vi 
INTRODUCTION
“Striding the battlefield like the
unholy progeny of Ares himself, the
TAG is the ultimate war machine
of the Human Sphere. Built to
unleash and withstand unequalled
armaments in equal measure, the
TAG is not a subtle tool of war. It
is a weapon that breaks worlds
and crushes the enemy under
an armoured heel. A weapon at
the cutting edge of technology
that offers no quarter, leaving
only the vultures to harvest the
remains. If you let them, that is.
Total Protection also means total
domination of the battlefield.”
Partial recording of a black market
arms deal between unknown
parties, Novvy Bangkok.
WHAT’S IN
THIS BOOK?
This book takes an in-depth
look at the TAG and its closest
cousin, power armour. Keeping
with the powered automaton
theme, Remotes and upgrade
options are also explored, plus
rules guidance for players
looking to run amok and
GMs wanting to offer them
a challenge.
2 Introduction
GODS OF WAR
Tactical Armoured Gear, or TAG for short, is the
monarch of the battlefield in the not-too-distant
future. Conceived as a response to the unwieldiness
of heavy armour during fast-paced interstellar mil-
itary campaigns, TAG designs took full advantage
of technological enhancements available with the
advent of the quantronic age to take warfare to
a whole new level. Without hyperbole, the TAG is
the most powerful piece of protective equipment
available to any individual seeking to make their
trade in bloodshed. Designed with the concept of
total protection in mind, these armoured behe-
moths stride the battlefields of the Human Sphere
sweeping all before them.
A word of caution to any would-be pilot, however.
Stepping into the role of king or queen of the
battlefield will also make you a prime target, for
there are always skilled hackers and anti-armour
specialists out there just itching to peel away
the armoured layers and expose the soft skin
underneath.
CHAPTER 1 — TOTAL PROTECTION
Taken from the viewpoint of the pilots that
operate them, “Total Protection” covers various
TAGs from across the factions of the Human
Sphere. Encompassing a plethora of TAGs,
this chapter doesn’t just provide rules for
these epic war machines but also goes one
step further to offer attributes and special
abilities for both the TAGs themselves and
the pilots entrusted with their firepower.
CHAPTER 2 — POWER ARMOUR
Despite being the slightly smaller cousin of the
TAG, power armour is ubiquitous across the Human
Sphere. Every faction is capable of fielding several
of their own variants, each of which is often known
for a unique quirk or capability. This chapter delves
into the attributes of the various models available
to the G5 nations. More than a simple listing of
each variant of powered armour, however, this
chapter also takes an in-depth look at the creation,
development, and alternative applications of these
armoured exoskeletons.
CHAPTER 3 — REMOTE
ASSISTANCE
A variety of Remotes have been designed for
numerous functions across the Human Sphere.
From the Armbot and Crabbot, to the Snifferbot
and Zondbot, this chapter incorporates them all.
This chapter also includes comprehensive rules
for upgrading the design of a Remote, with several
different options for how best to tackle this.
CHAPTER 4 — OPTIONS
AND UPGRADES
The options and upgrades chapter is a one-
stop-show for every TAG pilot or Remote
operator to tinker with the design and
loadout of the machine. This chapter features
comprehensive rules for upgrading both TAGs
and Remotes using a hardpoint system.
A full catalogue of upgrades is also featured,
ranging from the unique and extremely high-tech
2DA magazine housing pioneered by ALEPH, to
life support upgrades, and the obvious yet brutal
Porcuspines. This chapter has an upgrade for
every scenario.
CHAPTER 5 — LIFEPATHS
Although they are the familiar faces that receive
all of the glory, a TAG doesn’t just stand on its feet
thanks to its pilot. Offering plenty of advice, life-
path options, and specialisation routes for forging
a career as a TAG pilot, this chapter also provides
alternative career opportunities for those who
provide a more supporting role to these armoured
behemoths and the business they deal in. From the
arms dealers who can afford to trade them, to the
crew who maintain them, there are a number of
options for choosing a career outside of the cockpit.
CHAPTER 6 — ARMOURED
CAMPAIGNS
A TAG in the hands of an enemy can make for a
dangerous and memorable foe. They can also
make for remarkable campaigns when they are in
the hands of every PC. This chapter explores the
concept of an armoured campaign, which can relate
to an entire player group of TAGs, or a handful in
a more rounded group. Options for handling costs
are discussed, as are relative power levels, and the
types of objectives that would make suitable goals
for these mighty machines.
CHAPTER 7 — ADVERSARIES
TAGs are super-sized behemoths capable of
wreaking havoc on all before them. Dropping one
into a scenario as an adversary can require careful
thought and planning on the GM’s part. With stats
for a range of TAGs from across the Human Sphere,
plus additional breakdowns for gunships, TAG
Hunters, and weapons platforms, this chapter has
everything a GM could need to throw the ultimate
adversary at their PCs.

CHAPTER 1
TOTAL PROTECTION
Since their first appearance on the battlefields of
the Central American Campaign, Tactical Armoured
Gears, or TAGs, have all but entirely replaced
ancient helicopters and tanks as battlefield
weapons systems. All-terrain, far more agile, more
intuitive to pilot, and requiring only a single
crewmember to deploy, they not only ensured
PanOceania’s victory in that campaign, they
changed military warfare forever. Though modern
models have significantly condensed or simplified
their systems, TAGs remain prohibitively expensive
and rare outside of a handful of extremely
profitable heavy industrial applications. This is in
part due to nations’ attempts to keep their most
powerful weapons exclusive, ensuring their impact
on the battlefield. With so few TAGs available,
commanders will overlook a chequered history for
candidates with a rare combination of ace piloting,
steady aim, surefooted agility, and unshakeable
resolve, provided they can pass a TAG unit’s
rigorous training evaluations. Even in PanOceania
and Yu Jing’s professional militaries, a high
percentage have a complicated history as corporate
chauffeurs in high-risk markets, illegal racers or
RULES CLARIFCATIONS
Where TAG details, abilities, or pricing differ
from earlier publications, this chapter should be
considered the definitive source. Unlike ordinary
vehicles, TAGs do not always have Superhuman
Brawn ratings equal to their Scale, as a great
deal of their musculature is devoted to remaining
upright and mobile. This is particularly the
case with older models. Though designed to
brawl when necessary, TAG Impact damage
does gain the Backlash X quality when ramming,
sideswiping, or otherwise making unarmed and
melee attacks, but only against targets of equal or
greater Scale. Pilots with 3 or more Pilot Talents
can ignore Backlash against targets of equal
Scale as well. TAGs can become Prone, though
due to their size, attacks against them are only
at +1 difficulty at Long range or further, instead
of at Medium range. Adversary pilots use their
Movement skill for TAG Movement or Piloting
tests (including Stealth), and their Combat skill for
Ranged, Close Combat, or Melee attacks.
OPTIONAL RULES
With GM permission, a TAG’s pilot can do any of
the following:
THE ROLEPLAYING GAME
underground fighters, mercenary remote controllers WHAT YOU’LL
or gunship combatants, or even criminal smugglers FIND IN
before earning or otherwise clawing their way into THIS CHAPTER
a TAG cockpit. As a result, most TAG jocks, jaqs, and
• TAG rules and clarifications
jaes are a rare combination of prideful professional,
hard-bitten soldier, adrenaline junkie, and tightly • A catalogue of TAGs,
wound survivor. organised by faction
• Representative Adversary
TAGs' rarity and dramatic impact on combat carries pilots for each TAG
over to popular culture, particularly children’s • Pricing for Human
Maya programmes, inspiring an entire ecosystem of Sphere TAGs
tropes, traditions, and parodies. While few civilians,
particularly outside of PanOceania, will ever see a
TAG up close much less sit behind one’s controls,
they inspire imagination and obsession and fear
across the Human Sphere. The pilots’ realities, of
course, are at times more banal, more vicious, more
frightening, more brutal, and even more dramatic
and awe-inspiring than any writer’s imagination.
But then, imagining’s half the fun, isn’t it? Make
the right friends, the wrong enemies, and you just
might encounter a TAG up close, far sooner than
you dreamed. If you’re lucky, you might even survive
to tell the tale.
• If the TAG has Hands, make an unarmed attack
with damage equal to its Impact rating using
the Close Combat skill instead of Pilot. Close
Combat can also be used to make melee attacks
with a wielded weapon, or to shake off intruders
standing or climbing on the TAG. The pilot cannot
take advantage of Close Combat Talents for these
actions unless the TAG specifically enables it.
• If the TAG has Walker, use their Acrobatics skill
instead of Pilot for Defence Reactions to dodge
ranged or melee attacks. They cannot take
advantage of Acrobatics Talents for these actions
unless the TAG specifically permits it.
• If the TAG has both Hands and Walker, use their
Athletics skill to hold on to weapons, to climb, or
to make difficult terrain tests. They cannot take
advantage of Athletics Talents for these actions
unless the TAG specifically permits it.
• Make a Standard Action Hacking (D2) test to
reset the TAG, allowing it to fully recover its
Firewall, but tests to use it are at +4 difficulty. This
penalty decreases by one at the start of each of
the pilot’s turns, and they may spend Momentum
to reduce this penalty by one per Momentum
spent, though not below +1 difficulty.
TOTAL PROTECTION 3
ALEPH
NEMESIS APPEARANCE The Aspect quietly explained the
ISKOBA | SSS POSTHUMAN situation — how Iskoba’s months of
As a Posthuman, Iskoba can rapidly ghost furtive preparation were carefully
ATTRIBUTES between different proxy i-Lhosts, usually monitored and documented — and then
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL tall, androgynous bodies with extremely described two futures. In one, an intruder
13 (+1) 10 8 12 1 8 8 (+2)
pale skin, decorated with bold strokes of was shot and killed in an attempted
a single bright colour of paint. In Maya break-in, regrettably destroying their
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE and a public augmented reality feed their Cube. Terrible misunderstanding, very
Combat +4 3 Movement +2 1 Social — — bodies vanish completely, leaving only sad, next channel. In another, a new
Fortitude +1 — Senses +1 1 Technical +4 3 the day’s paint strokes visible. For some Posthuman, freed from the frailties and
reason, careful observers will notice red failings of flesh and bone, could find
DEFENCES is never the couleur du jour. purpose and meaning and yes even an
Firewall 15 Resolve 11 Vigour 9 outlet for desires long-hidden, shedding
Security 4 Morale — Armour 1 ROLEPLAYING the husk of their unwanted life to become
something new, perfect, clean. The answer
ATTACKS • Bright: Upbeat and optimistic, curious was never in doubt. While the subsequent
• Cube 2.0-emulated Killer Hacking Device: CLAW-
about anything and everything, process of transformation took weeks,
0, SWORD-3, SHIELD-0, GADGET-0, IC-1, UPGRADE
knowledgeable, always interested in Iskoba was born in that moment.
Cybermask, Piercing 3 + 2§, bonus damage
seeing or hearing something new.
GEAR: Cube 2.0, multithreaded consciousness • Detached: Pays no attention to In the carefully monitored years
adaptation, at least one proxy i-Lhost on every populated
the needs or feelings of others, since, they have avoided any and all
Human Sphere world except Dawn
makes obscure references without connections to their former life, instead
SPECIAL ABILITIES explanation, walks away or outright patiently building a reputation as an
• Common Special Abilities: Fear 3, Inured to Disease
abandons proxies or dataspheres art critic and collector. No two of their
and Pain, Quantronic Jump, Superhuman Agility 1,
instantly when no longer interested in collections are the same, and once
Superhuman Willpower 2, Threatening 3
• Habagat: When ghosting a Marut TAG or proxy, the Heat a conversation or situation. completed according to some unspoken
cost for Reactions is reduced by one, to a minimum of 0, • In Their TAG: Prioritises killing hackers. criterion, the collections are sold down
and Heat spent for additional dice on Close Combat or They are extremely linear, fire while to the last piece during highly selective
Ballistics tests provide two dice instead of one. closing with the nearest enemy, and in-person-only auctions. Iskoba’s long
• Kamay: Up to three times during a scene where Iskoba is then eviscerate with their swords absences are presumed by their art-
present, the GM can reveal one of their proxies concealed and hands. world peers to be in the interest of this
at Long range of their location for 1 Heat. If not already complex artistic process. In truth, their
present, their Marut TAG can enter the battlefield at Long BACKGROUND serene detachment relies on periodic
range from any already-ghosted proxy instead for 3 Heat.
deployments ghosting an elaborately
• Malupit: They take 2§ mental damage each time
In their past life, the individual now customised Marut, inflicting sadistic
they kill an enemy, and each time they take a Metanoia
known as Iskoba was a PanOceanian brutality on the enemies of ALEPH and
from this damage, they must spend their next two turns
elaborately mutilating and ritually arranging the nearest painter and AR sculptor with a modest anyone else unfortunate enough to cross
corpse. following, an avid Aristea! and Dog-Bowl their path.
• Paleta: Iskoba can ghost between proxies or their TAG fan, and fond of wilderness hiking and
at will, and perform Reactions from any proxy they have travel. ALEPH alone knew they were
access to. While limited to a single Free, Minor, and also a nascent serial killer, who after
Standard Action per round, they can pay for and use Swift decades of fantasising and preying on
Action Momentum spends separately for each proxy or animals, finally reached the point of
TAG present once each per round. targeting human beings. They chose
a family of three’s remote farmhouse
and disconnected its Maya-link, but
when they broke inside, an SSS Chandra
Aspect greeted them instead of their
anticipated victims.

4 Chapter 1
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

ELITE
MARUT TAG SPECIAL ABILITIES:
ENCLOSED, GROUND, REMOTE PRESENCE,
SINGLE-SEAT, WALKER
Abhuman: Only Posthumans and Aspects SSS MARUT ASPECT
can pilot a Marut effectively. Even if ALEPH
ATTRIBUTES grants a human without Cube 2.0 control, they Created specifically to pilot an eponymous
have +1 difficulty and +3 complication range TAG, each Marut’s development is carefully
Scale Speed Brawn
on any action other than Careful Piloting guided to maximise ferocity, ruthlessness,
2 2 17 (+2) movement and suffer a Metanoia each time and menace. Recognising their capacity for
DETAILS the TAG suffers a Fault. destruction, ALEPH reserves them for when
Max. Passengers Impact Maanasoon: After making a ranged or melee it needs to deliver a powerful message and
attack, the Marut can make a Swift Action where only a handful of survivors at most are
0 3+7§ (Knockdown) Momentum spend to make another attack
Hard Points an acceptable outcome.
with any weapon of the same type (ranged or
Comms 1 (ECM 3, MSV 3), External 1 melee) unused this round for one Momentum
and can make that spend as many times as it In dataspheres, Maya, or AR, they present
DEFENCES has appropriate weapons (or free hands). themselves in forms that honour the storm
Structure 18 Firewall 10 deities whose name they bear, wielding
Tantiramāna: Ignores difficult terrain up to
Armour 8 BTS 9 half its controller’s Pilot Focus. thunderbolts and axes of lighting, wearing
golden helmets and breastplates, gritting
INTEGRAL WEAPONS: iron teeth, and riding golden chariots drawn
Heavy Flamethrower: Range C, 2+5 § damage, Burst 1, by ruddy horses. In combat, these guises drop
2H, Incendiary 3, Munition, Terrifying 2, Torrent completely. Designated only by a Transferred
Prototype Nanopulser: Range C, 1+5§ damage, Biotech, Identity Code, they are granted a temporary
Guided, Terrifying 2, Torrent, Vicious 2 “WILDHUNT” dispensation by ALEPH,
Open-Handed Strike: Melee, 3+7§, 1H, Stun, Subtle 1 empowering them to take whatever actions
they deem necessary to achieve objectives
WIELDED WEAPONS:
without regard for human life, property
AP Sword: Melee, 2+10§ damage, 1H, Parry 2, Piercing
2, Vicious 1 damage, or political consequence.
Prototype MULTI HMG: Range L, 2+5§ damage, 2H, After returning from action, in collaboration
Burst 3, Unwieldy, Guided, Medium MULTI, Spread 1,
with Bureau Toth, ALEPH carefully erases
Vicious 2, Unsubtle 1
any recordings, reports, or records of the
operation, to the degree that many nations’
Like the Hindu storm deities who inspired them, Maruts are fierce and daunting entities, analysts question the Maruts’ existence
ALEPH's ultimate combat incarnation. These remote presence TAGs are built in PanOceania, entirely. The truth is more terrifying than they
then further enhanced with cutting-edge prototypes and captured alien components. Their can imagine.
four-armed humanoid chassis bristle with exotic weaponry and optics. Each arm can attack
independently or work in pairs to wield separate weapon systems, and the dual-mode ATTRIBUTES
incendiary/smart-nanobot sprayer in the torso dissolves opponents foolish enough to enter AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
melee range. The full capabilities of the elaborately altered HMGs they bear are unknown
12 (+1) 10 6 12 (+1) 11 6 6 (+1)
beyond their terrifying accuracy. The price for this unmatched functionality is overwhelming
complexity, and the potential for intense dysphoria due to “missing” limbs afterwards. FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Combat +4 2 Movement +1 1 Social — —
Fortitude +1 — Senses +1 — Technical +2 —

DEFENCES
Firewall 11 Resolve 6 Vigour 6
Security 4 Morale 6 Armour —
ATTACKS
• Bonus Damage (per Attributes): +2§ Infowar, +2§
Ranged, +0 § Melee
• Aspect-Emulated Hacking Device Plus: CLAW-2, SWORD-1,
SHIELD-2, GADGET-3, IC-2, UPGRADE Sucker Punch, White
Noise
SPECIAL ABILITIES
• Common Special Abilities: Fear 2, Inured to Disease and
Pain, Quantronic Jump, Superhuman Agility 1, Superhuman
Coordination 1, Superhuman Willpower 1, Threatening 2
• Avatarana: When ghosting a Marut TAG, the Heat cost for
Reactions is reduced by one, to a minimum of 0, and Heat
spent for additional dice on Close Combat or Ballistics
tests provide two dice instead of one.

