Netrunner
- Players
- 2
- Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
- 2 players
- Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
- 45 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 10+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 2.9 / 5
- Year
- 1996
About the game
Netrunner is a cyberpunk collectible card game pitting a Corp player, who wins by completing Agendas, against a Runner, who wins by infiltrating the Corp's servers and stealing them. Both sides manage limited actions and money each turn, and the Runner physically moves across a "board" of facedown Corp cards, giving the game a capture-the-flag feel. Designed by Richard Garfield, matches are played as two submatches with each player taking both roles. Its influence later led to the acclaimed Android: Netrunner.
Hobbli's Notes
Hobbli's editors regard this as a legendary, hugely influential design: the asymmetric Corp-vs-Runner structure and physical board infiltration were genuinely ahead of their time. A must-know for serious card game historians.
What we like
- Groundbreaking asymmetric Corp-vs-Runner design.
- Deep strategic play beyond raw card power.
- Physical board infiltration adds a unique tactile feel.
- Highly influential, later reborn as Android: Netrunner.
Keep in mind
- Collectible card game format requires buying packs to stay competitive.
- Strictly two-player format limits group use.
- Steep learning curve for newcomers to the asymmetric roles.
Who it's for
CCG and asymmetric card game fans; ages 12+, strictly two players, great for competitive play.
