Cyberpunk RED Netrunning cheat sheet
NET Architecture actions, programs, and Black ICE. At-the-table reference for Cyberpunk RED.
Cyberpunk RED netrunning: the Netrunner jacks into a local NET Architecture and runs programs against ICE to reach objectives deeper in the system.
NET Architecture
- Each network is a vertical stack of floors, each holding ICE, files, or controls.
- The Netrunner moves one floor per NET Action (up or down).
- Floor contents are revealed as you enter (unless you have a floor map).
NET Actions
- Interface check
- INT + Interface + 1d10 vs DV
- Jack In/Out
- Free action on your turn
- Move (1 floor)
- 1 NET Action
- Use program
- 1 NET Action (attack, defend, or utility)
- Scanner
- See the next floor without entering
- Backdoor
- Bypass a piece of ICE (DV set by ICE)
- Control
- Activate a device on the current floor
- Eye-Dee
- Identify an unknown program or file
- Slide
- Move past an ICE without engaging (opposed check)
- Zap
- Attack ICE with an offensive program
Programs
- Offensive: Sword, Banhammer (deal NET damage to ICE).
- Defensive: Armor, Shield, Flak (reduce incoming NET damage).
- Utility: Eraser (delete files), See Ya (stealth), Speedy Gonzalvez (extra floor move).
- Program slots come from the cyberdeck, not the Interface stat: a standard deck holds 7 program slots.
Black ICE
- Black ICE deals real-world damage to the Netrunner's body (not just NET HP).
- Types: Wisp (1d6 brain damage, -1 NET Action next turn), Hellhound (2d6 brain damage, plus sets you on fire), Killer (4d6 damage to programs/REZ; anti-program, not anti-Netrunner), Skunk (-2 to Slide).
- If the Netrunner is flatlined in the NET, they take brain damage (critical injury to head).
Timing with meatspace
- NET turns happen simultaneously with meatspace turns.
- Netrunners get 2 to 5 NET Actions per turn depending on Interface rank, not a flat one.
- The Netrunner's body is vulnerable while jacked in; the party should protect it during a run.
Common mistakes
- Netrunners are physically vulnerable while jacked in: no Evasion in meatspace.
- Black ICE damage is real: it can kill the Netrunner's body.
- Program slots are limited; pick a loadout before the run, not during.
- NET Architectures are local (building-scale), not the old global NET.