TOTAL PROTECTION 5
HAQQISLAM
NEMESIS APPEARANCE
KHALIL DARAB
A fit 191 cm, barrel-chested, green-eyed,
ATTRIBUTES and usually sporting a trim beard and
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL close-cropped black hair, this Captain
9 12 11 11 10 8 9 (+2)
of the Sword of Allah, or Yüzbaşı, looks
decades younger than his 72 years due
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE to Theraic anti-senescence treatment.
Combat +3 3 Movement +2 1 Social — — Irregular smooth patches and fine
Fortitude +3 3 Senses +2 1 Technical +1 1 scars on his face and torso testify to
multiple severe traumas rehabilitated
DEFENCES with Silk-based therapy, and he has an
Firewall 11 Resolve 15 Vigour 14 unmistakably military bearing.
Security 3 Morale 3 Armour 1 guard. From secret negotiations far
ATTACKS ROLEPLAYING
Implanted Viral Heavy Pistol: Range R/C, 2+7§ damage,
Burst 1, Unbalanced, Biotech, Grievous, Toxic 2, Unforgiving • On Duty: Humourless and suspicious,
1, Vicious 1 excellent posture and eye contact in
GEAR: Armoured Clothing (Uniform), MediKit, Inlaid conversation, compulsively looks over
Palm Circuitry (Pilot/Ballistics) anyone who enters or leaves the room.
SPECIAL ABILITIES
• Off Duty: Surprisingly careless in
• Common Special Abilities: Grasping, Inured to Pain, private, often snacking on a protein bar
Keen Senses (Hearing), Keen Senses (Sight), Superhuman or shake, and still somewhat gruff and
Willpower 2, Threatening 3 guarded in public spaces.
• Muhafiz: He can take the Guard Reaction without • In a TAG: Precise, even meticulous.
spending Heat and at -1 difficulty in response to an ally Khalil is fond of going hull down
being declared as the target of an attack. to force enemies to take cover, then
• Önsezi: Khalil’s cutting-edge Bimiristan-prototype charging into close range before they
Sixth Sense augmentation reduces the Heat cost of can take advantage of it.
his Acrobatics defence tests by one, grants 2 bonus
Momentum on all Acrobatics defence tests, and grants
him an additional 2d20 on surprise tests. Recognising
BACKGROUND
signs of the augmentation requires a Medicine (D3) or
Observation (D4) test, or Observation (D2) with a Sixth Khalil rose to the rank of Raqib Awwal,
Sense augmentation. or first sergeant, within the Maghariba
• Tatbikat: When in an Akrep or on foot, Khalil can drop Guard, protecting then-Hachib Mudassar
Prone and Brace, or Stand and Exploit, as a single Minor against multiple assassination attempts.
Action once a turn, though not as a Reaction. But when the Guard acquired their first
Bokböceği TAGs and became an armoured
cavalry unit, he was far from a natural
pilot. Struggling during manoeuvres, and
after a series of off-duty indiscretions and
embarrassing stumbles into buildings
while on parade, he was demoted back to
the novice rank of Arif, or corporal. This
humiliation lit a fire his superiors could
never have anticipated. Instead of quietly
resigning himself to his punishment or
leaving the Guard, Khalil spent the better
part of the next three years, including
personal leaves, on gruelling physical
conditioning and supplemental gunnery
and piloting training.
6 Chapter 1
In total, he repeated the equivalent of
the Guard’s TAG training six times, while
still completing his usual assignments
and postings. Over the next four decades
he regained and then surpassed his
previous rank, slowly earning the trust of
his peers through diligent service during
the NeoColonial Wars, a decade as an
unforgiving but skilled trainer in TAG
manoeuvres, and uncomplaining loyalty
to Mudassar and his successors, until at
the age of sixty-two Aisha bint Osman
chose him as the head of her personal
from support to public galas, he was at
her shoulder almost continuously from
her first inauguration until eighteen
months ago.
Supposedly to encourage his executive
officers’ initiative and independence,
Khalil now serves as a confidential
emissary for the Hachib, spending less
and less time on Bourak. Several national
intelligence agencies suspect the widely
publicised heist of a shipment of the
Maghariba Guard’s XPR-5 Akreps in June
of last year is in fact cover for future
covert actions under his command. His
telling absence during the theft and the
same timeframes as recent unattributed
anti-piracy assaults in Human Edge
circumstantially corroborate this theory.
Unsubstantiated reports also place
several former Guards discharged in a
bribery scandal two years ago in the
system during the same period. These
rumours only increase Khalil’s gravitas
when he again stands behind the Hachib
at key events, a sign the Guard considers
the occasion unusually dangerous.
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

Piloted by the prestigious Maghariba ELITE

AKREP TAG Guard, the XPR-5 Akrep (“scorpion”
ENCLOSED, GROUND, SINGLE-SEAT, WALKER,
WHEELED in Arabic) is a replacement for the MAGHARIBA GUARD
Artefaktech XPR-1 Bokböceği (“beetle”
ATTRIBUTES The cream of the crop of the Sword of Allah,
in Turkish), a PanOceanian design
Scale Speed Brawn Haqqislam’s state army, the celebrated
manufactured under licence on Bourak.
Maghariba Guard regiment are the personal
2 2 17 (+1) Updated with the best optical systems
guard of the nation’s popularly elected
available, the XPR-5 is so extensively
DETAILS Hachib, or President and Prime Minister.
retrofitted that its origins are barely
Max. Passengers Impact Before joining the regiment, each must
recognisable and so effective that the
1 2+7§ (Knockdown) undergo rigorous training as a discreet and
XPR-1 was rendered obsolete and sold
Hard Points attentive bodyguard, a skilled and disciplined
off to private buyers.
soldier, and a practiced and steady-
Chassis 1, Comms 0 (ECM 2), External 1 (360˚ Visor), Motive 1
handed medic. Only then, with unanimous
Instead of an axially mounted HMG,
DEFENCES recommendation from their instructors, can
it has an articulated tail mount for
Structure 16 Firewall 10 they begin training as TAG pilots, relentlessly
its Askari AS Laheeb MULTI HMG and
Armour 8 BTS 6 drilling on the Maghariba’s tactical playbook.
cutting-edge anti-ballistic defence
TAIL WEAPONS: canisters. The XPR-5 has four legs
Fewer than a quarter of trainees
MULTI HMG: Range L, 2+5§, damage, Burst 3, Unwieldy, instead of six for simpler maintenance
complete this gauntlet, particularly due to
Medium MULTI, MULTI Heavy Mod, Spread 1, Unsubtle 1 and a wider range of motion with grip-
morphological differences between Akreps’
SECONDARY WEAPONS:
tracks at the end of each leg enhancing
chassis and the human form, but those
Heavy Flamethrower: Range L, 2+5§ damage, Burst 3, speed and stability and modular “claws”
who do are hardened by the experience,
Unwieldy, Medium MULTI, MULTI Heavy Mod, Spread 1, increasing tactical flexibility in its front
rightly proud of their accomplishment, and
Unsubtle 1 arc. Needless to say, the Guard’s pilots are
deeply invested in the Guard. Many serve for
thrilled with their new mounts and have
OR 2x Heavy Pistols: Range R/C, 2+4§ damage, Burst 1, decades despite yearly re-testing, thanks in
Unbalanced, Piercing 2, Unforgiving 1, Vicious 1 put them to good effect during several
part to Akbar anti-senescence treatments
recent, albeit unreported, direct actions.
SPECIAL ABILITIES: and training rotations to ensure up-to-date
Clamber: Can ignore difficult or hazardous terrain X with a skills. While they present a uniform front,
Pilot (D(X-1)) test. customised Silk-based augmentations and
Hull Down: Not Hindered when Prone, and +3 Soak per Cover concealed cybernetic tools or weaponry are
dice Effect. quietly encouraged to surprise would-be
Qutb Rasasa: If Prone and Braced, a Swift Action Momentum assassins.
spend to make a second MULTI HMG attack costs only 1
Momentum. ATTRIBUTES
Rokh: Gains Tracked when piloted by a Maghariba Guard or AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
with Pilot Focus 5. 8 10 9 10 10 7 9 (+1)

FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Combat +2 2 Movement +2 2 Social — —
Fortitude +1 — Senses +1 — Technical +1 1

DEFENCES
Firewall 10 Resolve 10 Vigour 9
Security 3 Morale 3 Armour 1
ATTACKS
• Collapsible Viral Light Shotgun: Range C, 1+6§ damage,
Burst 1, Unwieldy, Area (Close), Biotech, Concealed 2,
Grievous, Knockdown, Spread 1, Toxic 2
• Collapsible Viral Baton: Melee, 1+5§ damage, Biotech,
Concealed 2, Grievous, Knockdown, Stun, Subtle 1, Toxic 2
GEAR: Armoured Clothing (Uniform), MediKit, Inlaid Palm
Circuitry (Pilot/Ballistics)
SPECIAL ABILITIES
• Common Special Abilities: Keen Senses (Sight),
Superhuman Willpower 1
• Muhafiz: They may take the Guard Reaction without
spending 1 Heat in response to an ally being declared as
the target of an attack.
• Taktik: Maghariba Guard can drop Prone and Brace their
Akrep with a single Minor Action.

TOTAL PROTECTION 7
MERCENARIES
NEMESIS APPEARANCE communes and style-gangs. Finally, she
LARI “MEDUSA” WILCO landed on a lab that was revamping
In her early 30s, Lari “Medusa” Wilco antiquated TAG designs into sufficiently
ATTRIBUTES stands at a compact 150 cm. with a functional models for the Nomad Military
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL wide mohawk of natural dreadlocks Force’s use. Though only a middling
12 10 11 12 8 10 7
trailing to her waist, umber skin inlaid technician, her small size and steady
with skill-circuitry patterns, and AR eye hands made her the perfect test pilot
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE implants usually set to a solid stony for prototype Lizards, overstuffed with
Combat +4 3 Movement +2 2 Social +1 1 grey. Wilco exclusively wears a battered components. When her lab’s design was
Fortitude +2 1 Senses +1 1 Technical +1 1 pilot’s suit from her NMF days, covered in accepted for deployment, she was one of
patches from across the Human Sphere — the few who could use it and joined the
DEFENCES thankfully it’s still self-cleaning. In zero-g, NMF at only seventeen.
Firewall 9 Resolve 9 Vigour 13 her flowing body language and salty
Security 3 Morale 3 Armour 0 vocabulary give her a presence belying Suddenly far from home and stuck in
BATTERED NMF her petite frame; she’s rarely as graceful monotonous guard duty for Commercial
LOUNGE-LIZARD SUIT in gravity wells. Missions in deep in a series of gravwells,
A modified Vac Suit with BTS 2, 2 Oxygen Loads, 1 AP she took solace in alcohol and a series
Reload and 1 Goonade in thigh pockets, a magnetic pistol of tumultuous relationships with
holster, and 2x Boot Knives: Melee, 1+5§ damage, 1H, ROLEPLAYING curious locals. Repeatedly sneaking
Concealed 2, Non-Hackable, Subtle 2, Thrown, Unforgiving 1 away from barracks, intoxication on
• Compulsive: Wilco carries her TAG’s AP duty, insubordination — even in the
GEAR: Armoured Clothing (Uniform), MediKit, Inlaid heavy pistol in a holster on her back, relatively flexible NMF, it was clear she
Palm Circuitry (Pilot/Ballistics)
shuffles through various eye colours wasn’t living up to her duties. Assaulting
“MEDUSA”, CUSTOM ANACONDA
3 TAG
if bored, is aggressively flirtatious a superior was the final straw, and at
• Adhesive Launcher: Range M, 1+8§ damage, Burst 1,
with nearly any woman who isn’t twenty she found herself dishonourably
Unwieldy, Area(Close), Immobilising, Knockdown, Munition, her subordinate, works out when discharged.
Nonlethal others aren’t in the gym, and prone to
• 8 Goonades/GOO Reloads: Disposable, Immobilising, blackout drinking if subordinates die, Disgraced, she took a month for a
Indiscriminate (Close), Knockdown, Nonlethal, Speculative bored, or between gigs. blackout bender and then a long hard
Fire, Thrown, Unsubtle • Seniority: She’s either in charge of a look at herself, found a Warmonger
• AP Heavy Pistol: Range R/C, 2+6§ damage, Burst 1, conversation or angling for it, both willing to take a chance on her and never
Unbalanced, Piercing 2, Unforgiving 1, Vicious 1 competitive and assertive. She’s looking back. Unlike the NMF, she doesn’t
GEAR: AR Eye Implants with MSV 1, Inlaid Palm protective of subordinates, especially leave anyone behind. It took years to
Circuitry (Ballistics /Pilot), Stims when it comes to getting paid. save up enough for her own TAG, even
SPECIAL ABILITIES • In Medusa: Wilco uses her adhesive with friends willing to give her a bargain.
• Goo Wiz: Can use GOO Reloads as throwable Goonades, launcher and goonades to immobilise Medusa’s her whole world, and Lari will
and vice versa, or convert one into a Goonade Mine with opposition, either bypassing them kill anyone who dents her hull or gets
a Standard Action Technical (D2) test. on the way to her objective or giving between her and her next payday.
• Jaq’d: Wilco’s augmentations grant her 1 bonus them a Called Shot coup de grâce to
Momentum on Ballistics and Pilot tests, and Observation the head with her AP heavy pistol.
or similar tests to notice important details.
• Mop Up: Can take the Exploit Action against Hindered
targets as a Minor Action, and make Called Shots against
BACKGROUND
Stuck targets for only 1 Heat.
• Vengeance: Wilco gains a bonus 2d20 on attacks against Though born and initially raised on
targets that previously dealt her a Wound or Medusa Corregidor, Lari’s fascination with Praxis
a Fault, inflicting +2§ damage when doing so, and and its seething brew of subcultures,
makes Return Fire Reactions against them for 2 less technological wonders, and stylish
Heat than usual (min 0). company soon drew her to a series of
adolescent experiments with utopic

8 Chapter 1
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

ANACONDA TAG X SPECIAL ABILITIES:
ENCLOSED, GROUND, HANDS, SINGLE-SEAT,
WALKER Black Secrets: At rating 2+, add an internal
Evac System upgrade. At rating 3, also add
ATTRIBUTES comms Neural Interface and Expert 1 upgrades.
Scale Speed Brawn In conflict with Nomad Military Forces or the
Mercenary TAG Squadron, lose all X benefits
2 2 16 (+1)
to BTS, and add +X complication range to
DETAILS Acrobatics, Hacking, and Observation tests.
Max. Passengers Impact Custom Comfort: Personalised smart-material
1 2+7§ (Knockdown) cushioning and environmental mods are
standard even for stock Anacondas, providing +1
Hard Points Morale Soak.
Chassis 1, Comms 2, External 1, Internal 1, Motive 1, Weapons 0 ZG-Jets: Ignores penalties imposed by zero-g
DEFENCES conditions.
Structure 14+X Firewall 8+X
Armour 4+X BTS 4+X
Best known as the iconic mounts of the
MOUNTED WEAPONRY: Anaconda Mercenary TAG Squadron,
• Panzerfaust: Range L, 2+5§ damage, Burst 1, 2H, ordinary Anacondas are obsolete,
Munition, Piercing 2, Spread 1, Unsubtle 1, Vicious 2 PanOceanian Reptile Series, heavy
LOADOUT ALPHA: reconnaissance TAGs with below-
• Spitfire: Range M, 1+5§ damage, Burst 3, 2H, Spread average armour, a built-in FGA MLN
2, Unsubtle 1 Panzerfaust, and two loadout options for
• Light Flamethrower: Range C, 1+4§ damage, Burst 1, integrated weaponry. Along with modern
2H, Incendiary 3, Munition, Terrifying 2, Torrent miniaturisation techniques, however,
LOADOUT BRAVO: unused space in the chassis enables
• HMG: Range L, 2+5§ damage, Burst 3, Unwieldy, considerable alteration. For the right
Spread 1, Unsubtle 1 price, Praxis’s Black Laboratories will
partially replicate their Lizard revamp:
• Chain-Colt: Range C, 1+4§ damage, Burst 1, 2H,
lightweight polyceramic-compound plate
Concealed 1, Torrent, Vicious 1
armour, superior neural interfaces and
kinetic actuators, even firewall hardening
and an evac system. Accounts from mercs
who’ve faced the squadron TAG-to-TAG
indicate some secrets are kept in reserve
even from trusted outsiders.
ELITE
MERC SNAKE-J
Compared to military units, mercenary stand-
ards for professionalism and discipline are
shockingly low, and yet the most lackadai-
sical captain won’t allow an untrusted pilot
behind the controls of a TAG. Even a basic
TAG, while inexpensive by national militaries’
standards, can constitute a sizeable percent-
age of a private mercenary company’s assets,
one they don’t risk casually. As a result, most
mercenary Anaconda jocks, jaqs, and jaes are
veterans of a national military service who
passed training and spent several years as a
TAG pilot before going (or being forced to go)
freelance.
Of course, records are easy to fake, and many
commanders are willing to overlook a pilot’s
hazy credentials if they perform well in
the field. Fakes usually reveal their failings
within a few engagements. The lucky ones
are red flagged and blackballed, but most
don’t survive their peers’ informal feedback,
the pilot’s corpse and the crushed remnants
of their Cube tossed out the nearest airlock
or left in the first convenient ditch. Mercenary
Anaconda pilots who prove themselves over
a series of intense encounters, however, earn
the informal right to incorporate a snake
into their livery and Maya-tags, and demand
considerable compensation thereafter.
Determined to earn — and even more impor-
tantly spend — their outsized paycheques,
“Snake-Js” fight on through odds that would
rout less-motivated or saner pilots.

ATTRIBUTES
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
10 10 8 10 7 7 11

FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Combat +1 1 Movement +2 1 Social +1 —
Fortitude +1 — Senses +2 1 Technical +1 1

DEFENCES
Firewall 7 Resolve 11 Vigour 8
Security 3 Morale 1 Armour 0
ATTACKS
• Spitfire: Range L, 1+7§ damage, Burst 3, 1H, Spread 2,
Unsubtle
• Knife: Melee, 1+3§, 1H, Concealed 1, Non‑Hackable,
Subtle 2, Thrown
GEAR: Crashsuit, Stims, Powered Multitool
SPECIAL ABILITIES
• J-Moves: For each Momentum or Heat spent when making
an Agility-based test, the Snake-J gains two d20s instead
of one.
• Motivated: For 1 Heat, the Snake-J gains +2 Morale Soak
until the end of combat.

