Ergonomic) Options
If your not running a hacker or rigger these commlinks will do fine.
Commlink for the Budget Conscious Runner
Novatech Airware w/ Iris Orb OS (2250¥)
Response-3
System-3
Signal-3
Firewall-3
Resident Program (Analyze-3)
Resident Program (Encrypt-3)
ARC-Terminate Connection
Common Use Programs (900¥)
Analyze-3
Encrypt-3
Command-3
Browse-3
Scan-3
Edit-3
Commlink for the Paranoid Runner
Novatech Airware w/ Custom OS (4850¥)
Response-3
System-3
Signal-3
Firewall-6
Resident Program (Analyze-6)
Resident Program (Encrypt-6)
ARC-Terminate Connection
Common Use Programs (2600¥)
*Analyze-6
*Encrypt-6
Command-3
Edit-3
Browse-3
Scan-3
* (Optimization-3, Ergonomic) Options
Commlink for the Veteran Runner
Custom Novatech Airware w/ Custom OS (11750¥)
Response-5
System-5
Signal-5
Firewall-6
Resident Program (Analyze-6)
Resident Program (Encrypt-6)
ARC-Terminate Connection
Unrestriced Agent-3 (3600¥)
Common Use Programs (3450¥)
*Analyze-6
Command-3
*Encrypt-6
*Browse-6
Edit-3
Scan-3
* (Optimization-3, Ergonomic) Options
Commlink rolls Firewall + Analyze (Resident Program) to detect hacking attempts, then the hacker would have to break encryption, so the last two commlinks I posted are as unhackable as your going to get in SR4, with a starting character
Awesome. I honestly don't know how I managed to miss perception. I've looked through skills a million times, but yeah, that's very crucial I'd say. Definitely dropping automatics and taking that instead. Not sure about the attention co-processor yet. I'm sitting at 0.6 Essence and worried about trying to get healed. As for the commlink advice that's really cool. I haven't looked too much into the commlink and matrix/program stuff yet, so I was just kind of looking at the list in the equipment section and running on what seemed feasible. Had no clue that I could have a custom OS. Again, guys, I seriously cannot thank you all enough. Keep it coming!
Also, what's the whole "*(Optimization -3, Ergonomic) Options" thing mean?
Also, what's the whole "*(Optimization -3, Ergonomic) Options" thing mean?
QUOTE (Alucard @ Jun 8 2011, 05:15 AM)
Awesome. I honestly don't know how I managed to miss perception. I've looked through skills a million times, but yeah, that's very crucial I'd say. Definitely dropping automatics and taking that instead. Not sure about the attention co-processor yet. I'm sitting at 0.6 Essence and worried about trying to get healed. As for the commlink advice that's really cool. I haven't looked too much into the commlink and matrix/program stuff yet, so I was just kind of looking at the list in the equipment section and running on what seemed feasible. Had no clue that I could have a custom OS. Again, guys, I seriously cannot thank you all enough. Keep it coming!
Also, what's the whole "*(Optimization -3, Ergonomic) Options" thing mean?
Also, what's the whole "*(Optimization -3, Ergonomic) Options" thing mean?
It's from Unwired, If a Program is Optimized it can run at a Higher rating then the Commlink's System rating would normally allow. Example if you have a Analyze Rating 6 program running on a Commlink with System rating 3, the program would normally only be able to run at Rating 3. That same Analyze program (Optimization-3) lets you run it 3 levels higher then normal so It could run at Rating 6 on a System 3 or Rating 5 on a System 2 Commlink. Ergonomic means program does not take up as much resources on your commlink so you can run more programs, without your response taking a hit. Both program options for Common use programs are pretty cheap, so they are worth it.
Also, if your character is not a Hacker/Rigger, your not going to need a Hot Sim modified commlink.
Honestly, the only time I ever thought I'd need to hack might be to bypass security measures. Do something like run false security camera feed or something along those lines. Hacking isn't a necessity, since I think one of the other characters is occupying a hacker/face role. I only got the modification to run BTL chips, since my character is pretty addicted to them. That's an addiction/quality that's story driven and not mechanics crunching, so it has to stick. But if I don't need that to run BTL chips I could save the nuyen.
