Quick Answer
A beginner netrunner should not invest only in Intelligence while ignoring survival. Intelligence drives quickhacks, Technical Ability supports cyberware capacity and durability, and a backup weapon covers cooldown or RAM gaps. Remote control is powerful, but you still need a plan when enemies close in.
Attribute Direction
| Attribute | Role | Beginner Advice |
|---|---|---|
| Intelligence | Quickhacks, access points, queue strength | Main investment |
| Technical Ability | Cyberware capacity and toughness | Strong second priority |
| Cool | Stealth and silenced weapon support | Add if playing stealth netrunner |
| Reflexes or Body | Mobility or durability | Add based on backup weapon |
Netrunner does not mean never shooting. A stable route weakens enemies with quickhacks, then finishes isolated targets with a pistol, smart weapon, or melee option.
Quickhack Roles
| Need | Hack Direction |
|---|---|
| Opening a fight | Control or expose enemies first |
| Clearing weak targets | Use low-cost damage or spread effects |
| Fighting elites | Control movement before stacking damage |
| Staying stealthy | Handle cameras, drones, and alarm chains first |
If RAM constantly runs dry, reduce the number of targets you tag at once and let weapons or the environment finish softened enemies.
Cyberware Priorities
| Priority | Direction | Why |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Operating system and RAM support | Defines netrunner power |
| 2 | Armor and survival | Prevents one mistake from ending the fight |
| 3 | Mobility | Helps reposition after detection |
| 4 | Weapon support | Covers direct combat |