TOTAL PROTECTION 9
MERCENARIES
NEMESIS APPEARANCE him from easy prey to looming predator.
TAIGO GROTTE After making a few brutal examples of
The Brazilian Grotte usually hunches to his former tormentors, he first joined
ATTRIBUTES appear significantly shorter than his 190 and soon led a set of similarly wealthy
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL cm tall, with a tan-lined face beneath a and disaffected students, stealing
11 9 13 11 12 7 7
mane of dense curls. A stubby stim-cig- vehicles to joyride and party in the
arette circuits between his chapped lips relatively unmonitored jungle. Though
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE and burn-scarred hands. Grotte usually not particularly interested in the
Combat +3 3 Movement +2 1 Social +2 — wears XO Suit boots and a creased outdoors, illicit bonfire parties became an
Fortitude +2 — Senses +1 1 Technical +3 2 archaic suit and tie clearly meant for obsession. When his parents attempted
someone much broader than his gaunt to ground him after being caught at yet
DEFENCES frame. In his TAG or when sure he’s unob- another unlicensed rager, he stabbed
Firewall 15 Resolve 9 Vigour 15 served, he strips to crimson polyclime both in their sleep and set the family’s
Security 1 Morale 3 Armour 0 trunks, revealing an elaborate, but clearly home on fire. Caught within hours, he
ATTACKS incomplete pattern, of self-inflicted scars was sentenced to a Neoterran juvenile
• Stun Asp: Melee, 1+7§ damage, 1H, Concealed 2, and brands. detention centre for the remainder of
Knockdown, Stun, Subtle 2 his teens.
CUSTOMISED TAG ARMAMENT ROLEPLAYING
• Heavy Grenade Launcher: Range M, 2+5§ damage, A model prisoner, he earned placement
Burst 1, Unbalanced, Indiscriminate (Close), Improvised 1, • In Public: Deferential to the point in a work-release technical programme
Munition, Speculative Fire of being obsequious, he affects a repairing outdated vehicles, his shady
• 2x Fire Heavy Pistols: Range R/C, 2+5§ damage, Burst broad (fake) Martian accent and is connections and skills only grew in
1, Unbalanced, Improvised 1, Incendiary 3, Unforgiving 1, complimentary about expensive items prison, and most peers assumed he’d
Terrifying 1, Vicious 1 and physical appearance. Grotte has join a Submondo crew on “graduation”
GEAR: 6 Reloads of Fire ammunition, 6 Parts, breaking clear distaste for visible cybernetics from custody. But one day, he was tasked
& entering kit, fake ID 2, 6 one-use puraza sprayers, repair or biografts, “There’s nothing like a with restoring a totalled XPR-1 and
kit, rented truck, shielded shipping-Pod, XO Suit classic.” fell in love. When released, he found
SPECIAL ABILITIES • In Control: During missions, his posture Adarga’s Rodeleros, an armoured assault
• Acelerador: Can convert a Reload of Fire ammunition straightens, face exposes shifting PMC willing to gamble on an ex-con
into a Fire Charge, Fire Grenade, or Fire Mine with moods and twitches, and his voice tech. Six years of service later, the unit
Improvised 1 as a Standard Action. Tests to analyse
grows harsh and clipped, especially was destroyed by the Ikari Company
forensic evidence in zones where one detonates are at
+1 difficulty.
with a pistol in hand. When observing in a Helicon Belt turf war, down to the
• Frente de Fogo: On a successful attack with the fire, in place of snarls and leers and last soldier.
Incendiary quality, Grotte can spend 2 Heat to double the grins and disgust, his face goes
inflicted Burning condition’s duration. slack, fixated. Only Hexahedron analysts know that
• Fumaça: For 3 Heat, all zones within Long Range of • In his TAG: Taigo is cautious, often during the final stages of the battle,
Grotte containing a fire are obscured as if struck by a observing for hours before making a Grotte hijacked one of the Rodeleros’s
Smoke 3 weapon. Observation tests or attacks into or move, opening with HGL then closes XPR-1s after brutally murdering his
out of those zones — though not within them — are at rapidly to attack with pistols in the fellow techs, then started a fire to
+3 difficulty. This penalty decreases by 1 after 3 and 6 confusion. He enjoys knocking down eradicate forensic evidence of his crime.
rounds, down to +1, until the fire is extinguished.
opposition with a charge then igniting Reports are spotty in the decade since.
them while they’re down. If victorious, Using a shielded shipping container
he salvages in XO Suit and brands his large enough to conceal his stolen
skin later with found metal or bone. mount, in the only-partial guise of a
down-on-his-luck trader in grey-market
BACKGROUND materiel, Grotte now preys on isolated
Submondo and mercenary teams. He
Born on Paradiso’s frontier to triggers conflicts by sniping at both sides
PanOceanian colonial directors, Grotte’s of a tense region, then striking while they
early years were a roil of constant are distracted, stealing anything valuable
displacement, and emotional and physical he can, and leaving only ash and burnt
abuse first by his parents then his peers, corpses in his wake.
until adolescent growth spurts turned

10 Chapter 1
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

Formerly mounts for Haqqislam’s prestig- ELITE

BOKBÖCEGĞI TAG ious Maghariba Guard, a bare minimum
ENCLOSED, GROUND, SINGLE-SEAT, WALKER
of Artefaktech XPR-1 Bokböceği (beetle ELIF’S SCARABS SCRUB
ATTRIBUTES in Turkish) were upgraded into XPR-5
Mercenary rejects and wannabes willing to
Scale Speed Brawn Akreps, and the remainder were dumped
take on any risk for a shot at a TAG, including
2 2 16 (+1) into grey and secondary markets to
the reckless command of Warmonger Elif
recoup project costs.
DETAILS Yavuz, the pilots of Elif’s Scarabs are a run-
ning joke among professionals. Nicknamed
Max. Passengers Impact While they lack Akreps’ optics, claws,
scrubs, an insult they proudly claim for their
1 2+7§ (Knockdown) and articulated tail mount, Bokböceğis’
own, the unit’s size varies depending on how
Hard Points six-legged redundancy, respectable
bloody a failure their most recent mission
anti-ballistic defence, and troop-trans-
Chassis 1, Comms 0 (ECM 1), External 0 (Running Boards) was and how well Yavuz has managed to
port capacity makes them the ideal
DEFENCES scrape up another round of suckers to fill her
TAG for private military companies on a
seemingly endless supply of battered XPR-1s.
Structure 14 Firewall 9 tight budget.
Armour 8 BTS 5 Historically, Yavuz subcontracted with
Though outdated and significantly louder
AXIAL WEAPONRY: bargain-basement mercenary companies
than modern HMGs, the Bokböceği’s axi-
• Noisy HMG: Range L, 2+5§ damage, Burst 3, Unwieldy, Spread without TAGs, providing troop transport and
ally mounted CineticS Luntarsug Heavy
1, Unsubtle 3 fire support in and out of battle zones. These
Machine Gun is its best feature as far as
SECONDARY WEAPONS: companies’ tactical managers would signif-
motor pool mechanics are concerned.
• 2x Heavy Pistols: Range R/C, 2+4§ damage, Burst 1, icantly underestimate the number of troops
The TAG is essentially built around the
Unbalanced, Piercing 2, Unforgiving 1, Vicious 1 required to ensure a low bid. Eager for work
weapon and designed to minimise its
and an endless optimist, Yavuz rarely pushed
SPECIAL ABILITIES: recoil and barrel heating, allowing for
back, leading to a series of brutal losses. As
• Axial Mount: If Prone and Braced, a Swift Action Momentum surprisingly accurate sustained fire and
their reputation degraded, they’ve taken on
spend to make a second HMG attack against a Medium range easy access for repair and maintenance.
increasingly unethical gigs, to the point that
target costs only one Momentum. More modern TauruSW Clava heavy
they’re functionally Submondo ancillaries
• Braces: External running boards can hold up to four passengers, pistols, mounted on stubby armour-
with active warrants in PanOceanian and
and the pilot can take Pilot (D1) Guard Reactions against ranged shrouded arms beneath its chin, are
Yujingyu territory.
attacks that target them. even more accessible, but jam in humid
• Clamber: Can ignore difficult or hazardous terrain X with a Pilot environments unless regularly cleaned.
ATTRIBUTES
(D(X-1)) test.
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
9 9 10 8 9 11 7

FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Combat +2 — Movement +1 1 Social +3 —
Fortitude +1 — Senses +2 — Technical +2 —

DEFENCES
Firewall 9 Resolve 7 Vigour 10
Security — Morale — Armour 1
ATTACKS
• Large-bore Heavy Pistol: Range R/C, 2+5§ damage,
Burst 1, Unbalanced, Unforgiving, Vicious 1
• Folding Knife: Melee, 1+4§, 1H, Concealed 2,
Non‑Hackable, Subtle 2, Unforgiving 1
GEAR: Patchwork uniforms, 2 different Reloads of Heavy
Ammo (Restriction 1 or 2 only)
SPECIAL ABILITIES
• Manual Receiver: For 2 Heat, the scrub can fire a single
Reload of Heavy Ammo from their Bokböceği’s Noisy HMG
at +2 complication range. If a complication is generated,
the TAG immediately takes a Fault, disabling the HMG.
• Muzzleload: The scrub can fire a single Reload of Heavy
Ammo from their large-bore pistol at +3 complication
range, destroying the pistol unless 1 Heat is spent.

TOTAL PROTECTION 11
NOMADS
NEMESIS APPEARANCE
LAGARTA
Always wearing an ordinary suit of
ATTRIBUTES Gecko Squad light combat armour and
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL ranging in height between 165 and 210
10 10 10 10 10 10 10 cm, the Lagartas’ sole differentiating
characteristics are the use of curving
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE Teseum axe-blades beneath their TAGs’
Combat +3 2 Movement +3 2 Social — — Combi Rifles’ barrels and pairs of similarly
Fortitude +3 2 Senses — — Technical +3 2 bladed assault pistols. All move with
practiced grace in combat, are utterly
DEFENCES
heedless of pain or injury, and rely on
Firewall 13 Resolve 13 Vigour 13
Cybermask disguises to avoid capture.
Security 2 Morale 1 Armour 2 considerably beyond Dawn, and the time
TAG ARMAMENT ROLEPLAYING
• Chopper Combi Rifles (x2): Range C/M, 1+7§ damage,
Burst 2, 2H, Expert 1, MULTI Light Mod, Vicious 1 AND • To Targets: Direct, forceful, almost
Melee, 2+7§ damage, Anti-Materiel 2, Piercing 4, Spread always silent besides the single
2, Vicious 2
phrase, “Por el pueblo,” For the People.
ATTACKS
They kill only their target if possible,
• Axe-sault Pistols (x2): Range L, 1+7§ damage, Burst
though guards and others who
2, 1H, Concealed 2, Vicious 1 AND Melee, 1+7§ damage,
Piercing 4, Parry 2, Spread 1, Vicious 2
interfere are often maimed.
• Neural Hacking Device Plus: CLAW-2, SWORD-1, • In Public Statements: Revolutionary
SHIELD-2, GADGET-3, IC-2, Cybermask, Sucker Punch, White and anti-authoritarian phrasing, they
Noise upgrades, +2§ bonus damage provide explicit details on what
GEAR: Fast Download Port, Light Combat Armour + Vac
wrongdoing their attack is retaliation
Suit, Pain Filters, and no Cube for within minutes of the assassination
to the nearest media representatives.
SPECIAL ABILITIES
• Anonimato: Tests to see through Lagarta’s Cybermask • In their TAG: Insanely patient, they
holographic disguises are Difficulty 3, or Difficulty 2 often wait for days or weeks at a
within Close range. time inside a shielded bulkhead or
• Devoción: For each Momentum or Heat spent when landscaping until their target comes
making any test, the Squaddie gains two d20s instead of within reach. Lagartas use ranged
one but takes 1§ of damage. weaponry to eliminate escorts, larger
• Solidaridad: Once per session for 3 Heat, any individual Combi Rifle blades to shuck the target
in a scene can be revealed as Lagarta in disguise, or from any vehicles or buildings they
any sufficiently large vehicle, bulkhead, or piece of take cover in, then eject to personally
landscaping as Lagarta in their disguised Gecko TAG.
split the target’s skill, remove their
Cube, and destroy it.
BACKGROUND
Based on gait and kinemetric analysis,
this role is clearly shared between a
small collective of individuals on a
rotating basis. Most serve for years, even
decades, though a handful only appeared
once. They use standard Gecko Squad
voicebox software to disguise their
identities, but for some reason only speak
or transmit in Spanish, leading to the
Bureau Aegis Psi Unit designation Lagarta,
Spanish for a female lizard. Ariadnan
12 Chapter 1
ties are suspected, as the earliest direct
actions by the collective occurred on
Dawn late in the Commercial Conflicts
against hypercorporate representatives
attempting to seize Dawn’s resources.
Additionally, the quantity and quality of
the Teseum used in its axe-blades would
have been nigh-impossible to acquire
without Ariadnan cooperation and
expertise.
In the almost two decades since,
Lagarta’s interests broadened
between assassinations significantly
increased, though hypercorporate
representatives remained their primary
targets. The Leesa Initiative, a hypercorp-
funded taskforce of bounty hunters and
PMCs meant to track down and punish
the collective, lasted only months before
a series of embarrassing and costly
scandals from leaks to the press and O-12
investigators in Lagarta’s name forced its
closure. A handful of taskforce members
still pursue the case independently.
To avoid similar scandals, most
hypercorporations now treat the
collective’s actions as the cost of doing
business, divest and elide responsibility
when a subsidiary is targeted, and
quietly maintain a bounty among
their Logantos and contacts for leads
leading to Lagarta’s capture. The NMF
claims these actions have nothing to do
with their operations or policies, and
publically consider it a false-flag attempt
to besmirch the Gecko Squad’s reputation.
Privately, however, most Nomads take
pride in Lagarta, and many have claimed
to have assisted them — those who
actually do keep their mouths shut.
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

ELITE
GECKO TAG SPECIAL ABILITIES:
ENCLOSED, GROUND, HANDS, SINGLE-SEAT, WALKER
• Open Sourced: Nomad technicians, anyone GECKO SQUADDIE
ATTRIBUTES with Arachne access, or who has Education
Like most Corregidor-based NMF troops,
Focus of 3 or more can upgrade or repair the
Scale Speed Brawn Gecko Squad pilots are expected to take a
TAG at -1 difficulty and ½ time required. If
1 2 15 (+1) variety of roles above and beyond piloting
purchased from non-Nomad sources, the Gecko
has BTS 3 instead of 6. within a single operation and are usually
DETAILS
drawn from the ranks of meteor heads and
• ZG-Jets: Ignores penalties imposed by zero-g
Max. Passengers Impact
conditions. other contract team specialists to ensure sure
1 2+6§ (Knockdown) footing and unshakeable confidence in zero-g,
Hard Points The Jurisdictional Command of practical technical experience under pressure,
Chassis 1, Comms 1 (ECM 1), External 1, Internal 1, Motive 1, Weapons 0 Corregidor saw something indispensable and proven loyalty to their mothership. The
in the lightly armoured GK-5 Gecko, Squaddie’s expertise is further augmented
DEFENCES
an abandoned and obsolete line of with sporadic training in quantronic
Structure 16 Firewall 10
reconnaissance TAGs, namely that counter-security and intrusion techniques,
Armour 5 BTS 3/6 they were cheap and readily available. acting and interrogation resistance, emer-
MOUNTED WEAPONS: Taking advantage of bulk pricing, they gency medical training, forward observer
• Oversized Combi Rifle: Range C/M, 1+6§ damage, Burst 2, purchased the entire available inventory telemetrics, and other potentially-useful
Unwieldy, Expert 1, MULTI Light Mod, Vicious 2 of GK-5s through dozens of seemingly operational skills.
unrelated intermediaries in a matter of
• Oversized Chain-Colt: Range C, 1+5§ damage, Burst 1, 2H,
Concealed 1, Torrent, Vicious 2 minutes, before interest could be traced When not serving in NMF operations, they
back to Corregidor or prices rose in are often embedded as guardians alongside
• Panzerfaust: Range L, 2+5§ damage, Burst 1, 2H, Munition, response to the sudden demand. their former peers’ work teams, their Geckos
Piercing 2, Spread 1, Unsubtle, Vicious 2 concealed in innocuous crates nearby in case
SECONDARY WEAPONS: Lighter than most TAGs but still a of trouble. While there are far too many work
• 2x Heavy Pistols: Range R/C, 2+4§ damage, Burst 1, juggernaut compared to heavy infantry, teams to protect against managerial abuse
Unbalanced, Piercing 2, Unforgiving 1, Vicious 1 the Gecko now enjoys a resurgence in and exploitation simultaneously, the possi-
SPECIAL ABILITIES: popularity thanks to Praxis’ endless bility a Gecko might emerge from seemingly
• Lock-Lag: Due to a still-rudimentary targeting system, Swift stream of iterations on the design. nowhere to give an overwhelming demon-
Action Momentum spends to make a second attack with the Those innovations are further fuelled stration of force is a potent deterrent. This
TAG cost three Momentum. by Squaddies’ continual and vociferous service is profoundly appreciated by meteor
feedback – jokes claim improvements’ heads, though they’re wise enough to conceal
performance is even more a matter of their gratitude for when “their” Squaddie is
survival for designers than the Gecko no longer under cover. Few Squaddies lack for
Squadron’s pilots. company or entertainment during Krugs.

ATTRIBUTES
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
10 9 8 10 9 7 10

FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Combat +1 1 Movement +2 1 Social +1 1
Fortitude +1 1 Senses — — Technical +2 1

DEFENCES
Firewall 9 Resolve 10 Vigour 8
Security 2 Morale 1 Armour —
ATTACKS
• Bladed Assault Pistol: Range L, 1+5§ damage, Burst 2,
1H, Vicious 1 AND Melee, 1+4§ damage, Non-Hackable
Vicious 1
GEAR: Light Combat Armour + Vac Suit + Biomonitor,
Medikit, Powered Multitool
SPECIAL ABILITIES
• At Home in the Black: For each Momentum or Heat spent
when making a Discipline, Interplanetary, or Resistance
test, they gain two d20s instead of one.
• Solidarity: Once per scene, for 3 Heat, any Corregidoran
can be revealed as an undercover Squaddie, their Gecko
concealed in a container at Long range.