Yeah, BTLs make use of the over-stimulation of Hot Sim, so it might be necessary.
Your character seems to be a combat specialist. I would raise Body to increase survivability. And to allow for more armor without encumbrance.
Body 3 is fine, in 4th ed. average is rating 2-3. Having a higher reaction is more important, being able to not get hit in the first place is better.
He does bring up a good point, though. Honestly, I'd love to increase his body by two points, at least. Then I could wear my form-fitting body armor under my chameleon suit without incuring penalties to my reaction and agility or whatever. My problem is that... I could trim some equipment down and make the money to do it, but I don't have the essence to afford any of the mods (that I know of, at least) to increase my body. I wouldn't be able to afford alphaware M-B-W, and the reduction of used essence for my other 'ware is all negligible enough that I kinda feel that it's really not worth paying double the price for it. I dunno. I'm still open to suggestions, but as it stands I'm content with my body only being 3. Ideally it would be at least 5, but the way I see it, I have time to make the money to by alpha/beta 'ware later and then get myself some bone density augmenting.
I'd say, don't worry about squeezing the last few dice out of anything - you can get caught up forever in this min/maxing of a character to get the "best possible dice pool". Get something that's playable that has a fun concept, and go with it. A few dice either way won't wreck a character or make them so much better.
How are you doing on leftover BP?
I ask because a Suprathyroid is one of the only ways of getting more Body from ware. Its not everyone's favorite piece of ware, due to hits high essence cost (0.7), or its availability(20F).
It costs 45k(9bp), and another 5 in Restricted Gear just to get it - but it does give you +1 to all your physical stats, which gives it an effective value of 40BP. Its downside can be canceled out with the Vegsin treatment, from augmentation.(15k, i think). In this case, I'd recommend dropping the restricted gear for the muscle augmentation - its cheaper, and something to work towards getting in play.
Speaking of getting stuff in play, Black Market Pipeline: Wares (runner's companion) might be worth considering. It gives you a great, easily accessable way to upgrade your ware later, and your team will love you for it.
you may want to consider swapping to an ork with Human Looking, since you have extra points on your quality limit. You should come out ahead.
At the very least, in addition to what you already have, I'd recommend Stealth and Encrypt for your commlink - not sure about the agent. They're handy, and 9 dice is respectable, but you need to use unwired program options on the programs its carrying if you don't want their ratings reduced.
I ask because a Suprathyroid is one of the only ways of getting more Body from ware. Its not everyone's favorite piece of ware, due to hits high essence cost (0.7), or its availability(20F).
It costs 45k(9bp), and another 5 in Restricted Gear just to get it - but it does give you +1 to all your physical stats, which gives it an effective value of 40BP. Its downside can be canceled out with the Vegsin treatment, from augmentation.(15k, i think). In this case, I'd recommend dropping the restricted gear for the muscle augmentation - its cheaper, and something to work towards getting in play.
Speaking of getting stuff in play, Black Market Pipeline: Wares (runner's companion) might be worth considering. It gives you a great, easily accessable way to upgrade your ware later, and your team will love you for it.
you may want to consider swapping to an ork with Human Looking, since you have extra points on your quality limit. You should come out ahead.
At the very least, in addition to what you already have, I'd recommend Stealth and Encrypt for your commlink - not sure about the agent. They're handy, and 9 dice is respectable, but you need to use unwired program options on the programs its carrying if you don't want their ratings reduced.
Phlapjack77, you're absolutely right. I agree whole heartedly. I'm not so much trying to min/max the character, but more optimize him, statistically. But yeah, one extra die here and there, it doesn't amount to much, and the dice pools I have as of now are more than acceptable for what my character does, which is essentially, get in some place without anyone knowing, possibly kill someone or another, and get out. Or possibly get in, get connected to a node and let my agent or my hacker get some data, and get out. In a pinch. In theory. LOL
Udoshi, I'm maxed out on my BP, but I'm flexible and have been able to shift things around. As for the cost of any enhancements, I can afford them. I spent the maximum amount of BP into resources, and then took 20 points of in debt to boost it. I've used up most of that money, but I can still adjust things here and there to make way for things. In short, I can afford damn near everything.
