Cheat sheet
GM checklist (Shadowrun 6th Edition)
Before-session and during-session reminders.
Quick blocks
Shadowrun GMing is the run structure: the meet with Mr. Johnson, the legwork, the run itself, and the getaway with the payout. Every job should have a twist worth discovering.
Session checklist
- Give every run a twist or double-cross the legwork can uncover.
- Keep all three pillars busy: muscle, magic, and Matrix each need a scene.
- Track heat as a clock: corp response escalates the longer the run drags.
- Make Edge-worthy moments explicit so players know when to earn and spend it.
Common pitfalls
- Letting the decker's Matrix scene stall the table
- Runs with no legwork payoff
- Ignoring what SINless life costs the characters