Cyberpunk 2020

Cyberpunk 2020

Cyberpunk 2020 is street-level sci-fi with bite. You play mercs, hackers, and fixers trying to get paid in a city run by megacorps. Sessions feel tight and tense, full of neon, noise, and hard bargains. Jobs range from data theft to bodyguard work to messy cleanups when a deal goes south. The appeal is straightforward: make bold choices, upgrade your chrome, and see how far your crew will go. It is stylish, violent, and human, with consequences that stick.

It works well for curious first-timers and for veterans who love tactical choices. A professional Game Master keeps the rules light when you need speed and digs deep when you want crunch. Great for one-night heists, thrilling birthdays, and team events that require planning under pressure. Expect adult themes and a gritty tone. Play in person or online. If you want a specific vibe—stealthy, loud, or cerebral—browse our Game Masters and pick someone whose style matches your crew.

Reserve nowHow to play

How to play Cyberpunk 2020

Most actions use a simple test. Roll a ten-sided die, add a relevant stat and skill, and try to meet the difficulty set by the Game Master. On your turn, you describe what you do, the GM explains the stakes, you roll, and then you all play out the results. Combat uses initiative to determine order, then you move, attack, or take cover. Weapons hit hard, armour absorbs some damage, and injuries matter, so planning and cover are essential.

You bring a character with a clear role such as Solo, Netrunner, Tech, Nomad, or Fixer, along with a brief idea of their style. Choose a couple of signature tools, a look, and a reason for taking the job. The Game Master provides the mission, maps or zones, NPCs with sharp motives, and safety tools. A one-shot is a focused job with quick prep and a clean end. A campaign tracks reputation, rival crews, bigger paydays, and the cost of cyberware on body and mind.

For online play, the GM may use a virtual tabletop for maps, autofire, and gear, or keep it theatre of the mind for speed. Expect handouts, audio, and clear visuals either way. If you want to see what tools are common for remote sessions, visit online play platforms.

Game Master moves a large miniature across a lava-themed battle map during a fantasy roleplaying encounter.
Game Master moves a large miniature across a lava-themed battle map during a fantasy roleplaying encounter.
A red, marble-textured ten-sided dice showing the numbers 5 and 9 in gold, used for tabletop RPG adventure games.
A red, marble-textured ten-sided dice showing the numbers 5 and 9 in gold, used for tabletop RPG adventure games.
Close-up of a red 12-sided die with gold numbers, used for fun fantasy board games.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do we need to know any rules to get started?

Not at all. A professional Game Master teaches the basics in minutes, then guides you as you play. They explain options before the dice are rolled, call for rolls when the stakes matter, and handle the calculations. Premade characters are available, or you can quickly create one using a Lifepath that provides you with contacts and challenges. Expect a moderate level of complexity that unfolds in small steps. You will feel at home by the first scene.

What distinguishes Cyberpunk 2020 from D&D?

There is no magic, and firearms change the pace. Skills are more important than classes, and equipment and cyberware define your advantage. Cover and positioning are more effective than standing toe to toe. Jobs revolve around legwork, heists, protection, and tough negotiations, rather than dungeon crawls. Choices have social consequences that linger. Character creation employs a Lifepath, so your past connects you to allies, enemies, and habits that the GM incorporates into the game.

Is combat truly lethal, and how do you manage that?

Yes, firefights can be intense. A lucky shot or a burst can take anyone down. Armor provides some protection but can wear out, and injuries can accumulate quickly. The GM clarifies the stakes before you act, allowing you to choose smart tactics such as cover, suppression, retreat, and negotiation. Medical assistance is available, but timing and access are crucial. The atmosphere is tense yet fair, with safety tools tailored to your group’s comfort while maintaining a meaningful threat.

How does netrunning function without sidelining others?

Classic netrunning can be a puzzle in itself. Your GM conducts hacks on the same timeline as the team, with clear objectives, quick rolls, and regular cutbacks to the action. Other players remain engaged by providing intel, protecting the hacker, or creating distractions. Complex intrusions can be prepared as legwork to maintain the mission's momentum. For remote tables, popular virtual tabletops facilitate mapping and dice rolling. See examples on online play platforms.

What types of characters can we play?