Except for 0.7 essence, unfortunately. I only have 0.6. Suprathyroid is pretty awesome honestly. Though having my character eat a lot would be kind of odd for him.
Here's what the story of the character is, in a very basic nutshell.
X (haven't named him yet) once had a very average life. He had a halfway decent job working for some subsidiary of some megacorp. He was a nobody, but he made a decent living (middle lifestyle, most likely). He had a fairly decent social life, with decent, regular friends, and he had a girlfriend whom he lived with and was completely in love with. One day, he met a guy at a bar. Not a seedy club, or anything. Think of like a college bar, or a pub and grill kinda place. Guy seemed nice enough. Said he knew easy ways for him to earn cash on the side. All he had to do was record his everyday humdum life. Especially the parts with his girlfriend. Said a lot of people would pay a lot of good nuyen just to get a taste of the domestic life of bliss he had. So, he wound up recording his home life with his girlfriend for BTL chips for this guy. The guy would come to him with client requests sometimes. Have her wear this. Take her to this restaraunt. All on the client, of course. One day, the guy had a client request for X to take his girl out to a picnic under the Arch (This is in St. Louis, btw). Nothing special, just have a happy, relaxed picnic under the arch and enjoy each other's company, and record it all for him. They were ambushed in the park by a gang. The gangers tortured and dismembered X, and took turns on his girl, until they (presumably) killed her. X passed into unconsciousness before he saw her ultimate fate. He thought he was dead. Then he awoke. He had been saved by the company (DocWagon with a different name, basically), and rebuilt with 'ware. The company saved his life, but his contract wasn't enough to cover his expenses, and he was pretty solid in debt. Luckily, they were looking for new recruits, and the 'ware they had used to rebuild him was perfect for their needs.
Flash forward and we have the character, now basically a cyberninja that's enslaved by his debt to the company that rescued him. He's a listless, almost lifeless character who really only wants to die, but at the same time is too much of a coward to do it himself. He realizes that the Mr. Johnson who hired him for the picnic had set him up for a snuff BTL show, not the peaceful picnic he had planned. He feels he's responsible for everything. And he's right. He feels almost no emotion other than anger, guilt, and pain. He's not a whiney emo kid about it, though. He just does his job, and waits patiently for it to kill him. He's now addicted to a collection of BTLs he had stashed away from his former life. Basically, every moment of downtime he gets, he indulges in his past, creating an ever increasing cycle of misery for himself and renewing his guilt. He keeps it in check by studying martial arts, and by following the teachings of The Hagakure, most notably the stuff about living your life as if you were already dead. He works well with his team, but only because he doesn't have enough of an opinion about any of them, or their work to make much of a difference. He just doesn't care. He doesn't make friends, but he's loyal, and reliable. It's that quality that they see in him to keep him around. Plus, they all work for the company, and the company says who stays and goes, anyway.
Udoshi, I'm maxed out on my BP, but I'm flexible and have been able to shift things around. As for the cost of any enhancements, I can afford them. I spent the maximum amount of BP into resources, and then took 20 points of in debt to boost it. I've used up most of that money, but I can still adjust things here and there to make way for things. In short, I can afford damn near everything.
Except for 0.7 essence, unfortunately. I only have 0.6. Suprathyroid is pretty awesome honestly. Though having my character eat a lot would be kind of odd for him.
Here's what the story of the character is, in a very basic nutshell.
X (haven't named him yet) once had a very average life. He had a halfway decent job working for some subsidiary of some megacorp. He was a nobody, but he made a decent living (middle lifestyle, most likely). He had a fairly decent social life, with decent, regular friends, and he had a girlfriend whom he lived with and was completely in love with. One day, he met a guy at a bar. Not a seedy club, or anything. Think of like a college bar, or a pub and grill kinda place. Guy seemed nice enough. Said he knew easy ways for him to earn cash on the side. All he had to do was record his everyday humdum life. Especially the parts with his girlfriend. Said a lot of people would pay a lot of good nuyen just to get a taste of the domestic life of bliss he had. So, he wound up recording his home life with his girlfriend for BTL chips for this guy. The guy would come to him with client requests sometimes. Have her wear this. Take her to this restaraunt. All on the client, of course. One day, the guy had a client request for X to take his girl out to a picnic under the Arch (This is in St. Louis, btw). Nothing special, just have a happy, relaxed picnic under the arch and enjoy each other's company, and record it all for him. They were ambushed in the park by a gang. The gangers tortured and dismembered X, and took turns on his girl, until they (presumably) killed her. X passed into unconsciousness before he saw her ultimate fate. He thought he was dead. Then he awoke. He had been saved by the company (DocWagon with a different name, basically), and rebuilt with 'ware. The company saved his life, but his contract wasn't enough to cover his expenses, and he was pretty solid in debt. Luckily, they were looking for new recruits, and the 'ware they had used to rebuild him was perfect for their needs.