TOTAL PROTECTION 13
NOMADS
NEMESIS APPEARANCE BACKGROUND
MAITA “KAMILI” OLONGA
Twenty-five-year-old Maita Olonga Born to a Corregidorian couple made
ATTRIBUTES doesn’t fit the grizzled Squaddie stere- wealthy off the back of a successful
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL otype. She’s a curvy 168 cm, with black network of Zero-G parts franchises,
11 14 8 14 8 7 8 hair kept in an intricate reverse braid. She Olonga was built to be an Olympian,
dresses simply in athleisure and magnetic literally. While the modern games
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE tabi socks, her sole ornamentation a forbid augmentation of any kind, there
Combat +5 2 Movement +2 1 Social +1 -— bio-luminescent wedding band tattoo. are no restrictions on in-vitro genetic
Fortitude +1 — Senses +5 2 Technical +1 — But there are subtle hints of her remarka- engineering, and her parents spent a
ble talents. Pale grey eyes seem to take in considerable percentage of their fortune
DEFENCES
everything at once, dilating and focusing to ensure she’d have every chance to
Firewall 9 Resolve 9 Vigour 9
at uncanny speed, and while she’s not represent the Nomad Nation as an
Security 2 Morale 1 Armour 4 particularly expressive with her hands, athlete. Much of her childhood was spent
TAG ARMAMENT they are always preternaturally steady. exploring which event suited her best,
• FGA SM Spezial AP HMG: Range L, 2+5§ damage, Burst and by her late teens she was a leading
2, Unwieldy, Piercing 2, Salvo 2 (Grievous, Knockdown), ROLEPLAYING candidate for the Nomad Nation’s 80m
Unforgiving 2, replaces HMG Rifle 4 x 360° Zero-G team in the 64 NC
ATTACKS • Reserved: Maita is friendly if a bit Olympic Games.
• Detached AP HMG: As above, loses Unforgiving 2 unless guarded, more comfortable listening
TAG- or suit-mounted
than speaking unless it’s a topic The endless practice and preparation
• AP Dirk: Melee, 1+4§, 1H, Piercing 2, Subtle 2, Thrown,
she knows very well like Earth, the wore on her, but slipping away to
Unforgiving 2
Olympics, off-roading, and her husband low gravity parkour in Corregidor’s
GEAR: Personalised Iguana Suit, 6 Reloads of AP Ammo, Henryk. She is slightly embarrassed main docking ring was her only real
signal flares
when Iguanas treat her with deference. rebellion until she met Henryk Berríos.
SPECIAL ABILITIES • Professional: Olonga is confident, The youngest child of a meteor head
• Kataa: The first time Olonga leaves her TAG in a combat attentive, and direct, offers suggestions polycule newly arrived on Lullaby Station,
scene, she recovers one Wound, one Metanoia, one
that other Squaddies treat as orders, the orbital habitat where she and her
Breach, and all lost Vigour, Resolve, and Firewall. Each
and calls out targets and ranges in peers practiced, Henryk had already
time she kills an opponent she heals 2§ mental
precise NMF jargon. She refers to lived on dozens of habitats by their first
damage but takes 1§ mental damage each time she or
an ally takes a Wound.
dropped targets as kamili, meaning chance encounter on a slideway. Their
• Kupigwa Mara Mbili: For 2 Heat, Olonga can make two complete in Swahili. passionate infatuation flourished into an
separate Burst 2 AP HMG attacks against two different • In her TAG: She is surefooted, unbreakable bond over the next several
targets with a single Standard Action; she must be particularly in zero-g, vastly prefers years, despite their parents’ strident
Braced to do so, and the benefits of any prior Exploit fighting at Long or even Extreme objections. Yearning for adventure
Action apply only to the first target, but no additional range, Braces + Exploits using her among the stars and lives on their own
Heat is required for the necessary Reloads. TAG’s extended tail for additional terms, they eloped, signing up as StarCo
• Personalised Iguana Suit: Olonga can control, enter, stability and precision, and makes auxiliaries.
exit, or eject from her TAG in a custom suit of Heavy Called Shots whenever possible.
Combat Armour with Exoskeleton 2. She has +2 Morale
Olonga’s remarkable marksmanship
while wearing it and can detach and mount her Iguana’s
AP HMG on the armour’s unique shoulder-socket as a
soon led to recruitment by the Iguana
Standard Action. Squadron, which she eagerly accepted
• Kuzingatia: Thanks to years of practice, and her TAG’s — if it included a TAG-tech position for
uniquely extensible tail, Olonga can combine a Brace Berríos. A strange fit at first, her aim’s
and an Exploit Action into one Standard Action, and once earned Maita a near-mythical reputation
Braced treats targets 3 or 4 zones away as Long range in the squadron, but she turns down
for HMG attacks. promotions of any kind. As she puts it,
“Shooting is best.”

14 Chapter 1
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

IGUANA TAG SPECIAL ABILITIES:
ENCLOSED, GROUND, HANDS, SINGLE-SEAT,
• Iguana Suit: The pilot can control, enter,
WALKER
exit, or eject from the TAG in an included
ATTRIBUTES specialised suit of Heavy Combat Armour
with Exoskeleton 1.
Scale Speed Brawn
• Lock-Lag: Due to a still-rudimentary
1 2 16 (+1)
targeting system, Swift Action Momentum
DETAILS spends to make a second attack with the TAG
Max. Passengers Impact cost 3 Momentum.
1 2+7§ (Knockdown) • ZG-Jets: Ignores penalties imposed by
zero-g conditions.
Hard Points
Chassis 1, Comms 0 (ECM 1, Repeater), Internal 0 (Evac System),
An old but reliable TAG, the IG-7 Iguana
Motive 1
was easy to repair even before it went
DEFENCES through Bakunian optimisation and
Structure 16 Firewall 10 the addition of an ejection system
Armour 6 BTS 6 linked to an inner suit of Heavy Combat
Armour. This armour’s servo-reinforced
MOUNTED WEAPONS:
joints allow the ejected pilot to easily
• HMG: Range L, 2+5§ damage, Burst 3, Unwieldy, Spread remove and carry the fallen Iguana’s
1, Unsubtle
main weapon — a PraxiTech Geistesblitz
• Heavy Flamethrower: Range C, 2+5§ damage, Burst 1, HMG — and continue their assault from a
2H, Incendiary 3, Munition, Terrifying 2, Torrent new angle. To take maximum advantage
SPECIAL ABILITIES: of the TAGs’ possibilities, NMF Iguana
squads emphasise physical and mental
• Closed Source: Nomad technicians, or anyone with Tech
Focus of 4 or more may upgrade or repaire the TAG at -1 training, stoking an aggressive spirit
difficulty and ½ time required repair. If purchased from non- alongside the expected technical and
Nomad sources, the Gecko has BTS 3 instead of 6. ballistics skills. This training and tenacity
are essential for levelling the playing
field against the technologically superior
adversaries they usually face.
ELITE
IGUANA SQUADDIE
Where the Gecko Squadron draws on
Corregidor’s vast diaspora of zero-g workers,
Iguana pilots usually come from the mother-
ship’s other, equally well-advertised specialty,
mercenary killers. By prioritising candidates
experienced with Heavy Combat Armour or
heavy weaponry, and ideally both, NMF train-
ers can focus on teaching TAG piloting skills,
confident the trainee’s already ingrained
skills and instincts will be sufficient should
they eject mid-combat.
Almost continually deployed as fire support
and assault forces, either for NMF operations
or carefully vetted mercenary contracts, the
Iguana Squadron’s culture prioritises physical
fitness and mental toughness, and an aggres-
sive, even masochistic, tolerance for pain.
They take great pride in surprising opponents
who mistake disabling their TAGs for the end
of the fight — they’re often deadlier on foot
than mounted.
ATTRIBUTES
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
9 9 10 9 9 7 10
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Combat +2 1 Movement +1 +1 Social — —
Fortitude +2 1 Senses +1 — Technical +2 1

DEFENCES
Firewall 9 Resolve 9 Vigour 10
Security 2 Morale 1 Armour 4

ATTACKS
• Detached TAG HMG: Range L, 2+6§ damage, Burst 3,
Unwieldy, Spread 1, Unforgiving 1, Unsubtle
• Boot Knife: Melee, 1+4§, 1H, Non-Hackable, Subtle 1,
Thrown, Vicious 1
GEAR: Personalised Iguana Suit, 6 Reloads of Standard
Ammo, painkillers
SPECIAL ABILITIES
• Personalised Iguana Suit: The Squaddie can control, enter,
exit, or eject from their Iguana in a custom suit of Heavy
Combat Armour with Exoskeleton 1. They have +2 Morale
while wearing it and can detach and mount an Iguana’s
HMG or other Unwieldy weapon on this armour’s shoulder-
socket with a Tech (D1) test, adding Unforgiving 1 to that
weapon while mounted.
• Desplegado: When they eject or exit their TAG in combat,
Squaddies recover all lost Stress (Vigour, Resolve, Firewall),
though not Wounds, Metanoias, or Breaches.

TOTAL PROTECTION 15
NOMADS
NEMESIS APPEARANCE
JULES "MADRASSI" MORGOON
Jules Morgoon is a towering 210 cm,
ATTRIBUTES with dark skin and bare head covered in
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL Teseum-tipped obsidian scales. He has
14 8 12 11 8 10 7
augmented claws and gecko pads on
broad hands and feet and a thick prehen-
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE sile tail and is usually clad in only a pair
Combat +3 3 Movement +3 3 Social +1 —- of colourful plaid shorts to show off his
Fortitude +3 1 Senses +1 1 Technical +1 — densely muscled physique. Morgoon cuts
an imposing figure at first, but is a charm-
DEFENCES ing conversationalist, once one adjusts to
Firewall 9 Resolve 10 Vigour 15 sharpened teeth and multi-lidded eyes.
Security 2 Morale 1 Armour 4 act, claim he’s served since the Corporate
UPGRADED LOUNGE-LIZARD SUIT ROLEPLAYING
• Modified Vac Suit with BTS 4, 3 Oxygen Loads, 3 Reloads,
and 3 Parts • Charming: Jules varies his volume
LIZZY (HIS LIZARD TAG) to suit his audience, from booming
• 8 Armour Soak, BTS 8, Loadout Alpha (MULTI HMG + HGL) storytelling to a soft whisper, and is
ATTACKS omnivorously flirtatious and curious.
• Implanted Komodo (Viral) Heavy Pistol: Range R/C, He is completely uninterested in
2+6§ damage, Burst 1, Unbalanced, Biotech, Grievous, talking about work or war, or his past
Unforgiving 1, Toxic 2, Vicious 1
beyond a few practiced anecdotes.
• Teseum-Laced Claws: 1+6§ damage, Piercing 4, Subtle
• Eccentric: Morgoon refers to his TAG
1, Vicious 1
Lizzy and his Spotbot Spitz as if they
• Spitz: A SpotBot with +2 Armour Soak and its flash pulse
are sentient, references Hindi, Finnish,
replaced with a Nanopulser: Range C, 1+5§ damage, 1H,
Biotech, Subtle 3, Torrent, Vicious 2 or Arabic proverbs without explanation,
drums his claws or adheres to nearby
GEAR: AR eye implants with MSV 2, Cosmetic
surfaces when lost in thought, and
Augmentation 3, gecko pads, subdermal grafts, Super-Jump
rarely carries anything.
SPECIAL ABILITIES
• In Lizzy: He is stealthy, takes point
• Hardbodies: Morgoon, Spitz, and Lizzy have +2 Armour
Soak (noted above) but lose 1 Armour Soak each time
and Guards allies from incoming fire.
they take a Wound or Fault (to a minimum of 0). Morgoon uses Spitz to help detect and
• Mojo Risin’: For 3 Heat as a Minor Action, Morgoon can flank opposition, carries a wide variety
swap all of Lizzy’s loaded ammo for different Human of Reloads and switches between
Sphere ammo types, any Standard and any Special ammo them to surprise opponents, yet is
into her MULTI HMG, and any Heavy Grenade into her completely unafraid of fighting on foot.
HGL.
BACKGROUND
Morgoon cultivates a tangle of mutually
contradictory theories about his origins,
age, and even former nationality,
deliberately dropping one hint or another
to partisans of a particular narrative, only
to add an impossible detail a few months
later. He’s especially fond of differing
explanations for his nickname’s origins.
In one, Madrassi indicates he was a
denizen of Chennai under its archaic
colonial title of Madras centuries ago, and
a partisan in border conflicts between the
newly formed Yu Jing and PanOceania’s
territories on Earth, which he describes
16 Chapter 1
in remarkable, if implausible, detail. No,
it should be just “madras”, a kind of cloth
from the same region, in the stylish
plaids he’s so fond of, given to him by
less-fashionable peers. Of course not!
It’s a misunderstood pronunciation of
Madrassa, an old Arabic term for school,
dating back to days as a bookish youth
on Bourak. And so on. One seemingly
genuine clue is a tendency to lapse into
antiquated Finnish when he’s inebriated.
Veteran Lizards, who may be in on the
Crises, and he speaks of lost Squaddies
with a familiarity and a seriousness
that rarely enters his other tales. When
those same vets claim to remember him
before his evolution into his current
form, they disagree considerably about
the larval Morgoon’s origins, personality,
or appearance. But they all agree that
he’s eccentric even for Bakunian, isn’t
affiliated with any Black Lab they’ve
heard of, and is an absolute demon
in a fight.
Despite avoiding conversations about
his work, Morgoon is clearly obsessed
with it. Besides a bare-bones living
quarters and special nutrition for his
biografts, all of his considerable earnings
go towards new augmentations, repairing
and enhancing Lizzy, and maintaining a
veritable library of munitions to ensure
the element of surprise in combat. He
takes long leaves of absence for surgeries,
brining Lizzy, Spitz, and his few other
belongings with him, returning months
or years later. Thanks to his potency in
the field, his commanders take these
walkabouts in stride. He always returns
even more combat ready, his form another
incremental step towards an unspoken
draconic ideal.
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

ELITE
LIZARD TAG SPECIAL ABILITIES:
ENCLOSED, GROUND, HANDS, SINGLE-SEAT,
• Leisure Suite: Personalised smart-material LIZARD SQUADDIE
WALKER
cushioning, environmental mods, and aerosolised
ATTRIBUTES stimulants, muscle relaxants, and euphorics provide Intimately entwined with whatever Black
+3 Morale Soak. Lab was responsible for their mount’s
Scale Speed Brawn
• Wetwerks: With GM permission, one or more idiosyncratic blend of engineered refactoring
2 2 17 (+2)
hardpoints can be replaced with a TAG-scale Biograft and bio-mechanical enhancements — and
DETAILS or Silk augmentation. This work can only be done often skilled tinkerers in their own right —
Max. Passengers Impact by Black Lab technicians, and the augmentation Bakunin’s Lizard Squad pilots are as unique,
installation has +2 base cast and +2 Tariff. political, and strange as any other product of
1 3+7§ (Knockdown Vicious 1)
their mothership. Whenever possible, a Black
Hard Points
Lab draws from its own ranks to fill the role,
Chassis 1, Comms 1 (ECM 1), External 1, Internal 1, Motive 1 selecting not only for fast-twitch reflexes and
DEFENCES steady aim, but an ideological viewpoint and
Structure 17 Firewall 11 The NMF Lizard Squad’s iconic mounts were aesthetic in congruence with the Lab’s. The
Armour 6 BTS 7 once obsolete PanOceanian Reptile Series resulting diversity of skillsets and approaches
heavy reconnaissance TAGs, with below-av- is an invaluable asset.
MOUNTED WEAPONRY: erage armour and chassis reinforcement, a
• Proprietary MULTI HMG: Range L, 2+5§ damage, Burst built-in FGA MLN Panzerfaust, and one of two The Lizard Squad is a subculture unto itself,
3, Unwieldy, Medium MULTI, MULTI Heavy Mod, Spread 1, stock loadouts of integrated weaponry. with standards around equipment and aug-
Vicious 1 mentations tangential to the rest of the NMF.
LOADOUT ALPHA: In the hands of Praxis’s Black Labs, however, Regardless of other weaponry, for example,
• + Heavy Grenade Launcher: Range M, 3+5§ damage, unused spaces throughout the chassis, each has a specific model of SMG implanted
Burst 1, Unbalanced, Munition, Speculative Fire + Grenade modern miniaturisation techniques, and in a secretive ceremony and then removed
qualities seemingly unrelated components sourced when they leave the unit, and instead of the
LOADOUT BRAVO: from throughout the Human Sphere evolved combat armour worn by their peers, each
• + Heavy Flamethrower: Range C, 2+5§ damage, Burst 1, into a near-unrecognisable new model — the wears a lounge-lizard vac suit loaded with
2H, Incendiary 3, Munition, Terrifying 2, Torrent Lizard. Brimming with trade secrets, including equipment and weaponry even when off duty,
SPECIAL ABILITIES: offset-layered polyceramic-compound plate to ensure combat-readiness.
• Black Secrets: When in conflict with a TAG modified by armour, bio-mimetic musculature, hyper-ki-
the Black Labs to any degree, that enemy TAG loses 3 BTS netic actuators, and a quietly stolen and ATTRIBUTES
and adds +3 complication range to its Acrobatics, Hacking, refactored ballistic system, they are even kept AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
and Observation tests. from trusted outsiders. 11 10 7 10 10 8 7

FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Combat +1 1 Movement +2 1 Social +1 —
Fortitude +1 — Senses +1 1 Technical +2 1

DEFENCES
Firewall 10 Resolve 7 Vigour 9
Security 3 Morale 1 Armour —
NMF LOUNGE-LIZARD SUIT
• Modified Vac Suit with BTS 2, 2 Oxygen Loads, 2 Reloads,
and 2 Parts
ATTACKS:
• Implanted Skink SMG: Range C, 1+6§ damage, Burst 2,
Unbalanced, Aug, Expert 1, Neural, NFB, Spread 1, Subtle 1
• 2x Boot Knife: Melee, 1+3§ damage, 1H, Concealed 1,
Non Hackable, Subtle 2, Thrown, Unforgiving 1
SPECIAL ABILITIES
• Scaled Up: Squaddies often take on augmentations
mimicking their mount, and for X Heat, both they and their
TAG can reveal an appropriately sized Biograft or Silk
augmentation with Restriction X, already installed.

TOTAL PROTECTION 17
PANOCEANIA
NEMESIS APPEARANCE enmeshed with the city’s Submondo
VICTOR “VIC” COROWA element, helping smuggle cargo, brawling,
A broad-shouldered 171 cm, Vic Corowa and earning money enough to live
ATTRIBUTES has a sailor’s deep tan, corded muscles, safely on his own. Since he had a clean
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL and calloused hands. With both crude record, a friend of a friend endorsed him
11 9 11 12 9 9 8
prison tattoos at his temples and wrists for Compass ship pilot training, and at
and the carefully balanced stance of only sixteen, his criminal and hypercorp
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE someone who’s spent years at sea, the careers began in earnest.
Combat +3 2 Movement +3 2 Social +1 1 32-year-old Naval Chasseurs’ Captain
Fortitude +4 1 Senses +1 - Technical +1 1 of Sea and War never seems entirely Fortunately, he transferred to Dawn
comfortable in uniform, or anywhere before his increasingly reckless peers
DEFENCES outside his remote piloting pod for that could land him in prison. As a marine
Firewall 13 Resolve 12 Vigour 15 matter. He is soft-spoken and polite with transporter for Compass shipments in
Security 3 Morale 2 Armour 1 strangers, but an air of tension permeates and out of Mat’, he befriended Irmandinho
(CRABBOT) BARSUK’S UPGRADES his movements, as if a brawl might break smugglers eager for a man on the inside
• Extra Gear: Breaking & entering kit, chameleonwear out at any moment. and started making real money. It lasted
coating, climbing plus almost two years before the Stavka
• Teseum Claw-Shears: Melee, 1+3§ damage, 1H, ROLEPLAYING uncovered them. As a galactic scapegoat,
Piercing 4, Vicious 2 he received a harsh fifteen-year sentence
• Ignores penalties imposed by pressure, even at • With Naval Chasseurs: Vic is at to hard labour, and an endless supply
extraordinary depths, and aquatic difficult terrain up to ease and familiar, though clearly in of Ariadnan convicts were eager to take
its controller’s Pilot Focus. command and caustic if challenged. their world’s humiliations out on him.
SPECIAL ABILITIES He doesn’t inject himself into
• Common Special Abilities: Fast Recovery (Resolve 2) conversation unless steering it At the end of the Saranyu Frontier
• Capitão: If another Naval Chasseur or their TAG is within toward a specific topic and has an Incidents, however, he was repatriated
Long range of Vic or his TAG, his Fast Recovery and
encyclopaedic knowledge of unit slang and released for time served. Profoundly
Morale Soak double their values.
and members’ histories. grateful for his rescue, he joined the
• Guerreiro: When attacking in or from an aquatic or
otherwise water-filled zone, with or without surprise, • With Anyone Else: Corowa is on edge, military and served as first a Fusilier, and
Vic’s first attack in combat has the Terrifying 3 quality. His direct, formal, and careful about then a Squalo pilot from the Varuna’s
melee attacks, in or out of a TAG, have the Grievous and hierarchies and authority, trying to Mechanised Cavalry after an ALEPH-
Vicious 2 qualities. strictly address whoever he thinks is guided review uncovered his piloting
• Treta Figovina: Vic has access to SaboT Reloads fireable in charge. skills. Finally, impossibly, Corowa earned a
with his TAG MULTI HMG’s secondary mode. It is always • In his TAG: He sets up ambushes and trial membership in the Naval Chasseurs.
loaded with AP and SaboT ammunition. attacks from the water whenever Now, years of zealous work later, he’s
• Zamochit: For 1 Heat, Vic can ignore one condition possible, opening with SaboT or AP earned the respect of his peers and the
imposed by a Wound Effect, or reduce the penalty
rounds at the most hardened target trust of his superiors. He still maintains
inflicted by the Cripple Wound Effect by one step for one
and focusing on them until downed. contacts among the few friends he
hour. For 3 Heat, he can ignore all difficulty penalties
imposed by Wound Effects on his body or Fault Effects on While he attempts to keep his distance, made in Rodina’s prisons, but he’s proud
his TAG for 3+3§ minutes. Vic is outright feral in close combat. of his position as a soldier, a pilot, and
especially as a Naval Chasseur. When the
BACKGROUND last Naval Chasseur cohort retired, he was
suddenly placed in command, and he is
Born in Varuna’s coastal city of Crystal determined not to waste this opportunity,
Cove to an abusive cargo-train mechanic anchors aweigh.
and alcoholic algae harvester, Corowa
spent as much time as possible far from
home, wandering the piers and dreaming
of a better life. Off-the-books work was
his salvation.

