High Level Overview

1. Playing Shadowrun

• Shadowrun is a story-first RPG: players describe what their characters attempt, and the GM decides outcomes.

• Dice pools of d6 determine success: add attribute + skill + modifiers to get the pool size.

• Success: Each die that rolls 5 or 6 counts as a hit.

• Target Numbers/Thresholds: GM sets how many hits are needed for success.

• Glitches: If more than half your dice are 1s, the action goes badly—even if it technically succeeds.

• Edge & Wild Die: Special dice rules that can affect success or rerolls.

2. Making Tests & Dice Pools

• Success Tests: Roll against a target number.

• Opposed Tests: Roll against another character or NPC.

• Extended Tests: Tasks that take time or repeated attempts.

• Team Tests: When multiple characters contribute.

• Critical Success/Failure: Rules for exceptionally good or bad outcomes.

3. Character Traits & Stats

• Metatype: Character species (Human, Elf, Ork, Troll, Dwarf).

• Attributes: Core stats (Strength, Agility, Logic, Intuition, Charisma, etc.) used in dice pools.

• Skills: Areas of training or expertise.

• Special Attributes: Edge, Magic, and Resonance.

• Condition Monitors: Track damage, stress, or wounds.

• Initiative: Determines action order in combat and other time-sensitive situations.

• Attack/Defense Ratings: Used in combat resolution.

• Qualities: Advantages or disadvantages that modify character abilities.

• Gear: Weapons, cyberware, armor, tools, vehicles, etc.

• Contacts: Allies or information sources.

• Lifestyle: Reflects living conditions, income, and social resources.

4. Putting It All Together – How to Play a Turn or Scene

1. Declare Intent: Player describes what their character is trying to do (e.g., “I pick the lock quietly”).

2. GM Sets Parameters: GM decides test type, modifiers, and target number.

3. Roll Dice: Roll the dice pool (attribute + skill + modifiers).

4. Count Hits / Apply Outcome: Compare hits to target number or opposed rolls; narrate results.

5. GM Resolves Consequences: Damage, narrative changes, or follow-up events.