Flash forward and we have the character, now basically a cyberninja that's enslaved by his debt to the company that rescued him. He's a listless, almost lifeless character who really only wants to die, but at the same time is too much of a coward to do it himself. He realizes that the Mr. Johnson who hired him for the picnic had set him up for a snuff BTL show, not the peaceful picnic he had planned. He feels he's responsible for everything. And he's right. He feels almost no emotion other than anger, guilt, and pain. He's not a whiney emo kid about it, though. He just does his job, and waits patiently for it to kill him. He's now addicted to a collection of BTLs he had stashed away from his former life. Basically, every moment of downtime he gets, he indulges in his past, creating an ever increasing cycle of misery for himself and renewing his guilt. He keeps it in check by studying martial arts, and by following the teachings of The Hagakure, most notably the stuff about living your life as if you were already dead. He works well with his team, but only because he doesn't have enough of an opinion about any of them, or their work to make much of a difference. He just doesn't care. He doesn't make friends, but he's loyal, and reliable. It's that quality that they see in him to keep him around. Plus, they all work for the company, and the company says who stays and goes, anyway.
I always thought that cyberware is a bad choice for a character focussed on stealth because 'ware scanners are everywhere and you dont want to trigger an alert just because of the chrome inside you.
So, cause cyberears and -eyes are already really easy to replace with external gear (goggles and earbuds) anyways, you might wanna consider changing the MBW to Synaptic Boosters. While this is a bit costlier indeed, it also frees up lots of essence which you do seem to care about quite a bit
So you have more room for improvements during the game!
This would make you cyber-free which is a huge step towards being unnoticed. Just my opinion, of course!
So, cause cyberears and -eyes are already really easy to replace with external gear (goggles and earbuds) anyways, you might wanna consider changing the MBW to Synaptic Boosters. While this is a bit costlier indeed, it also frees up lots of essence which you do seem to care about quite a bit
So you have more room for improvements during the game!This would make you cyber-free which is a huge step towards being unnoticed. Just my opinion, of course!
Synaptic Booster doesn't work for that kind of character, unless you want to settle with just the level 1. It's simply too expensive.
I would raise Body to 4 at least. For a combat-trained character it makes a lot of sense to be above the average there. And it is basically 1 damage box received less from every attack (1 Body + 2 Armor = 1 hit on average).
You know, that you can get alphaware at chargen? If you have enough money to afford it, you could get some of the ware in alpha to make it less essence-hungry.
All in all looks like a well-rounded character.
Oh, reading your backstory two things come to mind...
- Negative Qualities (Records on File from Runners Companion would make sense; maybe Big Regret, because of the BTL stuff)
- Cyberlimbs (a custom obvious lower right cyberarm is all you need for your combat stuff (really easy way to get Agility and Strength to 9, only when using the arm, of course), maybe instead of the Muscle Augmentation, and Muscle Toner 2 would suffice then; biggest downside is, that it won't help with Athletics and such), if the gangers cut you up that bad, it does make sense, and from the Corp's pov it is pretty much the easiest way to turn an average guy into a combat monster, attribute-wise at least, there is still combat training needed.
Bye
Thanee
I would raise Body to 4 at least. For a combat-trained character it makes a lot of sense to be above the average there. And it is basically 1 damage box received less from every attack (1 Body + 2 Armor = 1 hit on average).
You know, that you can get alphaware at chargen? If you have enough money to afford it, you could get some of the ware in alpha to make it less essence-hungry.