When a Compass Transportation

courier didn’t feel like making a delivery
but wanted to protect their reliability
score, they’d hand him a flashbill and
off he’d go in their stead. Soon he was

18 Chapter 1
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

Characteristically high-tech Moto. ELITE

CUTTER TAG tronica weapons for ocean dominance,
ENCLOSED, GROUND, HANDS, REMOTE PRESENCE,
SINGLE-SEAT, SUBMERSIBLE, WALKER, Cutters are designed for stealth both NAVAL CHASSEUR
WATERCRAFT above and below the waves, despite
Varuna’s Naval Chasseurs use Cutter TAGs as
their massive depth-resistant construc-
ATTRIBUTES spearheads for both deep-sea and amphib-
tion. In addition to T/O Camo sheathing
Scale Speed Brawn ious covert operations: infiltrator insertion,
and internal system sound-suppression,
2 2 17 (+2) punitive actions, perimeter enforcement,
passive filtration-layers disguise the
interdictions, and so on. Beyond strong
DETAILS TAG’s radioactive and E/M profile, effec-
piloting skills, Naval Chasseurs are selected
Max. Passengers Impact tively shielding it from sensor detection.
for an intuitive mastery of combat in a 3D
1 3+7§ (Knockdown) environment. Most have served at least one
A CineticS Lunan MULTI HMG is
Hard Points tour of duty in the PanOceanian Armada,
a Cutter’s sole weaponry besides
Comms 0 (ECM 1), External 0 (T/O Camouflage) spent a stint as merchant ship crew, or were
their fists, so they are best in coastal
born and raised in or on Varuna’s waters.
DEFENCES engagements where their amphibious
Structure 16 Firewall 10
manoeuvrability lets them strike from
The unit is tight-knit and familial, with a
surprising angles at Long range. On
Armour 8 BTS 6 dense cant drawn from their diverse travels
land their exaggerated swimmer’s
MOUNTED WEAPONS: and shared in-jokes, allowing for rapid
build can appear ungainly, but at sea
MULTI HMG: Range L, 2+5§ damage, Burst 3, Unwieldy, and secure communication even on open
attenuated wings at shoulders and
Medium MULTI, MULTI Heavy Mod, Spread 1, Unsubtle channels. Cohorts last a decade or more,
ankles unfurl to steer them in smooth
training and retiring as a group, building trust
SPECIAL ABILITIES: sweeping arcs. Powered by the aquajet
and confidence in their own skills and one
Run Silent: When the Cutter is underwater, Observation that comprises most of their torso’s bulk,
another with shared R&R, long practice, and
tests to detect it are at +1 difficulty, so long as it makes only they reveal a deadly streamlined grace.
an even longer series of victories. This focus
Careful Piloting actions.
on piloting mastery means Naval Chasseurs
Run Deep: Ignores penalties imposed by pressure, even at often rely on patched-in experts to complete
extraordinary depths, and aquatic difficult terrain up to its
complex field objectives in place of their
controller’s Pilot Focus when underwater.
own technical or medical skills once they’ve
eliminated any opposing forces.

ATTRIBUTES
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
10 9 8 13 8 8 7

FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Combat +2 1 Movement +3 2 Social +1 —
Fortitude +1 — Senses +1 — Technical +1 —

DEFENCES
Firewall 8 Resolve 7 Vigour 8
Security 2 Morale 1 Armour —
COMMON CRABBOT UPGRADE
• Extra Gear: chameleonwear coating
• Ignores penalties imposed by pressure, even at
extraordinary depths, and aquatic difficult terrain up to its
controller’s Pilot Focus.
SPECIAL ABILITIES
• Common Special Abilities: Fast Recovery (Resolve 2)
• Crewmates: Gain Fast Recovery (Resolve +1) for each
Naval Chasseur-piloted TAG within Long range, to a
maximum of 4 in each case. When they speak in cant,
attempts to decipher it or understand their Imply actions
are at +3 difficulty.
• From The Deep: When the Naval Chasseur or a fireteam
they are a part of wins a surprise face-to-face test and is
attacking in or from an aquatic or otherwise water-filled
zone, the Naval Chasseur’s first attack has the Terrifying 3
quality.

TOTAL PROTECTION 19
PANOCEANIA
NEMESIS APPEARANCE BACKGROUND
DAMINI “YAZHI” WAGH
A rangy 183 cm, every inch of Yazhi’s skin The youngest Dragão in the unit’s history,
ATTRIBUTES is covered in intricate endlessly shifting Yazhi’s parents were killed by StateEmpire
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL layers of tattoos depicting animal fur, forces when she was only a toddler. In
9 12 8 12 12 (+1) 9 8
feathers, or hides from animals native to the chaos of the NeoColonial Wars, their
Acontecimento or Earth’s Indian subcon- shuttle fleeing Paradiso was mistaken
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE tinent. A public AR feed adds elaborate for a military vessel and was shredded
Combat +3 1 Movement +3 1 Social +2 1 holographic projections animated as if by orbital pickets. Fortunately left behind
Fortitude +2 1 Senses +1 1 Technical +3 1 blowing in an invisible breeze. Damini on Acontecimento with her grandmother
is young for a Dragão, only twenty-three, during their vacation, Yazhi escaped her
DEFENCES and her hair long and braided away parents’ fates but was inconsolable for
Firewall 16 Resolve 12 Vigour 10 from retro TAG socket implants. Her sole years, despite counsellors and her family’s
Security 2 Morale 2 Armour — jewellery is a small synthetic-ruby bindi best attempts. Brilliant, withdrawn,
UNIQUE TAG ARMAMENT between her eyes, emblematic of her rebellious, and prone to violent outbursts,
• 2DA Magazine upgrade (see p.99) + Nanoswarm HRMC: Bengali ancestry and Hindu faith. her nānī soon restricted her to taking
Range L, 2+10§ damage, Burst 2/1, Mounted, Light MULTI, classes at home, only adding to her
Spread 2, Unsubtle 2 ROLEPLAYING isolation.
o AP+Nano Mode (Primary): Area (Close), Nanotech,
Piercing 2, Toxic 2 • Showy: Wagh prefers to be barefoot Maya let her experiment,
o 2DA Mode (Secondary): Anti-Materiel 2, Frangible, and wears display fabric singlets or unconstrained by familial critique and
Vicious 2 choli to accentuate her tattoos. She expectations. In hyper-violent TAG
(CRABBOT) KAKRAR’S UPGRADES
has the continually distracted air and simulations and hackathons, intelligence
• Extra Gear: 4 Fire Reloads (max capacity), deployable
meme-laden vocabulary of a Maya and aggression weren’t problems but
repeater, Inured to Heat
• 2x IPMT Micro-Flamethrowers (replaces Flash Pulse): obsessive, deliberately languid body instead valorised, even a way to make
Range R/C, 1+7§ damage, Burst 2, 1H, Incendiary 2, language, but fidgets when frustrated. friends. Inspired by the fierce mythical
Munition, Terrifying 2, Torrent • Dedicated: Her tattoos, AR feed, and creatures she saw in temple decorations,
Maya are deactivated when at worship their blending of powerful animals’ traits
AUGMENTATIONS: Cosmetic Augmentation or on duty. Damini is serious and into a seamless whole, she built a new
2 (animated holo-tattoos & public AR feed), gecko pads, intensely focused and impatient with identity around them — Yazhi. Paying
remote presence gear, neural hacking socket for “ENA”, a distractions or disrespect. for the augmentations she dreamed of
custom Hacking Device (CLAW-2, SWORD-2, SHIELD-1, • In Her TAG: She keeps up a bantering required devoted study, and she ripped
GADGET-2, IC-1) + 4§ bonus damage stream of tactical chatter highlighting through first basic and then advanced
threats and targets for allies, takes technical and engineering coursework,
SPECIAL ABILITIES point, attacks enemies immediately landing a position at the age of fifteen
• Common Special Abilities: Threatening 2 unless explicitly ordered not to, and in a Moto.tronica start-up incubator with
• Agressora: If Braced, her ranged TAG weapons gain only uses her flamethrower when her sufficient salary for legal emancipation.
Salvo 1 (Spread 1), and Heat spends for multiple Reloads NHRMC is depleted.
cost 1 less than usual (minimum 1 Heat spent). The 1st Paradiso Offensive changed
• Bandhan: Each turn Yazhi spends a Free Action everything. After a broadcast of the
maintaining her chatter, all allies in comms contact with
Paradiso Control Force’s desperate
her have +1 Morale Soak and recover 1 Resolve.
defence, she immediately quit her job and
• Fome: For 2 Heat on a successful attack that deals 2 or
more damage with her NHRMC’s primary mode, Yazhi can enlisted in the PMC. Like many others,
inflict a special Wound Effect that applies a +2 difficulty with the preferred MOS of TAG pilot.
penalty on all Agility- or Brawn-based actions. Unlike most, her test scores, aggression
• Maya Punarjanm: For 3 Heat as a Minor Action, Yazhi can index, and obvious talent placed her
recover all lost Firewall and remove up to three Breach in the Dragões, where she’s served
Effects. She then suffers +3 complication range on all with distinction ever since. Her former
Hacking and Pilot tests, including Reactions, for her next colleagues in the defence industry ensure
three turns. she’s first in line for prototype armaments,
as long as she Maya-posts the results.

20 Chapter 1
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

Acontecimento’s Dragões proudly live up ELITE

DRAGÃO TAG
ENCLOSED, GROUND, HANDS, REMOTE PRESENCE, to their name’s history, manoeuvring like
SINGLE-SEAT, WALKER dragoon cavalry to line up the perfect ACONTECIMENTO DRAGÃO
shot, then spewing devastating fire that
ATTRIBUTES Formally the Remote Presence Assault
would put a squadron of dragons to
Scale Speed Brawn Armoured Regiment, the Portuguese name
shame. After frustrating experiences with
2 2 17 (+2)
of the Dragões (singular Dragão) reflects
the Adv-Quantronics AOG-1B Bonefish’s
their Acontecimentan origin and role as
DETAILS undistinguished weapon loadout, they
Mechanised Calvary, and they proudly live up
consulted with Moto.tronica’s Engi.
Max. Passengers Impact to both. They are placed wherever resistance
Kinetics division, who delighted the unit
1 3+7§ (Knockdown) is fiercest to directly assault enemy lines
with an eponymous TAG configuration
Hard Points and open breaches, and their combat style is
and a weapons loadout ideal for their role.
fast and dramatic, saturating combat zones
Comms 0 (ECM 1)
with overwhelming concentrated fire. Most
The answer was a heavily altered Squalo
DEFENCES are similarly overwhelming in person, with
chassis bearing a cutting-edge Switech
Structure 16 Firewall 10 boisterous personalities and a tendency to
Gurges Hyper-rapid Magnetic Cannon
Armour 8 BTS 6 host legendary parties rife with substance
— the very first HMC lightweight enough
abuse on their rare furloughs.
MOUNTED WEAPONS: to be TAG-mountable, albeit only after
• IPMT Heavy Flamethrower: Range C, 2+5§ damage, extensive shoulder mount reinforcement
The unit struggled for years in outdated
Burst 1, Unbalanced, Incendiary 3, Munition, Terrifying 2, and painstaking gyroscopic compensator
and underpowered AOG-1B Bonefish TAGs,
Torrent, Unsubtle 2 readjustment. An unusual one-handed
but the advent of their eponymous model
• Hyper-Rapid Magnetic Cannon: Range L, 2+7§ damage, IPMT DragoBafo heavy flamethrower
made them a prized and highly competitive
Burst 3/1, Mounted, Light MULTI, Spread 2, Unsubtle 2 provided a broader firing arc in close-in
assignment for PanOceanian Military
combat, another signature touch of flame.
o AP+Shock Mode (Primary): Biotech, Grievous, Complex pilots. Aggression and gunnery
Piercing 2 A decade of near-continual combat has
skills are a priority and carefully honed by
demonstrated the efficacy of the design,
o DA Mode (Secondary): Anti-Materiel, Vicious 2 trainers and commanders, but as the Dragões’
and of the Dragões motto: Semper
SPECIAL ABILITIES: near-continual service on Paradiso’s front
Agressus or Always Attacking.
• Investida: When a Dragão inflicts a Fault or Wound lines demonstrates, sheer bloody-minded
with an HMC attack and its pilot makes a Swift Action determination is the key psychometric for
Momentum spend to make another HMC attack, they long-term service.
also gain the benefits of the Reroll Damage spend for no
additional Momentum. ATTRIBUTES
• Preparem! When Braced, the Dragão’s DA Mode Burst AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
rating increases to 2.
8 9 8 12 8 7 11

FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Combat +3 2 Movement +2 1 Social +1 —
Fortitude +2 — Senses — — Technical +1 —

DEFENCES
Firewall 8 Resolve 11 Vigour 8
Security 2 Morale 1 Armour —

COMMON CRABBOT UPGRADE

• 2 Fire Reloads (max capacity), Inured to Heat
• IPMT Micro-Flamethrower (replaces Flash Pulse): Range
R/C, 1+4§ damage, Burst 2, 1H, Incendiary 2, Munition,
Terrifying 2, Torrent
SPECIAL ABILITIES
• Common Special Abilities: Threatening 2
• Atirador: If Braced and for 3 Heat, their TAG’s HRMC DA
secondary mode’s Spread quality increases to 3 on its next
attack, and there is no additional Heat cost for the DA
Reloads needed to make each a full Burst 3 attack.
• Semper Aggressus: Each time Dragão inflicts the Burning
condition on a new opponent, they recover 1 Resolve, and
their HFT attacks gain another +1§ damage. This bonus
damage stacks but is lost if they miss an HFT attack

TOTAL PROTECTION 21
PANOCEANIA
NEMESIS APPEARANCE BACKGROUND
JAN “JJ” JARLSON
JJ’s tundra combatant Sigurðr Lhost Like most other Einherjar pilots, JJ was
ATTRIBUTES is a stocky 180cm, pale and freckled a seriously injured in the course of duty
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL with a cascade of curly copper hair, a and mastering a Jotum provided focus
12 10 11 12 11 8 7
trim beard, and corded with synthetic for his rehabilitation. But evidence about
muscle. Its integrated combat systems his past has been deliberately obfuscated
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE reveal themselves in subtle glances and by the Hexahedron in return for some
Combat +4 1 Movement +4 1 Social +1 — posture shifts in response to any nearby unknown service. His speech patterns
Fortitude +2 1 Senses +2 1 Technical +2 1 movement. He dresses simply, usually in and pop cultural references indicate he is
dense Svalarheiman armless tunics and Svalarheiman and served in the Blizzard
DEFENCES leggings beneath a shaggy silhouette-dis- Skirmishes as either special forces
Firewall 13 Resolve 9 Vigour 14 rupting cloak of his own design. or a Hexahedron agent. His medical
Security 4 Morale 2 Armour 2 records are sealed, but whatever injury
JJ’S SIGURÐR LHOST ROLEPLAYING he suffered must have either killed him
• +1 Brawn, +1 Coordination, -1 Willpower (included above) or otherwise rendered his birth body
• Ballistics Expert System 1, Close Combat Expert System 1 • Scholar: Jarlson is fascinated by and untenable. In any case, he seems to have
• Inured to Disease and Cold, MSV 2 casually references Scandinavian, integrated smoothly with his Sigurðr
Norse, and especially Svalarheiman Lhost, a Xperydes Biotechnology arctic
BIG J (HIS TAG) culture and religious practices. He’s variant of the Orlando combat model,
• Crabbot housing replaced with a single passenger life edgy and distracted before and after albeit with the usual impulsivity issues.
support module.
patrols and otherwise attentive, but JJ
• JJ can detach and wield its Panzerfaust or MULTI HMG +
stays at the edges of conversations. Introverted, solitary, and comfortable
HFT as a Standard Action.
• Scout: Jarlson sneaks close to targets spending weeks at a time unsupported
GEAR: Hunter’s cloak (Armour Soak 2, BTS 2, see below), after travelling to the general area even in Svalarheima’s harshest weather,
2 E/M2 Reloads, 2 Phobetor Reloads, 2 Eclipse Reloads, inside the chassis of his TAG, Big J, JJ spends the vast majority of his time on
remote presence gear, repair kit, respirator 2, survival kit observes for hours or days before solitary patrols in the planet’s frontier
attacking from concealment, first via regions. At Hexahedron’s request, many of
SPECIAL ABILITIES: Big J, then personally with a detached these patrols overlap with Svalarheima’s
Kappe: JJ’s hunter’s cloak counts as a kit for face-to-face weapon in the resulting confusion. more far-flung planetary datasphere
Stealth tests against targets at Medium range or farther in • In Stor J: JJ pilots from concealment infrastructure, either in areas contested
tundra or mountain terrain, granting 2 bonus Momentum.
nearby instead of from a remote by Yu Jing and PanOceania or remote
It immediately suffers a Fault and becomes useless
pod. He opens with Eclipse, EM/2, enough to be vulnerable to Nomad
for Stealth if struck by an attack with the Incendiary or
Nanotech qualities. or Phobetor rounds from his MULTI sabotage. Units, even PanOceanian units,
Jeger: When detected or hidden to a target, and either HMG’s secondary mode to isolate and that stray too close to Maya nodes vanish
Prone or Braced, JJ can take the Exploit Action as a Free panic targets and maximises burst without a trace often, circumstantially,
Action. If successful, in addition to the usual benefits, he when able. while JJ is out of comms contact.
can ignore 1 difficulty due to range on Ranged attacks
against them, and Observation tests to detect the source of His superiors are willing to look
the attack are at +1 difficulty. the other way, in part, because he’s
Rytter: JJ can connect or disconnect from Big J as a Minor remarkably effective at defending against
Action and perform Actions or Reactions with it or his
incursions. While all Einherjar pilots are
own body without penalty when within 5 zones of it.
comfortable with frontier manoeuvres,
Its eponymous LAI has ½ of his Attributes and Fields of
Expertise. ambush tactics, and night raids, JJ
Slynge: JJ can convert a Reload into an equivalent Grenade routinely eliminates entire Yu Jing units
with the Improvised 2 quality as a Minor Action. on his own, sometimes multiple times
in a single night. Currently restricted to
Svalarheima, it’s only a matter of time
before his duties set his saga’s next
stanza far from home.

