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Android: Netrunner

Android: Netrunner

Fantasy Flight Games · 2012
245 min14+ yrs3.4/5 complexity7.9 BGG#85 BGG47,4 KCouples
short answer

How do you play Android: Netrunner?

The primary objective for both players is to be the first to accumulate 7 agenda points. The Runner achieves this by successfully 'running' on Corp servers and stealing agenda cards. The Corp, on the other hand, scores agenda points by successfully advancing and completing agenda cards from their hand or remote servers.

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Android: Netrunner box art
official art · Fantasy Flight Games
the rules in 60 seconds▶ auto · 1/6
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01

Setup

Players choose to be either the Runner (hacker) or the Corp (mega-corporation), each with unique decks and playstyles.

The rules, step by step

Setup
Android: Netrunner is a two-player asymmetrical card game where one player takes on the role of the Runner, a hacker attempting to steal agendas from the Corp, a powerful mega-corporation. Each player constructs a deck specific to their role, featuring unique cards, abilities, and strategies. The game can be played with original licensed products from Fantasy Flight Games (FFG) or with fan-made content from Project NISEI, which offers print-and-play PDFs or professionally printed cards through partners like DriveThruCards and MakePlayingCards. NISEI also provides a 'System Gateway Starter Pack' designed for new players.
Objective
The primary objective for both players is to be the first to accumulate 7 agenda points. The Runner achieves this by successfully 'running' on Corp servers and stealing agenda cards. The Corp, on the other hand, scores agenda points by successfully advancing and completing agenda cards from their hand or remote servers.
On your turn
A game turn consists of several phases where players take actions. The Runner's turn typically involves drawing cards, gaining credits, installing programs or hardware, and making 'runs' on Corp servers to access cards. The Corp's turn involves drawing cards, gaining credits, installing ice (defensive programs) on servers, and advancing agendas. Actions are limited by 'clicks' each turn, and players must manage their resources (credits) effectively.
Scoring
Agendas are the central scoring mechanism. The Corp scores agendas by spending a certain number of clicks and credits to 'advance' them over multiple turns. Once an agenda has enough advancement tokens, it is scored, and the Corp gains its points. The Runner scores agendas by accessing them during a successful run on a Corp server. If the Runner accesses an agenda, they immediately steal it and gain its points.
Game end
The game concludes when one player reaches 7 agenda points. If the Runner reaches 7 points, they win. If the Corp reaches 7 points, they win. Additionally, the game can end if the Runner is 'flatlined' (takes damage exceeding their hand size) or if the Corp runs out of cards in their main deck (R&D) and cannot draw a card when required.
Tips
For new players, starting with the NISEI 'System Gateway' format is recommended as it offers a streamlined card pool and simplified rules. Utilizing online platforms like Jinteki.net provides a free and accessible way to learn and play the game, offering tutorials, AI opponents, and a global community. Familiarize yourself with the game's comprehensive rulebook and explore various deck-building strategies to find a playstyle that suits you. Engaging with the community through forums or Discord can also provide valuable insights and opportunities to play with experienced players.
🔬 game anatomy
Complexity3.4 / 5
BGG rating7.9 / 10
Vibe
Couples
Language dependence
Extensive text — heavy translation needed
Play time
45 min
Players
2
Recommended age
14+ yrs
BGG rank
#85

from Trișache · verified

Frequently asked questions

Q1What is the goal of the game?
The primary objective for both players is to be the first to accumulate 7 agenda points. The Runner achieves this by successfully 'running' on Corp servers and stealing agenda cards. The Corp, on the other hand, scores agenda points by successfully advancing and completing agenda cards from their hand or remote servers.
Q2How do you set up the game?
Android: Netrunner is a two-player asymmetrical card game where one player takes on the role of the Runner, a hacker attempting to steal agendas from the Corp, a powerful mega-corporation. Each player constructs a deck specific to their role, featuring unique cards, abilities, and strategies. The game can be played with original licensed products from Fantasy Flight Games (FFG) or with fan-made content from Project NISEI, which offers print-and-play PDFs or professionally printed cards through partners like DriveThruCards and MakePlayingCards. NISEI also provides a 'System Gateway Starter Pack' designed for new players.
Q3How does a turn work?
A game turn consists of several phases where players take actions. The Runner's turn typically involves drawing cards, gaining credits, installing programs or hardware, and making 'runs' on Corp servers to access cards. The Corp's turn involves drawing cards, gaining credits, installing ice (defensive programs) on servers, and advancing agendas. Actions are limited by 'clicks' each turn, and players must manage their resources (credits) effectively.
Q4How is scoring calculated?
Agendas are the central scoring mechanism. The Corp scores agendas by spending a certain number of clicks and credits to 'advance' them over multiple turns. Once an agenda has enough advancement tokens, it is scored, and the Corp gains its points. The Runner scores agendas by accessing them during a successful run on a Corp server. If the Runner accesses an agenda, they immediately steal it and gain its points.
Q5When and how does the game end?
The game concludes when one player reaches 7 agenda points. If the Runner reaches 7 points, they win. If the Corp reaches 7 points, they win. Additionally, the game can end if the Runner is 'flatlined' (takes damage exceeding their hand size) or if the Corp runs out of cards in their main deck (R&D) and cannot draw a card when required.
Q6What tips are there for beginners?
For new players, starting with the NISEI 'System Gateway' format is recommended as it offers a streamlined card pool and simplified rules. Utilizing online platforms like Jinteki.net provides a free and accessible way to learn and play the game, offering tutorials, AI opponents, and a global community. Familiarize yourself with the game's comprehensive rulebook and explore various deck-building strategies to find a playstyle that suits you. Engaging with the community through forums or Discord can also provide valuable insights and opportunities to play with experienced players.
Q7How much does Android: Netrunner cost?
No store is currently tracking Android: Netrunner. Check the Prices tab — you can set a price alert to be notified when it appears.
Q8Where can I buy Android: Netrunner cheapest?
Check the Prices tab — howtoplay.ro aggregates offers from 7+ Romanian board-game stores and tracks price history.
Q9How do you play Android: Netrunner?
Android: Netrunner is a bluffing game, for 2 players, taking ~45 minutes, featuring action points. Check the Rules tab for setup, gameplay, and scoring, or ask Trișache anything about Android: Netrunner — our AI assistant built by howtoplay.ro and trained specifically on board game rulebooks.
Q10How many players does Android: Netrunner support?
Android: Netrunner is played by 2 players.
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