All in all looks like a well-rounded character.
Oh, reading your backstory two things come to mind...
- Negative Qualities (Records on File from Runners Companion would make sense; maybe Big Regret, because of the BTL stuff)
- Cyberlimbs (a custom obvious lower right cyberarm is all you need for your combat stuff (really easy way to get Agility and Strength to 9, only when using the arm, of course), maybe instead of the Muscle Augmentation, and Muscle Toner 2 would suffice then; biggest downside is, that it won't help with Athletics and such), if the gangers cut you up that bad, it does make sense, and from the Corp's pov it is pretty much the easiest way to turn an average guy into a combat monster, attribute-wise at least, there is still combat training needed.
Bye
Thanee
Of course it works:
Synaptic Booster 2
Muscle Toner 4
Muscle Augmentation 4
Synthacardium 3
Thats exactly 250K. With his depts, thats some 20K to spare for equip, which should suffice. If he drops Muscle-Stuff to 2 both he has another 30K to spare and doesnt have to invest anything in Restricted Gear
Where would you use Synaptic Boosters if not here Thanee?
Synaptic Booster 2
Muscle Toner 4
Muscle Augmentation 4
Synthacardium 3
Thats exactly 250K. With his depts, thats some 20K to spare for equip, which should suffice. If he drops Muscle-Stuff to 2 both he has another 30K to spare and doesnt have to invest anything in Restricted Gear
Where would you use Synaptic Boosters if not here Thanee?
QUOTE (Xenefungus @ Jun 9 2011, 10:12 AM)
Where would you use Synaptic Boosters if not here Thanee?
For Adepts, of course.
But yeah, if he would restrict himself a bit in terms of equipment (the commlinks and programs up there are ~30k already) it would be doable, but I don't think it is necessary, really.
Stealth doesn't necessarily mean you can sneak in anywhere. Sometimes you will just need a little tech help (for those scanners). The hacker needs something to do, too.
Depends a lot on how the GM runs the world, of course.
Bye
Thanee
How I would build someone like him, quick draft
Notes:
Karmagen, of course. Who would use BP?
800 Karma but Race Cost = 2*BP Cost, roughly equals standard 750 Karma but is more streamlined.
If you don't think so: I didnt purchase any negative qualities. Drop Karma to 750 and go nuts with Sensitive System and stuff.
Martial Arts do not count as Qualities.
Originally i broke up the Stealth Group but as thats not RAW, undid it. Feel free to boost Infiltration and specialize if your GM is not a dick. If he is: Do spend your first Karma here, pump Infiltration.
Feel free to swap Unarmed for Blades, is intended to use Shocking Gloves of course but also strong enough to be good at "real" melee. Opted for Unarmed to be able to do stun, not easy with Blades.If you do get Blades, get the two Styles that boost Blade Damage.
Get Human Looking if you think you must.
No Gear purchased as of now. In Debt luckily does not exist at my table. Feel free to differ
Generated with SR4CG 1p_fix
RACE: Ork
ATTRIBUTES Walk/Run 10 25
Body: 5 Charisma: 2 EDGE: 3
Agility: 5 [9] Intuition: 4 Phys Init 10[12]
Reaction: 6 [8] Logic: 3 Passes 1[3]
Strength: 5 [9] Willpower: 3 Essence: 3,1
ACTIVE SKILLS
Athletics (Group) 4
Stealth (Group) 4
Perception (Hearing) 4 (+2)
Hardware (Maglocks) 4 (+2)
Unarmed Combat (Parrying) 4 (+2)
Pistols (Semi-Automatics) 4 (+2)
Locksmith (Tumbling) 2 (+2)
Cyber/Bioware:
Synaptic Booster (1-3) 2
Muscle Toner (1-4) 4
Muscle Augmentation (1-4) 4
Synthacardium (1-3) 3
QUALITIES
Low-Light Vision
Restricted Gear 10
Restricted Gear 10
Erased (24 hours) 20
MARTIAL ARTS
CAP +1 Gymnastics Dodge
NIN +1 Gymnastics Dodge
NIN +1 Infiltration Tests
MANUEVERS
Finishing Move
Notes:
Karmagen, of course. Who would use BP?
