Rules reference
Character creation in Cyberpunk RED
Creation steps and common decision points. Cyberpunk RED is a tabletop RPG set in Night City in the year 2045, a dystopian future where corporations rule, cyberware is common, and life is cheap. Players take on the roles of Edgerunners: cyberpunks, netrunners, solos, and other denizens of the mean streets trying to survive and thrive in a world of chrome and corruption.
Key points
Use this as a checklist, then build your character in RPG Stack.
Key facts
- 10 Roles: Netrunner, Solo, Tech, Medtech, Media, Exec, Lawman, Fixer, Nomad, Rockerboy
- d10 system: Roll Stat + Skill + 1d10 against Difficulty Value
- Improvement Points (IP): Used instead of XP for advancement
- Cyberware system: Enhance abilities but cost Humanity
- Role Abilities: Unique powers for each Role
- Combat system: Fast-paced action with armor, weapons, and cyberware
Creation order (from system.json)
- Choose Role and Background
- Distribute Stats: set each of INT, REF, DEX, TECH, COOL, WILL, LUCK, MOVE, BODY, and EMP between 2 and 8 to match your concept.
- Distribute Skills: spread your skill ranks (0-10) across all skills, focusing on a handful of core specialties first.
- Choose Role Ability
- Select Equipment and Cyberware
- Determine Humanity and HP
Examples
Example: Concept first
Start with a simple concept (role + vibe), then choose attributes/skills that support it. You can fill details later.
Example: One signature move
Make sure your sheet supports a signature action you want to do often (investigate, intimidate, hack, heal, etc.).
Common mistakes
- Mistake: Skipping concept and getting lost in options. Fix: Pick a role, pick 2 strengths, pick 1 weakness, then fill details.
- Mistake: Not aligning your sheet with the campaign. Fix: Ask what kind of scenes you’ll play (combat, investigation, politics) and build for that.
Build guides for Cyberpunk RED