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This is all great stuff. I still am not sure how the Matrix works, though.
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Aug 3, 2009 17:15
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What are you interested in learning about? A lot of the mechanics to the Matrix system are extremely similar to their magic equivalent, but there are certainly unique scenarios. We could go over specific stuff if you like.
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Aug 3, 2009 17:17
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Well, specifically I'm having trouble understanding how Matrix combat works. Is it merely Attack program vs, er, Firewall(?), back and forth until one part is fried or dumps out? Then, whether one uses hot sim or specific black programs determines if it's real damage or integrity damage, yes? Also, I'm having trouble as a gamemaster knowing when to use specific programs. It would seem that most of the things one would like to do as a hacker (unlock a safe, crack a drone, pick some specific data out of a dbase etc.) is covered by the Exploit program, is this correctly guessed? Also, if anyone wants to do some PbP Shadowrun 4E here on SA, let me know. It'd be awesome as a learning experience.
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Aug 3, 2009 17:35
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Tias posted:Well, specifically I'm having trouble understanding how Matrix combat works. Is it merely Attack program vs, er, Firewall(?), back and forth until one part is fried or dumps out? If you have an original book (like me) there's an error in print which makes this confusing because it lists a few things incorrectly (fixed in errata). If you just have an icon and an IC slugging it out it's just a back and forth, though a decent hacker hopefully will either take the countermeasure out quickly or know when to cut and run. Tias posted:Then, whether one uses hot sim or specific black programs determines if it's real damage or integrity damage, yes? Tias posted:Also, I'm having trouble as a gamemaster knowing when to use specific programs. It would seem that most of the things one would like to do as a hacker (unlock a safe, crack a drone, pick some specific data out of a dbase etc.) is covered by the Exploit program, is this correctly guessed? I did a little searching and there's a decent printout with the quick-rules for standard Matrix actions made by someone on the Dumpshock forums. I downloaded a copy and hosted it here. Tias posted:Also, if anyone wants to do some PbP Shadowrun 4E here on SA, let me know. It'd be awesome as a learning experience. PierreTheMime fucked around with this message at 18:18 on Aug 3, 2009 |
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Aug 3, 2009 17:55
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Tias posted:Also, if anyone wants to do some PbP Shadowrun 4E here on SA, let me know. It'd be awesome as a learning experience. I could definitely go for this one.
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Aug 3, 2009 18:40
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Both playing or running the game is fine with me, but potential players must be understanding of the fact that I will make a gently caress-ton of errors if I run it. Also, thanks for the file Pierre, you're the man <3
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Aug 3, 2009 18:40
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I would be interested in a shadowrun game.
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Aug 3, 2009 18:44
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Tias, I'm a newb, too, so I'll likely make mistakes myself.
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Aug 3, 2009 18:47
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Tias posted:Well, specifically I'm having trouble understanding how Matrix combat works. And here's all the other cheat sheets from the same guy: http://pavao.org/shadowrun/cheatsheets/ And yes, Tias, Exploit will be used quite often, but not always. Here's the procedure for an example hack: 1. EWar + Scan to locate the network you're looking to hack through wireless. 2. Hack + Exploit to break in. 3. Stealth (passive) to avoid being detected. 4. Computer + Analyze (aka Matrix Perception) to check out your surroundings. 5. Data Search + Browse to find the paydata in their systems. 6. EWar + Decrypt to find out what the file says. 7. Hack + Edit to change what the file says. 8. EWar + Encrypt to put it back the way it was so no one will suspect a thing. 9. Logout. Or here's another: 1. EWar + Scan to detect the link between the security node and some drones. 2. EWar + Sniffer to tap into the drone's video feed back to the security node. 3. Hack + Spoof (or maybe even Spoof + Edit) to alter the video feed so it shows an empty hallway instead of a team of shadowrunners. 4. Hack + Spoof again to convince the drone that you're sending it legitimate commands and tell it to go back to maintenance for a recharge. 5. Hack + Spoof again to send a false "low-battery" warning back to the security node, and make it look like it came from the drone. In all of that, Exploit was only used once, though possibly for multiple rolls because breaking into a node is an Extended Test.