800 Karma but Race Cost = 2*BP Cost, roughly equals standard 750 Karma but is more streamlined.
If you don't think so: I didnt purchase any negative qualities. Drop Karma to 750 and go nuts with Sensitive System and stuff.
Martial Arts do not count as Qualities.
Originally i broke up the Stealth Group but as thats not RAW, undid it. Feel free to boost Infiltration and specialize if your GM is not a dick. If he is: Do spend your first Karma here, pump Infiltration.
Feel free to swap Unarmed for Blades, is intended to use Shocking Gloves of course but also strong enough to be good at "real" melee. Opted for Unarmed to be able to do stun, not easy with Blades.If you do get Blades, get the two Styles that boost Blade Damage.
Get Human Looking if you think you must.
No Gear purchased as of now. In Debt luckily does not exist at my table. Feel free to differ
Generated with SR4CG 1p_fix
RACE: Ork
ATTRIBUTES Walk/Run 10 25
Body: 5 Charisma: 2 EDGE: 3
Agility: 5 [9] Intuition: 4 Phys Init 10[12]
Reaction: 6 [8] Logic: 3 Passes 1[3]
Strength: 5 [9] Willpower: 3 Essence: 3,1
ACTIVE SKILLS
Athletics (Group) 4
Stealth (Group) 4
Perception (Hearing) 4 (+2)
Hardware (Maglocks) 4 (+2)
Unarmed Combat (Parrying) 4 (+2)
Pistols (Semi-Automatics) 4 (+2)
Locksmith (Tumbling) 2 (+2)
Cyber/Bioware:
Synaptic Booster (1-3) 2
Muscle Toner (1-4) 4
Muscle Augmentation (1-4) 4
Synthacardium (1-3) 3
QUALITIES
Low-Light Vision
Restricted Gear 10
Restricted Gear 10
Erased (24 hours) 20
MARTIAL ARTS
CAP +1 Gymnastics Dodge
NIN +1 Gymnastics Dodge
NIN +1 Infiltration Tests
MANUEVERS
Finishing Move
Uhhh... you used Karma Gen with x3 Attributes there, right?
I don't think that's a fair comparison.
Besides, if the GM uses BP, then BP it is.
Bye
Thanee
I don't think that's a fair comparison.
Besides, if the GM uses BP, then BP it is.
Bye
Thanee
No, it's x5 of course. Everything else is nonsense 
QUOTE (Alucard @ Jun 9 2011, 08:10 AM)
Except for 0.7 essence, unfortunately. I only have 0.6. Suprathyroid is pretty awesome honestly. Though having my character eat a lot would be kind of odd for him.
Essence Cost: All cyberware and bioware implants have an Essence
cost, representing the reduction of the character’s Essence rating
that occurs when the ’ware is implanted. Essence costs for cyberware
and bioware are tracked separately; subtract the higher value
in full from the character’s Essence, but only half the lesser value
(Essence, p. 68).
QUOTE (Bushw4cker @ Jun 9 2011, 07:29 AM)
Essence Cost: All cyberware and bioware implants have an Essence
cost, representing the reduction of the character’s Essence rating
that occurs when the ’ware is implanted. Essence costs for cyberware
and bioware are tracked separately; subtract the higher value
in full from the character’s Essence, but only half the lesser value
(Essence, p. 68).
cost, representing the reduction of the character’s Essence rating
that occurs when the ’ware is implanted. Essence costs for cyberware
and bioware are tracked separately; subtract the higher value
in full from the character’s Essence, but only half the lesser value
(Essence, p. 68).
And your Point?
I think I see the point, actually... I tracked my essence wrong, and should have more to spare, since I reduced all of it at full.
Also, yeah, while I have access to all the stuff in all the books, I do have to use the BP system for creating my character.
And yeah, changing my metatype to ork would be beneficial. But it costs BPs which I'm not willing to give up. Also, if I had my way, we'd be playing an SR game with no magic or metatypes. I prefer the standard cyberpunk style game over the cyberpunk fantasy mix. So I rarely, if ever, play metatypes. As it stands, though, I don't have my way, and in fact, I'm playing the only human PC.