22 Chapter 1
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

Jotums are colossal, heavily armoured ELITE

JOTUM TAG
ENCLOSED, GROUND, HANDS, REMOTE PRESENCE, TAGs honouring their appellative, a
ROUGH TERRAIN, WALKER variant of Old Norse’s Jötunn, the frost EINHERJAR PILOT
giants of Norse mythology. Each has
ATTRIBUTES In Norse mythology, the einherjar (Old Norse
an extensively reinforced structure,
Scale Speed Brawn thick multi-component armour, and a "single (or once) fighters") were warriors killed
2 2 18 (+2) high-wattage power plant that allows it in battle and brought to Valhalla by valkyries.
to bear all the extra weight. Its original PanOceania’s Military Complex similarly
DETAILS draws most Einherjar Jotum pilots from
Squalo chassis is almost unrecognisable
Impact beneath the layers of added protection. military or intelligence-affiliated pilots killed
3+7§ (Knockdown) Its bulk allows for a concealed— though in the course of duty.
Hard Points now well-known—single-shot antitank
weapon, leaving its hands free for close Training to control the massive behemoths
Chassis (Rebalanced Mass) 1, Comms 0 (ECM 1), External 1
combat or carrying its main weapon, provides much-needed distraction and focus
DEFENCES a battle-proven CineticS Lunan MULTI for their rehabilitation, beginning shortly
Structure 16 Firewall 10 HMG with an underslung Glöð Heavy after their Resurrection into a Clone Lhost in
Armour 10 BTS 8 Flamethrower parallel with frontier survival training.

MOUNTED WEAPONS: Participants have a remarkably low rate of

Originally built for and stationed on
• D.E.P: Range L, 2+5§ damage, Burst 1, 2H, Disposable, Resurrection Dysmorphic Disorder, and most
Svalarheima, they incorporate several
Munition, Piercing 2, Spread 1, Unsubtle, Vicious 2
key adaptations to inhospitable envi- not only pass, they serve for decades, forming
WIELDED WEAPONS: ronments: an extensible foot-broaden- lifelong friendships with their training cohort
• MULTI HMG: Range L, 2+5§ damage, Burst 3/1, Unwieldy, ing system for travel in snowy or soft and peers. Few outsiders truly understand
Medium MULTI, MULTI Heavy Mod, Spread 1, Unsubtle terrain, power system protection against their new lives and duties.
• + Heavy Flamethrower: Range C, 2+5§ damage, Burst 1, low temperatures and moisture, and a
2H, Incendiary 3, Munition, Terrifying 2, Torrent cutting-edge gyroscopic control system. ATTRIBUTES
SPECIAL ABILITIES: Known as Jīnshǔ Shān (金属山,“Moun- AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
tain of Metal”) to Yu Jingese troops, their 9 9 9 11 9 8 8
• Forearm Shields: +4 § Cover Soak against melee attacks confrontations with the Blue Wolveson
with two functioning arms, dropping to +2§ if one arm is the frozen plains of Svalarheima are FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
disabled, and none if both are disabled.
legendary. Combat +2 2 Movement +2 1 Social +1 —
• Giant: The Jotum’s unarmed strikes have the Knockdown
Fortitude +2 — Senses +1 — Technical +1 —
and Vicious 2 qualities, and tests to avoid being knocked
Prone by its attacks have +2 difficulty. DEFENCES
• Internal Mounting: Faults cannot disable the Panzerfaust Firewall 9 Resolve 8 Vigour 9
unless the Armour Soak for its torso is reduced to 0. Security 2 Morale 2 Armour —
Reloading it takes five minutes.
• Terrain Adaptation: When attempting a terrain test in COMMON CRABBOT UPGRADE
arctic, mountain, or swampy environments, the pilot can • Inured to Cold
reroll up to 3d20. • Can reroll up to 2d20 on arctic, mountain, or swampy
terrain tests.
• No Flash Pulse, but can mount its host’s Panzerfaust atop
its shell as a Standard Action if in the same zone. It must
drop Panzerfaust to use Claw-Shears.
SPECIAL ABILITIES
• Common Special Abilities: Supernatural Willpower 1
• Snøskred: For 2 Heat, an Einherjar can spend their entire
turn charging into an opponent at Medium or Long range
(as a forearm shieldbash melee attack). Each Effect rolled
on this attack increases the difficulty of the target’s
Acrobatics or Athletics test to avoid being knocked Prone
by 2 instead of 1. One Effect is generated automatically if
the target is Scale 1 or smaller.

TOTAL PROTECTION 23
PANOCEANIA
NEMESIS APPEARANCE During this formative exposure to his
FATHER-OFFICER LIKO SRI SAVANG faith’s foundations, the pilgrims were
A spry, if stooped, 195 cm, Father-Officer covertly assessed by representatives
ATTRIBUTES Liko moves with remarkable grace from each Order. During subsequent
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL and balance for a man of his age with studies in San Pietro, he was quietly
9 13 7 10 11 (+1) 10 (+1) 10
remnants of dark hair kept in a tonsure recruited by the Black Friars, and once
and a face with almost a century’s worth initiated, tasked with monitoring his
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE of wrinkles and laugh lines behind his peers. Initially troubled by his duty, he
Combat +3 3 Movement +2 2 Social +2 2 rimless reading glasses. He invariably focused on technical — and theoretically
Fortitude - - Senses +1 1 Technical +2 2 dresses in a simple priest’s habit, its less politically and theologically
original fibres worn down to a soft grey creative — students. But after uncovering
DEFENCES by long use, and a set of well-thumbed a TA sneaking profiles of graduates to a
Firewall 14 Resolve 10 Vigour 7 and rusted iron rosary beads. Tunguskan conglomerate his freshman
Security 4 Morale 6 Armour — year, and a Yu Jingese infiltrator his junior
(CRABBOT) KAKRAR’S UPGRADES ROLEPLAYING year, his zeal’s flickering flame grew to
• Extra Gear: White hacking device, deployable repeater, well-banked bonfire.
T/O camo • With Everyone: Father-Officer
• Single-Use Nanopulser (replaces Flash Pulse): Range C, Liko is wise and friendly in a After graduation he became a tactical
1+5§ damage, 1H, Biotech, Disposable, Subtle 3, Torrent, grandfatherly way, casually references monk, often carrying out the Inquisitions’
Vicious 2 Shakespeare and scripture verbatim, work in another Order’s guise while
and circles back to points he finds providing spiritual council and leading
GEAR: Cube 2.0, Implanted Neural White Hacking insufficiently addressed later in a the charge during combat. Many of his
Device, Fake ID 3 (non-Dominican Order Knight), Stealth
conversation instead of immediately technical contacts joined the Order of
Repeaters
confronting them. the Temple, and after their heresy was
• In His Quarters: He pretends to tinker uncovered, he spent the better part
SPECIAL ABILITIES
with a Cancer Crabbot or is seemingly of a decade capturing, interrogating,
• Common Special Abilities: Keen Senses (Sight),
enmeshed in a physical book designed and encouraging former Templars to
Quantronic Jump, Superhuman Intelligence 1,
Superhuman Personality 1, Threatening 3 to provoke his visitor’s interest, while testify. As a reward, he was promoted to
• Benedicere: Father Liko generates an actually writing or working in his Father-Officer and allowed to retire from
additional 4 Momentum on Command tests targeting private datasphere. active intelligence gathering, trained as
Catholic believers, and 2 Momentum against all others. • In His TAG: Savang leads from the a Seraph remote pilot as the programme
Allies within Long range have +2 Morale Soak and +2 centre, fires whatever weapon is began and his physique weakened, and
Resolve and the benefits of SHIELD-1 Exorcism and at optimal range, uses Cancer(s) granted a series of frontier posts, most
SHIELD-3 Zero Pain. to ambush or out-manoeuvre recently on Paradiso. Though he served
• Inimicus: Father Liko takes 3§ mental damage, opponents, and loves using SHIELD-3 with distinction in both Offensives, his
ignoring Morale Soak, any turn he is within Long range of Counterstrike Guard and Defence faith was shaken as repeated encounters
a sepsitor, fleeing if it inflicts a Metanoia.
Reactions against enemy hackers. with sepsitors forced him to put down his
• Sinoa: When piloting a Seraph TAG, he grants allied
own memetically infected troops. Eager
Remotes within Medium range one bonus Momentum on
all tests, not only Ballistics and Athletics, and can take a BACKGROUND to serve elsewhere, his latest role has
Standard Action or Reaction with a Cancer Crabbot each him once again posing as a member of
turn for free. The son of a Lao father who emigrated another Order.
• Theuaada: Once per scene, for 3 Heat if his Seraph TAG is from Shentang to Varuna after conversion
destroyed or disabled, Liko re-appears in a new Seraph 3 to Catholicism and an equally devout
turns later at Extreme range from any player characters Malay mother, Liko grew up surrounded
in the scene and behind allied troops if possible. by the prestigious Tescari Biogenetic
Research Centre’s technicians and
scholars. He dabbled in remote modding
and theatre but was drawn to faith over
academics. After finishing school early,
he immediately entered a pre-seminary
pilgrimage programme sponsored by the
Military Orders, touring and studying on
Earth and Neoterra.

24 Chapter 1
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

SERAPH TAG SPECIAL ABILITIES: ELITE

ENCLOSED, GROUND, HANDS, REMOTE PRESENCE,
SINGLE-SEAT, WALKER
• On Wings as Eagles: Seraphs can vault over SERAPH ORDER PILOT
obstacles up to twice their height without penalty,
ATTRIBUTES and grant -2 difficulty on tests to move through Like Father-Knights, more junior Order pilots
Scale Speed Brawn
difficult terrain. are trained as both military trooper and
2 2 16 (+2)
ordained priests, and similarly guard their
charges’ souls as fiercely as their bodies.
DETAILS Strong in their faith, Military Order Father- Many specialise in TAG combat, but all have
Max. Passengers Impact Officers fight without fear of death or yet to earn Knighthood. Order pilots’ time is
1 3+7§ (Knockdown) hesitation, resulting in severe attrition rates primarily devoted to cloistered prayer and
Hard Points until the creation of remote-operated Seraph learning their Order’s doctrine and military
TAGs, allowing them to lead on the frontlines techniques, honing their minds and fighting
Comms 0 (ECM 1), Motive 0 (Kinematika)
without needlessly risking their lives. spirits to a keen edge. Fighting remotely
DEFENCES Powerful back-mounted aero-jets and gliding in Seraph TAGs to ensure their zeal doesn’t
Structure 16 Firewall 10 wings allow them to soar over battlefield lead to premature martyrdom, and providing
Armour 7 BTS 6 terrain, enhancing their already angelic quantronic and spiritual support for their
humanoid form. allies, their unshakeable faith in the right-
MOUNTED WEAPONS:
eousness of every mission can justify literally
• Spitfire: Range M, 1+5§ damage, Burst 3, 2H, Spread 2,
Unsubtle Built-in coordination systems make Seraphs anything, from remarkable acts of service to
guardians and guides for allied remotes, just unimaginably heinous acts of violence.
• Nanopulser: Range C, 1+5§ damage, 1H, Biotech, Subtle as their pilot safeguards the souls of the
3, Torrent, Vicious 2
soldiers under their command. But they are ATTRIBUTES
• Seraph Greatsword: Melee, 3+7§ damage, Massive, Anti- formidably armed even on their own, with AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
Materiel 1, Spread 1, Unsubtle, Vicious 2 a chest plate Nanopulser, CineticS Bagyo-T 10 8 11 7 8 9 11
SPECIAL ABILITIES: Spitfire, and an iconic shoulder-sheathed
• Ardour: Designed as a tactical coordination nexus, Seraphs TAG-scale greatsword, its serrations filled FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
grant allied Remotes within Medium range one bonus with a superconducting gel for directed Combat +2 — Movement +2 — Social +2 1
Momentum to Ballistics and Athletics tests. blasts of ionized plasma on impact. Fortitude +1 — Senses +1 — Technical +2 1

DEFENCES
Firewall 8 Resolve 11 Vigour 11
Security 2 Morale 4 Armour —
COMMON CRABBOT UPGRADE
• If detached, can grant allied Remotes within Medium range
one bonus Momentum to Ballistics tests until its next turn as
a Standard Action.
• Single-Use Nanopulser (replaces Flash Pulse): Range C,
1+5§ damage, 1H, Biotech, Disposable, Subtle 3, Torrent,
Vicious 2
SPECIAL ABILITIES
• Deus Vult: If God wills it, best not to argue. The Order-
Sergeant generates an additional 2 Momentum on
Command tests but does not benefit from Morale Soak
against Psywar attacks by superiors or if disobeying orders.
• Pax Vobiscum: For 2 Heat, all Order-Sergeants in a scene
gain Focus 2 in Combat and Movement and Focus 1 in
Fortitude and Senses until the scene’s end.
• Shield of Faith: As an active participant, an Order-Sergeant
can spend 2 Heat to give forces under their command
+2 Morale Soak (to a maximum of 4) and grant them the
benefits of SHIELD-1 Exorcism and SHIELD-3 Zero Pain
for a scene.
• Sword of the Spirit: Unerring faith guides their blades.
Order-Sergeants can reroll up to 4§ of melee attack
damage but must accept the results. Each point of
Momentum spent to deal bonus damage adds 2 points of
damage instead of 1.

TOTAL PROTECTION 25
PANOCEANIA
NEMESIS APPEARANCE
MARIA CONCEIÇÃO GONÇALVES Maria’s disinterest in anything outside
Only 145 cm tall, with the restless energy her martial education was a continual
ATTRIBUTES of someone half her 63 years, Maria has source of conflict in the household
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL a wrestler’s cauliflowered ears, a boxer’s until finally, at only fifteen, she left
12 (+1) 8 10 11 9 9 10
flattened nose, and the poorly healed home for good. Barely eking a living
scars and still-dense musculature of an as an undercard fighter in Submondo-
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE underground Aristea! fighter. She wears run underground Aristea! events, she
Combat +4 3 Movement +3 2 Social +1 1 them like badges of office, along with a nevertheless performed well enough to
Fortitude +3 1 Senses +1 — Technical +1 — wedding ring of solid Teseum and fash- join a stable of itinerant fighters for a
ionable loose couture. tour of Human Edge. Her small frame
DEFENCES was an asset instead of a handicap in the
Firewall 10 Resolve 13 Vigour 13 ROLEPLAYING zero-g conflicts that predominated there,
Security 3 Morale 4 Armour — and she was soon battling in main events.
ST. SEBASTIAN (HER TAG)’S • Wealthy: Maria dresses and Over the course of her 20s, Maria earned
ARMAMENT accessorises fashionably and pays a solid record despite the occasional
• Starts with 2 Reloads each of AP and T2 ammo, and two close attention to her Maya halo. She knockout or severe injury.
Eclipse+ Grenades. name-drops when she needs to put
• Shrike AP Heavy Pistol: Range R/C, 2+4§ damage, someone in their place non-violently, A chance encounter in an Işıkev
Burst 1, Unbalanced, Expert 2, Piercing 2, Unforgiving 2, evaluates people carefully, and offers caravanserai bar changed her life. After
Vicious 1 (replaces AP Pistol) patronage to the worthy. seeing her comprehensively thrash a trio
• Warrior: She is deadly serious, though of drunken miners, then-Squad Leader
(CRABBOT) GARRA’S UPGRADES
still polite, with those she takes Marlon Cedeno suggested she try out
• Extra Gear: Breaking & entering kit, chameleonwear
seriously or in the context of her for the Squalo pilot training programme.
coating, climbing plus
military duties. Competitive, Maria Maria’s scores on the entrance exam
• Teseum Claw-Shears: Melee, 1+3§ damage, 1H,
Piercing 4, Vicious 2 thinks very firmly in terms of winners were remarkable, and within weeks, she
• D-Charge (destroys Garra): Charge, 2+6§ damage, and losers and is a sucker for a bet or was not only applying for PanOceanian
Anti-Materiel 2, Comms, Disposable, Piercing 3, Spread 1, a dare from those she trusts. citizenship but also a candidate trainee.
Unsubtle, Vicious 2 • In St. Sebastian (Her TAG): Maria Over the decades since, she’s done
attacks at range, laying down Nimbus everything possible to prove her mentor’s
SPECIAL ABILITIES grenades to block sightlines. Once initial impulse correct, rising through the
• Common Special Abilities: Superhuman Agility 1 battlefield positions stabilise, she has ranks to take his place as commander
• Apice Predatore: Thanks to eye-wateringly expensive allies provide covering fire for a charge of her own squad of Squalo TAGs. She
Teseum blades, when Maria drops St. Sebastian’s MULTI into all-out close combat with fists and married a Moto.tronica executive in
HMG + HGL and uses his Feeding Frenzy ability, her AP heavy pistol. her late 40s and hides to some degree
melee attacks gain Piercing 4 and Vicious 2 instead of 1 behind the trappings and mores of
and 1. BACKGROUND wealth, doting on her children and many
• Combinazione: For 1 Heat after making a successful
protégés. But it’s only behind the controls
melee or pistol attack, Maria can make a second attack at
Born on the peaceful planet of Concilium of a remote pod that she finally, truly,
-1 difficulty against either the same target or any other
target within Close range. She can use this ability three to a pair of gentle O-12 functionaries, feels at home.
times per turn. Maria was a tiny, energetic, and
• Custode: When an ally is the target of a ranged attack, aggressive child, utterly unmanageable
Maria can take a Guard reaction to fire a Nimbus+ until her parents found an appropriate
grenade into the ally’s zone for 2 Heat. If she wins, the outlet for her in martial arts. She spent
attack fails. If she fails, the ally still gains +2 Cover Soak. her nights training in boxing, judo, and
finally individual training in Brazilian jiu-
jitsu, her days earning whatever grades
were required to allow her to continue
training, and at her parents’ increasingly
strident insistence, every Sunday
morning at Mass.