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Aug 3, 2009 19:04
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McGravin posted:Incredibly useful cheatsheets Also, regarding a PbP Shadowrun game--I'd be down for either running or playing, if people want to figure out which they want to do. Tias, if you're up for GMing I'd be happy to bring along a few runner ideas I've had or perhaps a couple useful characters I've had in a past based upon the other team composition. Edit: If anyone wants to discuss particular details or SR questions, feel free to IM me over AIM using my username. PierreTheMime fucked around with this message at 19:22 on Aug 3, 2009 |
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Aug 3, 2009 19:14
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I'm awed at the amount of interest, but it feels incredibly intimidating to GM with a system with so many rules - I've never been a rules-oriented person, preferring the storytelling system, but I do have a couple scenarios written up I would be willing to run if people can bear with a lot of fuckups. If people are not (and that is totally understandable), I should like PierretheMime to GM, as he really seems like he has his poo poo together. McGravin>> That was awesome, thanks!
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Aug 3, 2009 19:28
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I go out for the weekend and this thread explodes with awesomeness. If you could take someone who has never played by post before I'd give it a whirl. I wish to refine a character I made for a home game and try him elsewhere.
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Aug 3, 2009 21:57
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Tias posted:I'm awed at the amount of interest, but it feels incredibly intimidating to GM with a system with so many rules - I've never been a rules-oriented person, preferring the storytelling system, but I do have a couple scenarios written up I would be willing to run if people can bear with a lot of fuckups.
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Aug 3, 2009 22:30
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Aye. And I am still up for gamemastering, if you are okay with it. I will warn all-comers that it will be a pretty strange scenario and setting, however.
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Aug 3, 2009 22:51
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Tias posted:Aye. And I am still up for gamemastering, if you are okay with it. I will warn all-comers that it will be a pretty strange scenario and setting, however. I will totally be up for playing in this (and helping if you have any questions). Which would you prefer: a wheelman/gunner, face/skillsman or a utility magician? I'll probably make all three anyhow, but I'm just curious.
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Aug 3, 2009 23:04
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I'll gladly play, but I've played so much Shadowrun that if the game fills up, I don't mind letting someone else take my spot.
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Aug 3, 2009 23:06
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Pierre>> I'm going low-drama/low-tech, so the group will mainly need "generic" street rogues who can handle guns, electronics, cars and facework. Riggers, technomancers, mages and the like are optional and definitely not necessary, but will provide an extra edge if you have them. McG>> Well, usually people drop off, so it's cool that you're up for it. The game will start in two weeks, and I have a mind to set it in either Germany or Denmark. It is definitely allowable to play a foreign 'Runner if you are all from the states or a far part of Europe or Asia.
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Aug 3, 2009 23:51
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I know poo poo all about anywhere but Seattle. So I guess I'll be a foreigner. Bonus points because I can easily work it in to my idea.
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Aug 3, 2009 23:59
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The General posted:I know poo poo all about anywhere but Seattle. So I guess I'll be a foreigner. Bonus points because I can easily work it in to my idea. Cool that  Just keep in mind that your character will either be a persecuted illegal (if SINless), or registered with either Mærsk Incorporated Assets or Saeder-Krupp (if a SINer, and this can both open some doors or close a lot of others).
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Aug 4, 2009 01:15
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I think I'm gonna need to get with someone to help me make a character. Part of me wants to do a wheelman/smuggler concept for the hell of it.
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Aug 4, 2009 04:47
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I'd like to try a troll.
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Aug 4, 2009 04:50
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lighttigersoul posted:I think I'm gonna need to get with someone to help me make a character. Part of me wants to do a wheelman/smuggler concept for the hell of it. I help you! I'll build you a sexy car, and suggest skills and other odds and ends. I love building custom cars, guns and lifestyles. So much fun in this game.
