I am currently in a group playing Cyberpunk: RED and, while I am enjoying the GM’s play style and plot, I feel like we’re not utilizing the system to its full extent. Particularly, we have dropped initiative, the XP system, and the very, very detailed way it handles “damage to body parts.” What might be a good system to switch to while still keeping the feel of the game? I’ve looked for any PbtA games, but there seem to be none in the cyberpunk genre. I personally would prefer a narrativist sort of game but I’m okay with a little bit of crunch in combat (and I think the other players/GM would agree with me).
I love cyberpunk and have run many different systems and settings over the years. A few years ago I picked up The Sprawl a PBtA book and it clicked. Of course very narrative but with the cyberpunk stuff you want- hacking, gear, cyberware but without a ton of book keeping.
Is it perfect? No, but it’s a good fit if you like to narrative games. It’s default is mission based gameplay, but have done several campains breaking out of that mission structure. Doing a Shadowrun campain right now :)
I can’t recommend it enought! DM me happy to chat more!
http://www.ardens.org/games/the-sprawl/
Hey! I’m looking at the system online and I’m liking what I’m seeing! I’m (very) broadly familiar with PbtA’s system and I am fairly sure that this will get a positive reaction! Our #1 gripe has been the over-complexity with the synthetic mechanics and weird hacking mechanics in RED’s system. Thanks a ton :)
Also I am very happy to run a one shot online for you and your group! I can do a solid one in 4 hours and should help you see if it’s worth your time. :)