Cyberpunk Red

The current edition of the iconic cyberpunk RPG. Streamlined rules, improved Netrunning, and the Time of the Red setting. Compatible with Cyberpunk 2077 video game lore.

At-a-glance

Cyberpunk • 3-5 players • Needs GM • 4/5 complexity • Medium prep

Cyberpunk Red

What is Cyberpunk Red? Cyberpunk Red is R.

Theme and Setting

Talsorian Games' current edition of the legendary cyberpunk tabletop RPG, released in 2020. Set in 2045 during the "Time of the Red"—the aftermath of the Fourth Corporate War—it bridges the gap between the classic Cyberpunk 2020 era and the world of Cyberpunk 2077.

How Play Feels

Created by Mike Pondsmith and team, Red streamlines the classic Interlock system while preserving the gritty, high-tech, low-life essence that defined the genre. It's the definitive edition for both newcomers discovering Night City through the video game and veterans returning to the tabletop.

What Makes It Distinct

Core Improvements Over Cyberpunk 2020 Streamlined Netrunning The most significant change: Netrunners now operate in real-time alongside the team. No more "Netrunner goes solo for 45 minutes" syndrome.

Where It May Not Fit

You want a very light rules load You dislike tactical combat or heavier encounter procedure.

Decision guide

What this game is about

Key facts
Players
3-5 players + GM
Session
180-240 minutes
Prep
Medium
Play profile
Complexity
4/5
New GM Fit
2/5
Roleplay Focus
4/5
Combat Focus
3/5
Tactical Depth
4/5
Campaign Depth
4/5
Who it suits
Best for
Tables that want future pressure, technology, and social decay in playTables that enjoy tuning characters and expressing concepts mechanicallyLong-form campaigns with room for the table to build momentum
Avoid if
You want a very light rules loadYou dislike tactical combat or heavier encounter procedureYou mainly want short standalone sessions with minimal carryover

A strong fit for groups that want future pressure, technology, and social decay in play, with character Customization helping define the experience.

Agent data

Structured data and an explicit decision profile JSON document are available for remote agents.

Open agent JSON