26 Chapter 1
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

The second iteration of Moto.tronica’s ELITE

SQUALO TAG
ENCLOSED, GROUND, HANDS, REMOTE PRESENCE, Stingray TAG platform, Squalos or “shark”
SINGLE-SEAT, WALKER in Italian, retain the line’s pedigree PINNA DI SQUALO
of manoeuvrability, comprehensive
ATTRIBUTES As one of the older PanOceanian TAG units,
firepower, armoured durability, and
Scale Speed Brawn Squalo pilots have a variety of superstitions,
raw speed. Improvements include
2 3 17 (+2)
traditions, and even combat languages, which
cutting-edge countermeasures against
vary from squadron to squadron and largely
DETAILS guided weaponry, and — addressing
serve to keep outsiders at bay. Influenced
longstanding pilot complaints — refac-
Max. Passengers Impact by their TAGs’ designation, the 74th
tored finger actuators and reinforced
0 3+7§ (Knockdown) Squadron speak primarily in an Italian-based
knuckle guards and kneecaps.
Hard Points Mediterranean cant, referring to themselves
as Pinna di Squalo, the shark fins.
Chassis 1, Comms 0 (ECM 2), External 1 As with all other PanOceanian TAGs,
they are piloted from kilometres away
DEFENCES Even more than piloting expertise, they pri-
via purpose-built remote presence pods.
Structure 16 Firewall 10 oritise mastery in close quarters battles, and
Towering nearly two stories tall, their
Armour 8 BTS 6 each holds advanced ranks in urban warfare
lack of life support systems ensures a
techniques. Many have spent years as field
MOUNTED WEAPONS: lean humanoid silhouette, broken only
combatants before joining the Mechanised
• AP Heavy Pistol: Range R/C, 2+4§ damage, Burst 1, by a pair of transmission antennae
Unbalanced, Piercing 2, Unforgiving 1, Vicious 1 Cavalry. They tightly restrict their appearance
sweeping back from the head and a
by mutual agreement, reserving particular
• MULTI HMG: Range L, 2+5§ damage, Burst 3, Unwieldy, shoulder-mounted CineticS Lunan
accessories as another unit might use medals
Medium MULTI, MULTI Heavy Mod (HGL), Spread 1, Unsubtle MULTI HMG with a Switech Cadentem
or commendations. A trained observer
• + Heavy Grenade Launcher: Range M, 3+5§ damage, Heavy Grenade Launcher rack built
can assess a Pinna’s time in service, major
Burst 1, Unbalanced, Munition, Speculative Fire + Grenade into its stock. A TauruSW Marreta AP
deployments, and notable achievements with
qualities Heavy Pistol, mounted in the torso but
only a glance at their earrings and tattoos.
SPECIAL ABILITIES: detachable for an ambidextrous firing
arc, ensures armour-piercing firepower at
• Feeding Frenzy: With a Minor Action Tech (D1) test, the ATTRIBUTES
Squalo’s pilot can detach and drop its MULTI HMG + HGL for Close range.
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
greater manoeuvrability in close combat. Its unarmed strikes
gain Piercing 1 and Vicious 1 until the weapon system is 11 8 10 11 7 8 8
re-attached, and with Pilot Focus of 3 or more, the pilot
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
can take advantage of their Close Combat and Acrobatics
Talents with the TAG as well. Combat +3 2 Movement +2 1 Social +1 —
Fortitude +1 1 Senses — — Technical +1 —

DEFENCES
Firewall 8 Resolve 9 Vigour 11
Security 2 Morale 1 Armour —

COMMON CRABBOT UPGRADE

• Extra Gear: Deployable repeater
• The Crabbot’s Claw-Shears gain Vicious 1 and Unforgiving
1, and the Pinna di Squalo can take advantage of Close
Combat and Acrobatics Talents with it.
SPECIAL ABILITIES
• Common Special Abilities: Superhuman Agility 1
• Attaccabrighe: Have the Rigorous Training and Leverage
Athletics Talents, and the Martial Artist, Combat Specialist,
and Weapon Master Close Combat Talents.
• Compagni: Gain Fast Recovery (Resolve +1) for each Pinna
di Squalo-piloted TAG within Long range, to a maximum
of 3. When they speak in cant, attempts to decipher it or
understand their Imply actions are at +2 difficulty.

TOTAL PROTECTION 27
PANOCEANIA
NEMESIS APPEARANCE ancestry marked her as an untrustworthy
ALTHEA GUINTO outsider to PanOceanian and Yu Jingese
A sturdy 172 cm and olive skin tanned peers, and while she made a few friends,
ATTRIBUTES even darker by long days in the sun, her adolescence was an unhappy one.
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL Althea usually dresses in all-weather
11 13 9 12 8 8 9
long-sleeved shirts and pants in neutral When her father remarried and invited
tones with long, dark hair usually pulled her to finish her schooling back in San
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE back in a ponytail and always shod in Fernando de Dagopan, she jumped at the
Combat +3 2 Movement +4 1 Social +1 1 one of her many pairs of eroded boots. chance. After weeks of travel, however,
Fortitude +1 - Senses +4 1 Technical +1 1 She has elaborate traditional Filipino she arrived to find that he and much
tattoos covering her arms, shoulders, and of her extended family were in police
DEFENCES chest, but keeps them out of sight unless custody, members of an Eco-Aktion
Firewall 9 Resolve 10 Vigour 10 around friends. cell captured in an undercover bust
Security 3 Morale 2 Armour — while she was in transit. Granted early
TAG ARMAMENT ROLEPLAYING emancipation, she spent the next year
• 3 Antipersonnel Mines and 3 Barang (Oneiros + trying to avoid failing her classes, taking
Flarefiltered Chaff) Mine: Mine, 1H, 2+6§ damage, • In the Outdoors: Althea is relaxed but long treks into the reserve on weekends,
Biotech, Blinding, Comms, Disposable, Immobilising, unconsciously checks the ground for and breaks to read, think, experiment
Indiscriminate (Close), Nonlethal, Unsubtle, Stun, and (as tracks and the sky for pending weather. with entheogens, deciding what to
with Flarefiltered Chaff) allies are immune to its Blinding She steps carefully but quickly and do next. After graduation, these trips
and Stun qualities turns off her comlog unless essential, lengthened to weeks at a stretch, until, as
(CRABBOT) SLIPPY’S UPGRADES expecting the same of others. she puts it, “The answer just walked outta
• Extra Gear: Chameleonwear coating, climbing plus
• Indoors: She is affable and vulgar, the jungle.”
• Ignores difficult terrain in Jungle, Forest, and Urban
keeping her eye on any available
environments.
• No flash pulse, but can carry and plant its host’s windows, asking probing questions, Unbeknownst to Althea, her excursions
antipersonnel or barang mines and telling embarrassing stories of her repeatedly brought her to the edges
own. She becomes quiet, direct, and of Chasseur training exercises, and
GEAR: Cosmetic Augmentation 2, climbing kit,
powered multitool, survival kit serious when working or fighting. she became a mascot to trainees, who
• In Her TAG: Althea favours keeping competed to see how closely they
SPECIAL ABILITIES
a low profile and waiting for her could sneak to her campsites before
• Cut and Run: After a successful melee attack, Althea can
immediately Withdraw without paying Heat, leaving her oppoents to reveal themselves before she noticed them. After their own
target’s Reach without triggering any Retaliate Reactions striking hard with every weapon at graduation, the trainee cohort decided
and gaining +2§ Cover Soak until her next turn. her disposal. to give her a present, delivered “in
• Watch Your Step: Althea has the Environmental person” via Tikbalang. After her initial
Specialisation Talent for Jungle, Forest, and Urban BACKGROUND panic, Althea was relieved to have an
environments, and rolls +2d20 on Observation, Pilot, explanation for some of her more striking
Survival, and Stealth tests in those environments. Mines Like many Tikbalang pilots, Althea is hallucinations, exchanging contact info
she plants in those environments are at +2 difficulty to from Acontecimento’s San Fernando de with her stalkers/friends. It only took a
detect, and deal +2§ additional damage. Dagopan region. Her parents served for few in-person nights on the town, and a
many years as rangers in the area’s Forest few more in the jungle, to convince her
Reserve. As a toddler, her mother moved that a Chasseur’s life was for her. With
to Svalarheima, determined to escape the references from her mother and new
planet’s humid heat for cooler climes and friends, she entered the programme and
leaving her father behind. She grew up slowly earned her way into a remote pod.
in heavily fortified Odinheim, surrounded An autodidactic knack for moving through
by the heavy machinery of the city’s forests and jungles undisturbed has only
icebreakers, snow movers, TAG squadron, grown with time, and she regularly takes
and spacecraft continually arriving and point on manoeuvres.
returning to more interesting places. Her

28 Chapter 1
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

Like the eponymous mythical Filipino ELITE

TIKBALANG TAG
ENCLOSED, GROUND, HANDS, SINGLE-SEAT, half-man, half-horse, Tikbalang haunt
WALKER, REMOTE PRESENCE the jungle and ambush the unwary with ARMOURED CHASSEUR
overwhelming force, returning again and
ATTRIBUTES Acontecimento’s Armoured Chasseurs are
again if killed.
Scale Speed Brawn based in and primarily drawn from the San
1 2 15 (+2)
Fernando de Dagopan area, and exclusively
Lightweight, third-generation Stingray
pilot Tikbalang TAGs. They train at classified
DETAILS models adapted for combat in dense
locations deep within the nearby Forest
forest and jungle, they carry TAG-scale
Max. Passengers Impact Reserve, at the same Escape and Survival
Teseum-edged sundang blades for
1 3+6§ (Knockdown) Tactics Training Centre used to prepare
close-in work, Kaldera KHF-7 Heavy
Hard Points PanOceanian troops for the brutal jungles of
Flamethrowers to clear vegetation and
Paradiso, by ALEPH to train Special Situations
Chassis 0 (Climbing Plus), Comms 0 (ECM 1), External 0 bunched-up opposition, and durable
(Chameleonwear) Section operatives, and in exchange pro-
CineticS Tausug HMGs for rapid long-
grammes to be prepared for the Emerald Hell.
DEFENCES range fire.
Structure 16 Firewall 10 Armoured Chasseurs’ training blends survival
Designed for remote piloting, they are
Armour 6 BTS 6 and tracking coursework with its piloting and
more compact than many TAGs, since
gunnery regimen, ensuring real-world expe-
MOUNTED WEAPONS: they lack life support systems and
rience with the environments where they
• Antipersonnel Mine: Mine, 2+5§ damage, 1H, Comms, manual controls. They rely on mimetic
primarily operate. They enjoy fierce public
Disposable, Indiscriminate (Close), Spread 1, Terrifying 1, sheathing, sound-suppression, and
support. Local lobbyists and manufacturers
Unsubtle passive radiation filtration derived from
block Tikbalang sales to outsiders, enhancing
• HMG: Range L, 2+6§ damage, Burst 3, Unwieldy, Spread the same research that built the Cutter
their mystique. The unit’s expertise is
1, Unsubtle models’ more advanced concealment,
essential for combat on Paradiso, and after
as well as surface treatments to reduce
• Heavy Flamethrower: Range C, 2+5§ damage, Burst 1, brutal psychological attrition rates due to
friction from vegetation. Tikbalang
2H, Incendiary 3, Munition, Terrifying 2, Torrent near-constant deployments during the First
move swiftly and silently through dense
• Tikbalang Sundang: Melee, 1+5§ damage, 2H, Anti- Paradiso Offensive, nearly doubled in size
terrain to outflank opposition, sow havoc,
Materiel 1, Piercing 4, Spread 1, Vicious 2 over the last decade to accommodate the
and force breaks in enemy lines.
SPECIAL ABILITIES: war’s requirements.
• Mángangaso: The Tikbalang can ignore difficult terrain
up to its controller’s Pilot Focus in jungles, forests, or other ATTRIBUTES
environments with dense vegetation. AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
• Talibugso: The Tikbalang can carry up to six mines at a 10 11 8 12 7 7 8
time, and if the pilot has the Environmental Specialisation
Talent for the environment the TAG is in, Observation tests FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
to detect mines they place are at +1 difficulty. Combat +2 2 Movement +3 1 Social +1 —
Fortitude +1 — Senses +1 — Technical +1 —

DEFENCES
Firewall 7 Resolve 8 Vigour 8
Security 2 Morale 2 Armour —

COMMON CRABBOT UPGRADE

• Extra Gear: Chameleonwear coating, climbing plus
• No Flash Pulse, can carry and plant its host’s antipersonnel
mine.
SPECIAL ABILITIES
• Ambush: When completely hidden from all enemies, and
either Prone or Braced, Armoured Chasseurs can take the
Exploit Action as a Minor Action. If successful, Observation
tests to detect the source of their next attack are at +1
difficulty.
• Home Turf: Each Chasseur has an Environmental
Specialisation Talent in either Forest, Jungle, or Mountain
environments, or for 1 Heat, all three. They roll +1d20 on
Observation, Pilot, and Stealth tests in those environments.

TOTAL PROTECTION 29
PANOCEANIA
NEMESIS APPEARANCE
HANNA AL-TAWEEL
A plush 166 cm, Hanna dresses to
ATTRIBUTES accentuate her figure and fine-pored
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL features, enjoying the edge a distracting
11 12 7 11 11 10 8
outfit gives her in conversation. An avid
fan of Maya noir programming, she
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE affects a femme fatale personality in
Combat +3 2 Movement +3 1 Social +2 1 public. Like most femme Uhlans, she
Fortitude +1 – Senses +2 1 Technical +3 1 wears striking crimson lipstick, nails, and
rouge, and keeps her short shock of hair
DEFENCES permanently dyed bright red, only adding
Firewall 14 Resolve 11 Vigour 8 to the effect. She’s uncomfortable outside
Security 3 Morale 2 Armour — that role’s tropes and expectations and is
THEDA’S (HER TAG) ARMAMENT considerably less poised than she seems.
Feuerbach Rack’s Needle Burst mode is replaced with
MIRV Cluster Mode: Indiscriminate (Close), Spread 1, Salvo ROLEPLAYING
2 (Stun, Piercing), Vicious 1
• On the Prowl: Hanna is aggressively
RICK’S (CRABBOT) UPGRADES: flirtatious or coldly aloof but in truth
• Extra Gear: Chameleonwear coating, climbing plus more interested in friendships than
• Single-Use Nanopulser (replaces Flash Pulse): Range C,
romantic partners. She leans on the
1+5§ damage, 1H, Biotech, Disposable, Subtle 3, Torrent,
protocol and vocabulary of pop culture,
Vicious 2
noir, and attraction to gauge people’s
• Ignores difficult terrain in Plains, Urban, or Zero-G
environments. personalities and intentions.
• If detached, can grant allied Remotes within Long range • At work: Al-Taweel is much more
one bonus Momentum on Ballistics, Pilot, or Stealth tests relaxed and comfortable, especially
until its next turn as a Minor Action. with fellow femmes. She loves her job
and the rush of violence, teamwork,
SPECIAL ABILITIES and victory. Even a bad day at the
• Fatalna: Hanna can reroll up to 4§ of damage but controls of a TAG beats a straight job
must accept the results. any day of the week.
• Qasf: When using Rick’s Atak! Ability, Hanna can spend 3 • In Theda (Her TAG): She marks out
Heat (4 total Heat) to immediately grant every allied priority targets for allies and calls
Uhlan within Extreme range a simultaneous Fuerbach when to strike, synching her allies’
Rack attack on either the same zone she is attacking attacks over a broad area, then uses
or a zone adjacent to her attack. These attacks must her HMG on whatever enemy in
use Explosive Round mode but replace its Area (Close)
range is most damaged, tagging them
quality with Indiscriminate (Close) and add Piercing 1
for allies.
and Stun.
BACKGROUND
Born in Marsport to a nominally-
Haqqislamite Moroccan mechanic and an
atheist Polish diplomatic attaché, Hanna
grew up surrounded by commerce and
intrigue, punctuated with long rover trips
to camp beneath the stars while her
parents repaired remote infrastructure
and prayed or met with mysterious
strangers for even more mysterious
exchanges respectively. She bought her
first remote before she was 10 with
allowance earned for her silence, and
deeply immersed in Mars’s Underground
Circuit subculture, first as a fan, then
as an aspiring modder and pilot. She
was terrible. She was terrible for years.
She wrecked the few remotes that
survived her engineering brainstorms on
whatever underground racetracks she
could beg, borrow, or steal her way onto.
She rushed through school, doing the
minimum required to pass and spending
hours poring over obscure manuals and
half-fictitious Arachne parts catalogues,
trawling dataspheres for bargains, and
dreaming of her next sure thing.
Then puberty hit, and suddenly all
anyone cared about was what she looked
like, no matter how baggy her outfits
or how little she paid to hygiene or
manners. If anything, it made matters
worse. She went into seclusion, fixating
even more on her remotes but piloting
them remotely on the rare occasions
she raced and spending long hours
watching the old Maya programmes her
parents adored. Then the PanOceanian
Military Complex unilaterally attempted
to shut the Underground Circuit down.
Though impressed by the TAGs used
to gatecrash the races, she was furious,
and over her teens became a notorious
troll on pro-PMC forums. Exposure to
PanOceanian Maya culture was infectious,
however, particularly once she found
the huge subculture of similarly neon-
noir obsessed fans. After graduation
she moved to Neoterra to join her new
peers, and when they took the PMC
TAG proficiency exam, she went along
for the ride.
Shocked by recruiters’ vociferous
interest, Hanna signed up expecting to
end up a tech, but instead excelled and
was offered her choice of units after
boot camp and initial testing. As she tells
it, she liked the Uhlan’s aesthetic best.
After six years of service, she’s earned a
reputation as not only a fierce dresser, but
a vicious lead bombardier.