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Aug 4, 2009 06:51
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Yeah, sure, we'll help you out. The 4th ed Anniversary edition has a nicely comprehensive character creation section if you have it or can borrow it. All character metatypes and 'classes' are in principle permitted, but I'd like it to be a n00bfest, and am thinking of capping you at 360 BP. Tias fucked around with this message at 10:01 on Aug 4, 2009 |
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Aug 4, 2009 09:58
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I have been GM’ing Shadowrun for years. First with early 3rd edition and now I have done a bit of play testing for Catalysts recent books. I can’t say too much due to my NDA but will help out if you have any questions as best as I can. Shadowrun has always been a fun and vibrant world. Part of this is stemmed from how it is written. When a background book is made freelances submit their ideas and briefs for chapters. This is how you get interest books like the threats and threats 2 books. Each chapter is written by a different person and the ideas flow remarkably well. Here is a write up on the first run I always do for new players. It covers the setting and makes it familiar for new players without bombarding them with lore. It can be scaled well and focuses on player interactions with certain key NPC’s. Its important that the GM knows each NPC’s motivation, this helps to judge how the NPC will react when the players do something the GM does not expect. They will always do unexpected things, that is half the fun in GM’ing such an open RP game. If you like these I will post more as I run my weekly game. I generally leave stats out as I find that you need to tailor the risk level to the party so the players have fun. Murder on the dance floor?: The Job: Players are contacted by one of the players contacts: Can be a trusted Fixer or other likely contact. Tony de Star a local club owner wants to hire them as extra security. The Meet: Players meet at Tony’s club “The Eclipse” Use an example of a dance club. It has a central bar area in the middle of the room with a large speaker and light system above it. Have them meeting when they are cleaning up or preparing for a night a head. Use this to set the stage, introduce H. Case the security guy, Samantha Surma the bar chick and Tony the troll who owns the place and is the Johnson for the run. Make sure you remember to draw a map. Focus on what seems right. Tony needs a secure office and make sure there is a back emergency door and a male and female bathroom. Keep the meet simple, Tony is having a VIP into the club this weekend and he wants nothing bad to happen. As a GM decide what is a fair reward for the players and let them roll dice for the negotiation. Give the players a few days to prepare for the weekend so they can plan on how “security” should be. Interactions: H Case currently runs physical security, he doesn’t like the players as its his job for security. Let the players decide if they like him or not. Samantha Surma has info on what goes on. Let slip that the DJ “R-Dog” is what people makes the club great. Tony is a likeable character, use him to show the players that Trolls don’t have to be the heavy weapon guys. Legwork: -The Eclipse has a standard matrix security package. Off the shelf at rating 2 for most things, this is not good and the decker can provide matrix security. -Research on the VIP reveals that its an Elven chick from Los Angles. She is a huge star on the P2.0 (shadowrun facebook/youtube) <Corporate enclaves has more info but is not required> Will be doing a tour of 2 clubs in Seattle (or whatever city you are in) this weekend. -R-Dog is the key to the club success but neither he nor Tony know it. The key is describing how R-Dog does his DJ’ing. Imagine if everyone’s comlink is also their MP3 player (super Iphone) and when they enter the club R-Dog can sample everyone’s playlist. He then mixes it into his dance beats. People like the club because it always plays music they like, its because it literally is a mix of everyone’s favourite music without them realizing it. Before the visit: Let the players go wild on the security they should pick up on the back door and the other risks in the club. Most of what happens is the interactions between the runners and the opposition. This is not something which can be planned so just go with the flow. Make sure all the players have a part in the security. Behind the scenes and what is actually going on: In Los Angles the Elven chick Janet Turtleleaf whose life is managed by her father and executive from Horizon an entertainment/media company. His career is promoting his daughter for profit on the P2.0 network (shadowrun facebook/youtube). She is currently going to tour Seattle to check out the clubs and has had the hype building for weeks. He has hired some shadowrunners in Seattle to make the visit more interesting for ratings. A kidnapping and a rescue from horizon security is what is planned for the ratings hike. The Runners hired are an interesting bunch and should be found out through the course of the adventure, they are: Maxamillian: A cybered up Human. Give him enough cyberware where a mage asensing him should pick him out in a crowd. A basic cyberware scanner will also pick him up. He should be caught by the players at the door before he enters the club. Have him kick up a fuss and see what the players do to stop a scene. Has a thing for Tammy and try to get the job done as best he can to show off. Zorg!: Slightly mad Ork magician. Have him act odd if they find Maxamillian so the players pick up that something is wrong. He is a big threat if he can get into the club. He will go into the bathroom and call forth a spirit to wreak havoc. Tammy: Is the real threat in this run. Female Elf who does not stand out at all. Has good infiltration and will be the hardest to spot. I recommend that the players solve the Tammy problem by questioning Zorg or Maxamillian. She will try to use a contact drug to knock out Janet and sneak her out the back exit. Conclusion: with any luck the players will find all the opposition and feel pretty good that their security work caught the bad guys. Read up on the section regarding security in the main book and how the social skills work. There shouldn’t be any shooting at all and will hopefully give the players the idea that combat does not always have to be a part of “winning the shadowrun” If you want to add a bit more complications throw in a drug dealer dealing in BTL’s (Better than life chips) or have Janet Turtleleaf hit on a player to see if they can embarrass themselves. Play Janet like a Paris Hilton and give her a cybernetic dog in her purse to add even more flavour to the setting. Did you find this useful? Any questions just ask away.
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Aug 4, 2009 10:47
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That's a pretty boss run.
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Aug 4, 2009 11:45
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Game thread is up: http://forums.somethingawful.com/showthread.php?threadid=3181647 - Get your chromed-up asses in there and post some characters!
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Aug 4, 2009 11:57
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My friend showed up to yesterday's game session with this absolutely awesome 4th Ed. character creator spreadsheet. Seriously, someone spent waaaay too much time on this and I'll be damned if I'm not going to take advantage of their labors.
