Ludography
Shadowrun cover

1989 · Biopunk · Cyberpunk

Shadowrun

tabletop science fantasy role-playing game

Released
1989
Platforms
—
Genres
BiopunkCyberpunkDystopian fictionFantasyScience fantasyTabletop role-playing
Developers
—
Publishers
Catalyst Game LabsFASA CorporationFanPro LLC
Country
United States

About

Shadowrun is a science fantasy tabletop role-playing game set in an alternate future in which cybernetics, magic and fantasy creatures co-exist. It combines genres of cyberpunk, urban fantasy, and crime, with occasional elements of conspiracy, horror, and detective fiction. From its inception in 1989, it has spawned a franchise that includes a series of novels, a collectible card game, two miniature-based tabletop wargames, and multiple video games.

The title is taken from the game's main premise – a near-future world damaged by a massive magical event, where industrial espionage and corporate warfare run rampant. A shadowrun – a successful data theft or physical break-in at a rival corporation or organization – is one of the main tools employed by both corporate rivals and underworld figures. Deckers (futuristic hackers) can tap into an immersive, three-dimensional cyberspace on such missions as they seek access, physical or remote, to the power structures of rival groups. They are opposed by rival deckers and lethal, potentially brain-destroying artificial intelligences called "Intrusion Countermeasures" (IC), while they are protected by street fighters and/or mercenaries, often with cyborg implants (called cyberware), magicians, and other exotic figures. Magic has also returned to the world after a series of plagues; dragons who can take human form have returned as well, and are commonly found in high positions of corporate power.

Editions and related releases

Derivative works
Shadowrun
Basis for
ShadowrunShadowrun Returns

Collections1 collection

Years

Description adapted from its source, CC BY-SA 4.0.