Also, yeah, while I have access to all the stuff in all the books, I do have to use the BP system for creating my character.
And yeah, changing my metatype to ork would be beneficial. But it costs BPs which I'm not willing to give up. Also, if I had my way, we'd be playing an SR game with no magic or metatypes. I prefer the standard cyberpunk style game over the cyberpunk fantasy mix. So I rarely, if ever, play metatypes. As it stands, though, I don't have my way, and in fact, I'm playing the only human PC.
QUOTE (Alucard @ Jun 9 2011, 11:09 AM)
I think I see the point, actually... I tracked my essence wrong, and should have more to spare, since I reduced all of it at full.
Also, yeah, while I have access to all the stuff in all the books, I do have to use the BP system for creating my character.
And yeah, changing my metatype to ork would be beneficial. But it costs BPs which I'm not willing to give up. Also, if I had my way, we'd be playing an SR game with no magic or metatypes. I prefer the standard cyberpunk style game over the cyberpunk fantasy mix. So I rarely, if ever, play metatypes. As it stands, though, I don't have my way, and in fact, I'm playing the only human PC.
Also, yeah, while I have access to all the stuff in all the books, I do have to use the BP system for creating my character.
And yeah, changing my metatype to ork would be beneficial. But it costs BPs which I'm not willing to give up. Also, if I had my way, we'd be playing an SR game with no magic or metatypes. I prefer the standard cyberpunk style game over the cyberpunk fantasy mix. So I rarely, if ever, play metatypes. As it stands, though, I don't have my way, and in fact, I'm playing the only human PC.
Yep, Got it....
The point is, being ork does NOT cost points, effectively. Its only 20BP, which would be 2 attribute points, but gives 5 of those for free. That's why ork is (almost) always better. As for the style, just get human looking, as said before.
QUOTE (Xenefungus @ Jun 9 2011, 01:47 PM)
No, it's x5 of course. Everything else is nonsense
Good, good.
Bye
Thanee
QUOTE (Alucard @ Jun 9 2011, 11:09 AM)
And yeah, changing my metatype to ork would be beneficial. But it costs BPs which I'm not willing to give up.
The Before: Human
Body 3
Agility 5 (8 )
Reaction 3 (7)
Strength 3 (6)
(2+4+2+2)x10=100BP on physical atts
Charisma 2
Intuition 4
Logic 4 (6)
Willpower 3
(1+3+3+2)*10=90bp on mental attributes.
cost: 100+90=190BP before augmentations.
The After: Human Looking Ork
Race Cost: 20bp
Human Looking 5
Body 4 (costs 0!)
Agility 5 (costs 40)
Reaction 3 (costs 20)
Strength 3 (costs 0!)
60BP on physical attributes
Charisma 2 (costs 10)
Intuition 4 (costs 30)
Logic 4 (costs 30)
Willpower 3 (costs 20)
90BP on mental attributes
60+90+20+5=175
Same stats. 15 more points. Even paying for your edge 2 back, you're 5 points ahead.
That being said, humans are pretty awesome - if you're going to do it, be an edge monkey.
Okay, you know what? Looking at that is a damned fine argument. You've convinced me. I can handle playing the metatype in that fashion. Heck, could even play it off like he doesn't even necessarily know he's an ork. Maybe, not sure if that'd work or not. But yeah, coming out ahead with 5 BPs could help me out some.
Also, a quick question, and I think I saw something on another thread. Heck, it's 3:30 am here so my mind is a little fuzzy at the moment, but what's the difference between having dodge skill and gymnastics, with the gymnastics dodge? Is there a reason to have both? I'm considering dropping dodge and boosting gymnastics and just using that for my dodge pools and to add flavor to the character. Your opinions/statistical advice?
Also, a quick question, and I think I saw something on another thread. Heck, it's 3:30 am here so my mind is a little fuzzy at the moment, but what's the difference between having dodge skill and gymnastics, with the gymnastics dodge? Is there a reason to have both? I'm considering dropping dodge and boosting gymnastics and just using that for my dodge pools and to add flavor to the character. Your opinions/statistical advice?