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Aug 4, 2009 14:17
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So just so I have this straight - COMBAT: Runner (  )Bad Guy (  ) I shoot at him with my handgun (rolls AGIL+Pistols) - 3 hits! I roll REACTION - 1 hit! I deal 6P (4P for the gun + 2 net hits) I roll BODY + Armor/Ballistic. 3 hits! I take 3P damage, and a -1 dice pool to all rolls from here out because of the condition track.
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Aug 5, 2009 01:35
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tendrilsfor20 posted:So just so I have this straight - COMBAT: That, sir, is how you shoot an ork.
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Aug 5, 2009 01:48
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PierreTheMime posted:That, sir, is how you shoot an ork. Also, the wound penalties - do those stack (so if I have 3P and 3S on me, do I take -2 to everything)? or just use the worse one?
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Aug 5, 2009 01:58
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tendrilsfor20 posted:Do you ever require more than one hit to succeed? Like, trying to hit a guy behind cover takes 2 hits? Or is it always 'subtract from the dice pool to increase difficulty'? No, the difficulty of such an action can reduce the number of dice the player is rolling. Only making one success, however, means that the guy behind the cover can pretty easily make a check to avoid the attack using their Reaction (provided they know its coming). Wound modifiers stack. My friends and I call 9P and 9S the "sweet spot."
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Aug 5, 2009 02:05
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tendrilsfor20 posted:Also, the wound penalties - do those stack (so if I have 3P and 3S on me, do I take -2 to everything)? or just use the worse one?
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Aug 5, 2009 02:05
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PierreTheMime posted:No, the difficulty of such an action can reduce the number of dice the player is rolling. Only making one success, however, means that the guy behind the cover can pretty easily make a check to avoid the attack using their Reaction (provided they know its coming).
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Aug 5, 2009 02:10
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tendrilsfor20 posted:Which brings me to awareness. Say one of the runners is a sniper on a building roof two blocks away when fighting spills out into the street. Would you rule his first shot gets a "No REAC roll" bonus because he's completely not in the fight? Unless there is a reason otherwise, like that the target is aware due to magical or technological security or that they have a Detect Enemies spell sustained at a sufficient Force to extend to the range of the sniper. Otherwise, yeah. Snipers get a good first shot. Of course, the runners are subject to the same sniping schnannigans if this starts getting too out of hand.
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Aug 5, 2009 02:14
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The real trick is to not let the sniper shot get out of hand. A run should be about setting up the sniper shot not the shot itself. Have a read through page 155 of the rule book (non-20th). It contains the rules for surprise. A character with a good perception and a high initiative can see and react to a sniper shot. But in general the player or NPC will be rolling up a new character after the first if not the second shot (simple action to fire). In the combat example above don't forget the runners best friend, the smartlink. Bonus 2 dice, thank you very much. LintMan's SR tip of the day: When designing and upgrading characters remember that specializing is one of the best Karma/build point per bonus dice things you can spend.
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Aug 5, 2009 11:12
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LintMan posted:LintMan's SR tip of the day: When designing and upgrading characters remember that specializing is one of the best Karma/build point per bonus dice things you can spend. I just feel so dirty specializing. It just feels so min-maxy to me.
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Aug 5, 2009 11:49
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There is worst things you do rules wise than specialisation. Example: Ork has the most stat increases for the fewest build points or using Spirits of Man to cast and sustain spells for you because your too cheap to buy a sustaining foci.
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Aug 5, 2009 12:14
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LintMan posted:There is worst things you do rules wise than specialisation. Oh I know, I spent weeks making some horrible combat beast in 3e. I wish I still had the sheet, or the patience to remake him. I really shouldn't feel bad about doing it in 4th, I find (especially when making awakened) that I lack the points to do everything I want to do, and specializing easily gives you back 10 points if you're liberal enough with it.
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Aug 5, 2009 12:28
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Would McGravin please pop by our 4E game thread? If you're still interested, that is. It's here: http://forums.somethingawful.com/showthread.php?threadid=3181647 Edit: In the interest of continuity I will let someone else have your spot if you don't sign in before next week. Tias fucked around with this message at 14:03 on Aug 5, 2009 |
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Aug 5, 2009 12:37
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In case anyone is interested I've been writing a Shadowrun CYOA for the past few months and it amounts to a full afternoon of reading so far, if not more. I had to stop writing recently but I'll be starting with the writing again sometime tomorrow. http://forums.somethingawful.com/showthread.php?threadid=3138063
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Aug 11, 2009 02:31
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