Iconic roles include Solo, Netrunner, Tech, Nomad, Fixer, Cop, Media, Rockerboy, and Corporate. Each has a distinct focus, ranging from gunfighting to hacking to social influence. You don’t need a perfect mix; two Techs or two Solos can still stand out with different approaches. Premade sheets are available, or you can roll a Lifepath for connections and backstory that ground you in the city and enhance gameplay.

What group size and session length are most effective here?

Three to five players is the ideal number for spotlight and tactics. Two works well for stealthy jobs. Six is manageable with short turns and clear objectives. A one-shot typically lasts 3 to 4 hours, which is sufficient for briefing, legwork, the operation, and fallout. Campaign sessions can extend longer as contacts and rivals develop. To find a GM whose pacing aligns with your group, browse available Game Masters.

Booking Form

Click to select dates
0/1500
Illustration of a dragon perched on a rock, with wings spread and detailed line art, similar to a dragon from lotr.

Sent!

Illustration of a dragon perched on a rock, with wings spread and detailed line art, similar to a dragon from lotr.

Critical fail, try again!

Please try again or email info@storyforgerscanada.com

Genres you can play in Cyberpunk 2020

  • Cyberpunk

    Neon nights, buzzing servers, and tough decisions. You take on the roles of hackers, street samurai, and fixers executing jobs for and…

    View genre: Cyberpunk

  • Gritty

    Difficult decisions, limited resources, and lasting consequences. Imagine Game of Thrones, where trust is tenuous, debts must be repaid…

    View genre: Gritty

  • Crime

    Pull off a slick heist, track down a killer, or navigate the mob's code. Crime games balance strategy, pressure, and morally ambiguous…

    View genre: Crime
  • by Tessa

    Heist

    Gather your team, scout the target, and execute the heist. Picture Ocean's Eleven, complete with ingenious strategies, skilled roles, near…

    View genre: Heist

  • Dystopian

    Struggle to survive in a world that monitors your every action, reminiscent of 1984. Conceal, hack, and resist as you navigate oppressive…

    View genre: Dystopian

  • Espionage

    Tradecraft, dead drops, double agents, and high-stakes decisions under pressure. Imagine Mission: Impossible at the table, where every…

    View genre: Espionage

  • Conspiracy

    Uncover layers of deception as you follow leads through dimly lit rooms, encrypted files, and betrayals. Paranoia escalates with each clue…

    View genre: Conspiracy

  • Noir

    Neon, rain, and poor choices. Noir places you in the role of a weary detective or a doomed con artist in a city that conceals its decay…

    View genre: Noir
Explore all genres

What players are saying

  • Joran had 6 kids aged 12 fully engaged for the entire four hours. Most were playing for the first time. They were actively entertained from start to finish. At no point did anyone seem bored or irritated. Joran was also perfectly prepared and had great game materials on hand.

    Haiko

  • Ruby was amazing; this was our group's first DnD experience, and she helped everyone grasp the rules and enjoy themselves.

    Adam

  • We had a fantastic time; the boys really enjoyed their campaign, and Evan was excellent. I would definitely recommend Evan. Thank you!

    Cheidhia

  • Geert was a lot of fun and very enthusiastic! We were laughing so hard we could hardly breathe :D

    Wessel

  • It was an amazing experience for the girls! Thank you, Marie! You were incredibly well prepared, the girls were captivated by your every word, and it felt like you had been playing together for years! Looking forward to seeing you next time!

    Annick

  • Tom was amazing! He was really great with the kids and very patient with his explanations. It was a wonderful evening and definitely worth doing again! The kids asked the next day when we would be doing this again.

    Danny

  • First of all, I want to say that Sebastian was really great as a DM. For his first run as a booked DM, he did a really good job. The 3 stars refer to the following: 1. We were disappointed that the adventure was labelled a One Shot and yet wasn't a complete story. Discovering that there are two more parts wasn't very positive for us, as it meant there was no satisfying conclusion to the story. 2. As new players, it was difficult for us to understand the English character sheets in such a short time. In German, it would have been much easier. Even receiving the character sheets a few days in advance would have been helpful for preparation. 3. More guidance would be beneficial. Especially for beginners, a more linear one shot would have been preferable. We wasted a large portion of the adventure time doing unnecessary things because we didn't really know how the game worked. Overall, I think the StoryForgers concept is really good and I see a lot of potential in it, especially for introducing new players to D&D. I hope you don't take my feedback the wrong way but as honest criticism. Best regards, Mario

    Mario

  • Bryan was exceptional. We had a group with varying levels of experience, and he managed to keep everyone engaged and involved. His positive attitude made the game enjoyable for all. I truly appreciated how he could clearly explain what was needed from our less experienced players while keeping our more seasoned players on their toes with his expertise in the game. Everyone in our party had a fantastic time thanks to Bryan.