I'll try to answer this dodge / gym question, mostly to also test my own knowledge of it
To defend against ranged attacks, you normally just roll Reaction. If you take a Full Defense, you can roll Dodge OR Gymnastics in addition to Reaction. Using Gym to avoid damage is just called a "gymnastics dodge"
To defend in melee, you roll Reaction + [melee or dodge] skill. If you take a Full Defense, you can roll Reaction + [(2 x melee) or (melee + dodge) or (2 x dodge)] skill.
So there are lots of permutations. The thinking is, if you're already taking a melee skill, you can use this skill in melee to defend. So the question is whether to get Dodge or Gym for ranged defense. Since you can use Gym for other things besides avoiding attacks (plus get bonuses from things like Synthacardium), it's the "better" option. I'd say the only "downside" is whether you want to specialize in Gym for better defense for another +2, and whether your GM allows it.
Someone step in if I've got my thinking wrong here...
To defend against ranged attacks, you normally just roll Reaction. If you take a Full Defense, you can roll Dodge OR Gymnastics in addition to Reaction. Using Gym to avoid damage is just called a "gymnastics dodge"
To defend in melee, you roll Reaction + [melee or dodge] skill. If you take a Full Defense, you can roll Reaction + [(2 x melee) or (melee + dodge) or (2 x dodge)] skill.
So there are lots of permutations. The thinking is, if you're already taking a melee skill, you can use this skill in melee to defend. So the question is whether to get Dodge or Gym for ranged defense. Since you can use Gym for other things besides avoiding attacks (plus get bonuses from things like Synthacardium), it's the "better" option. I'd say the only "downside" is whether you want to specialize in Gym for better defense for another +2, and whether your GM allows it.
Someone step in if I've got my thinking wrong here...
A Minor Point... you cannot use Gymnastics Dodge for Vehicle Combat. For that You need Dodge.
good point - riggers / wheel-men might want to take Dodge instead...
once again, I'd say just pick whatever fits the concept best - it seems your infiltrator / ninja-ish concept would work well with Gym instead of Dodge, so go with it.
once again, I'd say just pick whatever fits the concept best - it seems your infiltrator / ninja-ish concept would work well with Gym instead of Dodge, so go with it.
Well, I see that no mention was made about melee dodging with gymnastics dodge. Is it able to be used in melee? Or just ranged? Basically, since in melee I can roll my Reaction + Melee + Dodge, does that mean I can instead roll Reaction + Melee + Gymnastics? Or Reaction + 2x Gymnastics?
I don't have a 100% definitive answer...
hmmm, just now re-reading the Gym. Dodge section. Gym Dodge is a Full Defense, so - "may add Gymnastics skill to their dice pool against either ranged or melee attacks." This sounds like a player can add Gym to the base dice pool, so for melee, the base pool is Rea + [melee or dodge], so a Gym Dodge for melee would be Rea + [melee or dodge] + Gym.
So I think options for melee defense are Rea + [melee or dodge]
Full Defense melee would be Rea + [2xmelee or 2xdodge or melee+dodge or melee+gym]
I'm not sure why you're wanting to use Dodge OR Gym in melee? You have a really high weapon skill, and your unarmed seems to be specialized in parrying. I don't see a lot of situations in melee where you wouldn't use those skills...it's possible you might be caught without your weapon, and unarmed parrying somebody else's weapon might suck, but I don't think that would come up that often...
hmmm, just now re-reading the Gym. Dodge section. Gym Dodge is a Full Defense, so - "may add Gymnastics skill to their dice pool against either ranged or melee attacks." This sounds like a player can add Gym to the base dice pool, so for melee, the base pool is Rea + [melee or dodge], so a Gym Dodge for melee would be Rea + [melee or dodge] + Gym.
So I think options for melee defense are Rea + [melee or dodge]
Full Defense melee would be Rea + [2xmelee or 2xdodge or melee+dodge or melee+gym]
I'm not sure why you're wanting to use Dodge OR Gym in melee? You have a really high weapon skill, and your unarmed seems to be specialized in parrying. I don't see a lot of situations in melee where you wouldn't use those skills...it's possible you might be caught without your weapon, and unarmed parrying somebody else's weapon might suck, but I don't think that would come up that often...
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