Netrunner

Wizards of the Coast · Board game · 1996
2 · best 2 45 min Weight 2.9/5
7.5 rating Ludopedia
7.5 rating BGG
Buy
7.5 rating Ludopedia
7.5 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you enjoy collectible card games with a cyberpunk vibe and strategic depth that makes you think outside the box, Netrunner is for you! The tension of hacking systems and defending your plans is awesome.

Highlights
  • Intense asymmetrical duel
  • Immersive cyberpunk theme
  • Deep and unique strategy
  • Innovative Runner movement
Keep in mind
  • Requires English language
  • Collectible components
  • Steep learning curve
FOR GENRE FANS
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About the game
Netrunner, released in 1996 and created by the master Richard Garfield (yes, the same one from Magic: The Gathering!), is a collectible card game that throws you straight into a cyberpunk universe. Here, things get tense: two players take on opposite roles. One is the Corporation, trying to complete its secret plans (Agendas) without being discovered. The other is the Runner, a daring hacker who needs to infiltrate the Corp's systems to steal these Agendas. Each turn is a race against time and money (bits). You have a limited number of actions and resources, and you need to be smart to use every action point and every bit wisely. A brilliant twist is that the Runner physically moves across a board of face-down Corporation cards, in a digital 'capture the flag' vibe. The catch is that the best strategy isn't always just playing the most powerful cards; sometimes, the secret lies in understanding and manipulating the game's own rules! It's an intense duel where each player takes on both roles, one at a time, pitting their Runner against the opponent's Runner. Victory in each match is worth points, and the overall champion is the one who accumulates the most points at the end of two sub-matches. Prepare for a game that demands sharp strategy and a good understanding of the meta, even though the classic format is for two players; there are alternative modes for more people to venture into this world of data and intrigue.
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 BEST
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Game details

Mechanics

Families

Collectible: Collectible Card Games Game: Netrunner Players: Two-Player Only Games Theme: Cyberpunk Theme: Hackers
Publisher Wizards of the Coast
Designer Richard Garfield
Artist Anson Maddocks, Armand Cabrera, Ash Arnett, Brian Booker, Brian Wagner, Chris Vande Voort, Christina Wald, Craig Hooper, Dan Frazier, Daniel Gelon, Doug Chaffee, Doug Keith, Doug Shuler, Greg Staples, Heather Hudson, James Higgens, John Park, John Ramirez, Kaja Foglio, Kevin Stein, L. A. Williams, Larry Friedman, Larry Snelly, Margaret Organ-Kean, Maria Cabardo, Mark Poole, Mark Tedin, Matt Milberger, Matt Wilson (I), Mike Kimble, Mike Raabe, Pete Venters, Ramon Mascarenas, Randy Gallegos, Ray Winninger, Richard Thomas (I), Robert Dixon, Terese Nielsen, Todd Wade, Tony Luke, Zak Plucinski
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players can participate in a Netrunner match?
The classic Netrunner format is for 2 players. There are alternative and unofficial modes that allow for more players, but the game was primarily designed for a one-on-one duel.
What is the average playtime for a game?
A Netrunner match generally lasts around 45 minutes, but this can vary depending on player experience and the complexity of the strategies employed.
Is the game difficult to learn?
Netrunner has a moderate to high learning curve. The basic rules are accessible, but mastering the strategic nuances and card interactions requires dedication and a few plays.
Do I need to buy card packs to play?
Yes, Netrunner is a collectible card game. To build custom decks and explore all strategic possibilities, you'll need to acquire additional cards in packs or through trading.
Is the game available in Portuguese?
The original version of Netrunner published in 1996 did not have an official Portuguese release, meaning most available components and rules require English reading. There are communities that have created card translations, but the official experience is in English.
Who would you recommend Netrunner to?
We recommend Netrunner to players who enjoy card games with deep strategy, cyberpunk themes, and asymmetrical duels. If you appreciate intellectual challenges and don't mind the need for customization and English language, it could be a great choice.