Rules reference

Character creation in Cyberpunk RED

Creation steps and common decision points. Cyberpunk RED is a tabletop RPG set in Night City in the year 2045, a dystopian future where corporations rule, cyberware is common, and life is cheap. Players take on the roles of Edgerunners—cyberpunks, netrunners, solos, and other denizens of the mean streets trying to survive and thrive in a world of chrome and corruption.

Key points

Use this as a checklist, then build your character in RPG Stack.

Copyable facts
  • 10 Roles: Netrunner, Solo, Tech, Medtech, Media, Exec, Lawman, Fixer, Nomad, Rockerboy
  • d10 system: Roll Stat + Skill + 1d10 against Difficulty Value
  • Improvement Points (IP): Used instead of XP for advancement
  • Cyberware system: Enhance abilities but cost Humanity
  • Role Abilities: Unique powers for each Role
  • Combat system: Fast-paced action with armor, weapons, and cyberware
Creation order (from system.json)
  1. Choose role (fixer, netrunner, solo, etc.).
  2. Roll or choose Lifepath background (family, motivations, events).
  3. Distribute STATs: 62 points (players may buy up to role limit). Each STAT must be 2–8 at creation, except Luck (2–10).
  4. Pick Role Ability rank (starts at 4 for Edgerunner mode; GM may vary).
  5. Assign Skills: 86 points (none above 6 at creation, except Language/Role ability).
  6. Choose starting Gear package per Role.
  7. Choose Cyberware (basic cyberware at start is free; chrome must respect Humanity Loss).
  8. Calculate Derived Stats: Humanity, Hit Points, Death Save, Move, Carry, Armor.
  9. Finalize Lifepath details (Style, Clothes, Contacts, Enemies, etc.).
Examples
Example: Concept first

Start with a simple concept (role + vibe), then choose attributes/skills that support it. You can fill details later.

Example: One signature move

Make sure your sheet supports a signature action you want to do often (investigate, intimidate, hack, heal, etc.).

Common mistakes (smallest fix)
  • Mistake: Skipping concept and getting lost in options. Fix: Pick a role, pick 2 strengths, pick 1 weakness, then fill details.
  • Mistake: Not aligning your sheet with the campaign. Fix: Ask what kind of scenes you’ll play (combat, investigation, politics) and build for that.
Character creation
Step-by-step checklist.
Cheat sheets
Quick lookup while you play.

Cyberpunk RED FAQ

What are Roles in Cyberpunk RED?
How does the d10 system work in Cyberpunk RED?
How does Improvement Points (IP) work?
How does cyberware affect Humanity?
What's the difference between Stats and Skills?

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