    Jeremy

  • Dayron was fantastic. Well-prepared. Punctual. And had a wonderful sense of humour.

    Corey

Similar game systems

  • Cyberpunk

    • Cyberpunk +7
    • 2 – 6 players
    • Moderate rules

    Dominate the neon sprawl with Cyberpunk RED, the near-future game of mercenaries, megacorps, and tough decisions from R. Talsorian Games. Experience fast, lethal action, sleek technology, and high-stakes heists. If you're familiar with Cyberpunk 2077, you already sense the grit and flair.

    View system: Cyberpunk

  • Shadowrun

    • Cyberpunk +7
    • 3 – 6 players
    • Comprehensive rules

    Neon streets, ruthless megacorps, and awakened magic collide. In Shadowrun, you are professional criminals executing heists, hacking systems, and negotiating with spirits. Imagine Blade Runner with elves and spells, led by a skilled Game Master who ensures the chaos remains engaging and enjoyable.

    View system: Shadowrun

  • Mistborn Adventure Game

    • Heist +7
    • 2 – 6 players
    • Moderate rules

    Plan audacious heists in the ash-laden world of Brandon Sanderson's Mistborn. You take on the role of a crew of thieves or rebels wielding metal-based powers to outsmart nobles and fearsome enforcers. A skilled Game Master designs intricate heists, intense political intrigue, and difficult decisions.

    View system: Mistborn Adventure Game

  • Blades in the Dark

    • Heist +7
    • 2 – 5 players
    • Moderate rules

    Execute bold heists as a team of rogues in a haunted industrial city. Blades in the Dark combines high-stakes thefts, harsh repercussions, and crew development, utilising flashbacks and stress to maintain a quick pace. Imagine Dishonored, but you and your friends are the ones orchestrating the action.

    View system: Blades in the Dark

  • Fiasco

    • Crime +6
    • 3 – 5 players
    • Simple rules

    Fiasco is a quick, GMless story game about small-time capers that go horribly wrong. Imagine the blend of crime, comedy, and disaster found in Fargo. You and your friends create tangled relationships, set up scenes, and witness ambitious plans unravel into funny, and at times, heartbreaking outcomes.

    View system: Fiasco

  • Genesys

    • High Fantasy +6
    • 2 – 6 players
    • Moderate rules

    Genesys is a universal tabletop RPG that prioritizes storytelling with custom symbol dice. With a professional Game Master, your group can dive into high fantasy quests, vibrant cyberpunk settings, or thrilling space operas, ranging from heists to heroic deeds. Imagine grand adventures in the spirit of The Lord of the Rings.

    View system: Genesys

  • Paranoia

    • Dystopian +7
    • 3 – 6 players
    • Simple rules

    Serve The Computer. Be wary of your friends. Laugh when the mission goes awry. Paranoia is a satirical sci-fi RPG featuring clones, treachery, and backstabbing loyalty tests. Imagine 1984 with a comedic twist. Simple rules, quick turns, and delightful player scheming.

    View system: Paranoia

  • Orbital Blues

    • Western +7
    • 2 – 5 players
    • Simple rules

    Navigate the fringes as outlaw spacers balancing jobs, debts, and heartache. Orbital Blues is a rules-light space western filled with heists, narrow escapes, and found family. Picture Cowboy Bebop, then make it your own across dusty ports and vibrant dives.

    View system: Orbital Blues
Explore all gaming systems
Black diagonal cross icon, commonly used to close popups or dismiss notifications on websites.

We’re Looking for Dungeon Masters!

StoryForgers is on the hunt for passionate and creative Dungeon Masters to join our team.
Are you interested?