30 Chapter 1
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

Akin to the eponymous Polish unit, the ELITE

UHLAN TAG
ENCLOSED, GROUND, HANDS, SINGLE-SEAT, Uhlan regiment is lightly armoured
WALKER, REMOTE PRESENCE cavalry with a distinctive appearance, CLAUSEWITZ UHLAN
in the modern unit’s case, bright red
ATTRIBUTES Unlike their Tikbalang-piloting peers,
faceplates and trim that only shifts to
Scale Speed Brawn Clausewitz Uhlans turn to history instead of
low profile mode when camouflaged in
1 2 15 (+2)
mythology for their iconography, albeit with
the field. Like their Tikbalang siblings,
a modern twist. In place of sashes, lance pen-
DETAILS Uhlans are lightweight, remote-pres-
nons, and plumes, they decorate their TAGs
ence third-generation Stingray models
Max. Passengers Impact and themselves in shades of distinctive red:
but have significantly higher-quality
1 3+6§ (Knockdown) lipstick, rouge, and nails for the femmes, brow
thermo-optical camouflage sheathing
Hard Points and jawline tattoos and boots for the jocks,
to enable their primary role: stalking
and hair either dyed or braided with red for
Comms 0 (ECM 1), External 0 (T/O Camouflage) and ambushing enemy armoured vehi-
all. Encouraged to experiment provided they
cles, remotes, and TAGs.
DEFENCES stay within the aforementioned guidelines,
Structure 16 Firewall 10 Uhlans are a perennial inspiration for street
The Uhlan’s weapons loadout is simi-
Armour 6 BTS 6 culture and high fashion, useful for propa-
larly adapted for sudden anti-armour
ganda as well as combat.
MOUNTED WEAPONS: strikes. It wields a durable CineticS
• HMG: Range L, 2+6§ damage, Burst 3, Unwieldy, Spread Tausug as the Tikbalang does, but
What Armoured Chasseurs call real-world
1, Unsubtle replaces its sibling’s heavy flame-
practice, Uhlans disdain as grubbing around
• Feuerbach Rack: Range L, 2+4§ damage, Burst 2, thrower, mine capacity, and specialised
in the dirt, substituting continual gunnery
Unwieldy, Munition, Unsubtle, max 4 Reload capacity, close-in blade with a shoulder-mounted
practice and carefully monitored stealth
requires manual reloading Switech Liquefactor Feuerbach rack
exercises. Most of this practice is run by
o Needle Burst Mode: Piercing 2, Spread 1, Vicious 2 and a quantronic tracer-round system
the unit themselves during downtime. The
for brutal first-strike impact. The rack
o Explosive Round Mode: Area (Close), Spread 1 Vicious 1 harder they are on one another, after all,
only has a four Reload capacity but
SPECIAL ABILITIES: the less likely they are to embarrass the
can launch them in parallel (see Atak!
• Atak!: For 1 Momentum, the Uhlan can make two unit in the field. Hard partying during R&R
ability). Reloading it requires a Standard
simultaneous attacks with its Feuerbach rack, provided it is helps bleed off any resulting tension and
Action Tech (D1) test per Reload.
fully loaded and all four Reloads are expended between the reinforce morale.
two attacks. The attacks can be made in any mode.
• Quantronic Tracers: When an Uhlan inflicts a Fault with ATTRIBUTES
an HMG attack, the target is Marked and ranged attacks by AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
allied Uhlans (including the attacker) against the target 10 12 8 11 7 8 7
gain the Guided quality until the end of the Uhlan’s next
turn. FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Combat +3 1 Movement +2 2 Social +1 —
Fortitude +1 — Senses +1 — Technical — —

DEFENCES
Firewall 7 Resolve 8 Vigour 9
Security 2 Morale 2 Armour —

COMMON CRABBOT UPGRADE

• Extra Gear: Chameleonwear coating
• No Flash Pulse, can carry 1 of its host’s Reloads when it
detaches, then self-destructs later to detonate as a grenade
of the same type as that Reload.
SPECIAL ABILITIES
• Ambush: When hidden from a target and either Prone
or Braced, Ulhans can take the Exploit Action as a Minor
Action. If successful, they can reroll up to 4§ of damage
on their next attack on the target, but must accept the
results.
• Migotać: When making an attack with the Guided quality
against a Marked target, Uhlans can ignore any conditional
soak the target would normally benefit from without
needing to make an Analysis test.

TOTAL PROTECTION 31
YU JING
NEMESIS APPEARANCE
KHEM SHINAWATRA
A lean, almost-emaciated 160 cm, with
ATTRIBUTES long limbs, sloppy posture, and short
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL brushy hair swept back to expose her
implant sockets, Khem makes no effort
11 12 (+1) 13 (+1) 12 10 9 10
to conceal her many cybernetics’ surgical
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE scars and has obviously endured multiple
Combat +3 2 Movement +3 2 Social +2 — rounds of full-body and neural augmen-
Fortitude +3 1 Senses +1 1 Technical +1 1 tation far beyond the usual. Thai, and in
her late twenties, she’s been a Xuanwu
DEFENCES for twice the ordinary tour of duty,
Firewall 11 Resolve 13 Vigour 17 and it shows.
Security 3 Morale 4 Armour 3 not only eager for more, but mentoring
GEAR: Attribute Augmentation (Silk), Bioimmunity ROLEPLAYING
Organ, Implanted Neural Assault Hacking Device, Medium
Combat Armour, Nerve Inlays, Pain Filters, Respirator 3 • Acerbic: Khem doesn’t mince words or
spare feelings, asks incisive questions,
ATTACKS and shows less than zero respect for
• Armour-Integrated Heavy Flamethrower: Range C, rank, ethnic hierarchies, or non-military
2+9§ damage, Burst 1, 2H, Frangible, Incendiary 3, seniority.
Terrifying 2, Torrent • Poised: She’s self-assured, conserves
motion and emotion unless it’s time
SPECIAL ABILITIES to make a move or a point, and
• Common Special Abilities: Superhuman Awareness 1, shockingly precise and coordinated
Superhuman Brawn 1
when she wants to be.
• Dek Kaphrā: After a successful Exploit Action test against
• In Her TAG: Shinawatra focuses on
a target, all of Khem’s subsequent attacks against that
target gain Piercing 3 until she attacks a different target, maintaining cover, always Braces
moves from her position, she suffers a Wound, or her TAG before firing, and uses her Guījiă’s mass
suffers a Fault. and strength to collapse architecture
• Laojiàng: Khem is eliminated after suffering only three onto entrenched opponents.
Wounds and takes 1 mental and 1 quantronic damage
whenever her Guījiă suffers a Fault. Once per combat, BACKGROUND
for 3 Heat, she can triple the rating of any Cover Soak she
or her TAG is benefitting from until she moves from her Born on Shentang into a family of Atek
position or takes damage.
Sukhothai smugglers who were arrested
• Nerve Inlays: Invasive, full-body cyberware grants Khem
en masse when she was nine, Khem’s
her Superhuman abilities and is both necessary and
sufficient for the Guījiă’s 2-Momentum Neural Interface remarkable performance on a battery
bonus. It cannot be disabled by Breach Effects. of intake evaluations landed her in the
Xuanwu programme instead of foster
care, despite being two years younger
than the average trainee. With little to
lose and eager for a distraction from
the loss of her family, she threw herself
whole-heartedly into the programme,
becoming the first in her cohort to
graduate to active duty, just in time to
defend Yu Jing’s business interests in the
Dawn system during the Saranyu Frontier
Incidents.
Despite solid performance in the field,
her disdain for social niceties and her
superior’s egos led to being repeatedly
passed over for promotion. Willingness
to undergo rounds of additional, even
experimental, augmentation and the
long periods of rehabilitation required
afterward earned her a certain degree
of leeway, however, allowing her to
escape to a new post in Odinheim. Time
away from active duty also shielded
her from burnout, and as her cohort of
peers started to retire, she found herself
younger and especially non-Chinese
Xuanwu pilots.
Shipped to Paradiso just in time for
the Second Offensive, she earned her
own squad, albeit one composed of
politically questionable pilots, and forged
them into an effective unit. All but one
died in the failed defence of Xiongxiang.
Critically wounded and medevac’d to
safety, she spent four months in recovery.
With a team of other survivors, she
fended off Morat incursions against
the underground city for seven straight
months, until a sepsitor attack turned
her XO against the team. Two survived.
After a stint of administrative leave for
assaulting the intelligence officer who
concealed reports of Anathematics in
the area, she was recalled in time for the
Third Offensive, fighting at the Battle of
Chengling and later joining the defence
of Neiting:
So far, her new team has survived
without casualty, though heaven help any
paper-pusher that impedes her keeping
them that way.

32 Chapter 1
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

GUIJIAĂ TAG SPECIAL ABILITIES: ELITE

ENCLOSED, GROUND, HANDS, SINGLE-SEAT,
WALKER
• Super-Jump: Guījiă TAGs treat any distance XUANWU PILOT
fallen as one zone shorter when calculating
ATTRIBUTES damage. Additionally, they can also vault over Named for both the Black Tortoise of
Scale Speed Brawn
obstacles up to their own height without traditional Chinese astronomy, emblem of
penalty and reduce the difficulty of skill tests the north and winter, and the warrior deity
2 2 17 (+2) to move through difficult terrain by one step. of Taoist tradition, Guījiă pilots embody the
DETAILS • Turtle Stance: When Braced, gain +2§ StateEmpire’s unshakeable will. While their
Max. Passengers Impact Cover Soak, and any tests to avoid being TAGs are made from the best components
1 3+7§ (Knockdown)
knocked Prone are at -2 difficulty (minimum 0). available, the Xuanwu pilot’s tight integration
Hard Points with their machines is their true advantage.
Comms 0 (ECM 1, Neural Interface) A hulking titan equipped with equally
Each is carefully vetted for the will and
DEFENCES massive weaponry, a challenger to
youthful vigour to survive the elaborate
PanOceania’s Jotum, Gang Tie’s Guījiă is
Structure 16 Firewall 10 and invasive augmentation required to take
a soldier’s nightmare manifest in heavy
Armour 8 BTS 6 full advantage of their mounts and the raw
alloy. Truly monolithic, the “Armoured
intelligence for a comprehensive technical,
MOUNTED WEAPONS: Tortoise” laughs off small arms fire and
scientific, and medical education to provide
• AP Sword: Melee, 3+10§ damage, Unbalanced, Parry 2, packs enough power to level a city block
any expertise missions require. Survivors
Piercing 2, Vicious 1 should it be so inclined. Ironically des-
of training are rightfully proud of their
• Heavy Flamethrower: Range C, 2+5§ damage, Burst 1, ignated as advanced light war machines,
achievement and emotionally and neurolog-
2H, Incendiary 3, Munition, Terrifying 2, Torrent they are piloted by carefully vetted but
ically entwined with their TAGs. Many retire
• MULTI HMG: Range L, 2+5§ damage, Burst 3, Unwieldy, comparatively young trainees, whose
after less than a decade’s service with the
Medium MULTI, MULTI Heavy Mod, Spread 1, Unsubtle neuroplasticity allows for radically closer
StateEmpire’s gratitude, to lifelong medical
integration with the machine.
SPECIAL ABILITIES: treatment for their duties’ neurological strain
• Best of the Best: Yu Jing Guījiă pilots gain +3 Morale and full retirement benefits.
To that end, pilots receive extensive
Soak in their TAGs, but immediately suffer 3 Metanoia and 1
cognitive augmentations, top-of-the-line
Wound if it is destroyed. ATTRIBUTES
pilot goggles and datasuits, as well as
• Flawless Defence: The AP Sword is always available to comprehensive technical, scientific, and AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
parry unless destroyed, and the first Defence Reaction made 8 9 6 10 (+1) 11 8 10
medical education to ensure they can
to parry a melee attack each turn costs 0 Heat.
provide expertise should the mission
• Neural Interface: If the pilot has a neural augmentation, FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
require it. Those who successfully
they gain one bonus Momentum on all skill tests related to Combat +2 1 Movement +1 1 Social — —
complete training are rightfully proud
their roles as pilot and gunner, increasing to 2 Momentum Fortitude +1 1 Senses +1 1 Technical +2 1
with a Guījiă-specific Nerve Inlay augmentation. of their achievement, emotionally and
neurologically linked with their TAGs, DEFENCES
and ready for any task. Firewall 11 Resolve 10 Vigour 6
Security 3 Morale 1/3 Armour 1

ATTACKS
• 2x Armour-Integrated Light Flamethrowers: Range C, 1+7
§ damage, Burst 1, 1H, Frangible, Incendiary 3, Terrifying
2, Torrent
GEAR: Basic Medical Supplies, Implanted Locational
Beacon, Implanted Neural Hacking Device, Light Combat
Armour, Nerve Inlays, Powered Multitool, Respirator 2
SPECIAL ABILITIES
• Common Special Abilities: Superhuman Coordination 1
• Nerve Inlays: This invasive, full-body cyberware grants
the Xuanwu pilot their Superhuman Coordination 1 and is
both necessary and sufficient for the Guījiă’s 2 Momentum
Neural Interface bonus. It cannot be disabled by Breach
Effects.
• Shéntóng: Xuanwu pilots are eliminated after suffering
only a single Wound or two Metanoia but can suffer up
to 4 Breaches before their network shuts down. They
take 2§ mental and quantronic damage whenever their
Guījiă suffers a Fault.

TOTAL PROTECTION 33
YU JING / GREATER JAPAN
NEMESIS APPEARANCE work earned him membership in the first
YAMADA “TAKA” KENTA O-Yoroi unit, and as he puts it, “I never
A well-fed 185 cm, with black hair worn got around to quitting!” Over decades of
ATTRIBUTES in a chonmage topknot and usually covert actions and brutal warfare, he met
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
dressed traditionally, Kenta’s heavyset and patiently romanced his now-wife
body, firm handshake, ruddy-jowled Haruna, a StateEmpire intelligence officer,
10 12 9 12 (+1) 10 10 7
face, and effusive cheer put people at after her brief tour with the unit. He loves
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE ease despite his rank. His advancing age showing off holos of their three children
Combat +4 3 Movement +3 1 Social — — reveals itself in a somewhat stiff stride and five grandchildren and makes polite
Fortitude +1 1 Senses +3 3 Technical +1 — and posture, dark brown eyes with a excuses for her absence.
tendency to stare into the distance, and
DEFENCES hands that gently shake whenever he Only those closest to him know about
Firewall 11 Resolve 13 Vigour 17 loses himself in thought. Unusually for a his fourth daughter, Emika, a passionate
Security 3 Morale 4 Armour 3 Japanese man, and often concealed, his dissident who died in an Imperial
torso and arms sport elaborate colourful prison for repeated protests against the
ATTACKS tattoos depicting tales of Miyamoto systemic abuse and second-class status
• Marksman’s Pistol: Range M/L, 1+6§ damage, Burst 1, Musashi, a souvenir of his days as a of Japanese citizens. At the time a loyal
1H, Piercing 2, Unforgiving 2, Vicious 1 gunship pilot. subject of the Emperor and a staunch
• Neokatana: Melee, 1+6§, Unbalanced, Non-Hackable, believer in patient integration, he tried
Piercing 3, Vicious 3 ROLEPLAYING to force Emika to publically recant.
• Neowakizashi: Melee, 1+4§, 1H, Non-Hackable, Parry When she persisted in her rebellion, he
2, Vicious 2
• Affable: Yamada is easy-going and disowned her, physically throwing her
friendly, remarkably difficult to offend out of the family’s estate. Her death a
TAG ARMAMENT
and easy to get a laugh from. He looks few months later drove the final wedge
• Experimental AP HMG: Range C/M/L, 2+8§ damage,
Burst 3, Unwieldy, MULTI Light Mod, Piercing 2, Spread 1, for established connections with between not just him and Haruna, who
Unsubtle people in common and finds points of always held more staunch views, but
• + Needle Grenade Launcher: Range M, 2+7§ damage, shared interest. between him and the StateEmpire.
Burst 1, Unbalanced, Indiscriminate (Close), Munition, • Hawk: Kenta is unflinching and matter-
Piercing 2, Speculative Fire, Spread 1, Vicious 2 of-fact about war and death, always With all of five minutes planning,
evaluating, and often sets quiet traps he made the decision to abandon his
GEAR: Light Combat Armour (Uniform), Multispectral and baits others into over-sharing in wife and defect with his wider family
Visor 2 conversation. to Greater Japan. While even this might
SPECIAL ABILITIES • In his TAG: He leaves close-in combat have been forgiven somewhat by the
• Common Special Abilities: Superhuman Coordination 1 to others unless strictly necessary, is StateEmpire, he knew the location of
• Bushi: Has the Martial Artist and Quick Draw Close constantly on the move, and snipes several mothballed O-Yoroi TAGs and
Combat Talents, and the Marksman, Clear Shot, and at a distance with his Kidobutai’s was more than happy to hand that
Precise Shot Ballistics Talents.
customised AP HMG. information over. His peers and superiors
• Iaidō: Defence and Guard Reactions by targets of Kenta’s
assume his obsessive fixation on work
melee attacks require Close Combat Focus of 2 or more
and cost 2 additional Heat or Momentum. BACKGROUND is due to bitterness left over from the
• Yabusame: For 3 Heat, Kenta can make three separate Uprising, patriotic fervour, or a desire to
Burst 3 HMG attacks against three different targets as Already an experienced ZQ-88 gunship build a better world for his family, but
a single Standard Action. These attacks can be made pilot when the Kidobutai programme the truth is it’s all he has left. He always
from different zones as he moves through them during began and given the callsign “Taka” loved the excitement and danger of his
his turn, and no additional Heat is required for the extra (“hawk” in Japanese) for notoriously job far more than he let on, the thrill
Reloads. good accuracy, Kenta had actually left of the kill, dancing unharmed through
StateEmpire service for more lucrative danger, and after Emiko’s death, the
work as a mercenary for ten months brutality of combat is the last place he
before he was lured back by the chance still feels powerful, in control, free. The
to pilot a TAG. Fewer of his skills cause of Greater Japan is just an excuse.
transferred than he had hoped, but hard

34 Chapter 1
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

Early in the development phase for the ELITE

O-YOROI TAG
ENCLOSED, GROUND, HANDS, SINGLE-SEAT, JSA’s first military TAG, their analysts pre-
WALKER dicted future deployments on primarily O-YOROI PILOT
urban battlefields, and emphasised the
ATTRIBUTES The original O-Yoroi were ancient samurais’
need to leverage pilots’ innate combat
Scale Speed Brawn heavy armour. To distance itself from its
skills — true mechanised samurai.
2 2 17 (+2)
Chinese competitors, the Japanese military
Combined with their O-Yoroi pilots’ feroc-
aimed for similar mobility and precision
DETAILS ity, audacity, and discipline, the resulting
when conceiving armoured units and used
O-Yoroi TAGs served a key role in count-
Max. Passengers Impact the same term for unit pilots. Their training
less conflicts, striking far behind enemy
1 3+7§ (Knockdown) emphasised not only piloting skills but close
lines to pin down the enemy, allowing
Hard Points combat in traditional, albeit scaled up, sword
StateArmy forces room to manoeuvre
techniques. This was for practical reasons
Chassis 0 (Kinematika), Comms 0 (ECM 1) freely in the ensuing chaos.
beyond hiraeth nostalgia. With JSA units
DEFENCES rarely a logistics priority and often operating
During the Uprising, those same
Structure 15 Firewall 10 far from supply lines in enemy territory, con-
tactics were turned against their former
Armour 7 BTS 6 serving ammunition was essential.
comrades, delaying the StateEmpire
at a brutal and bloody cost. Since the
MOUNTED WEAPONS: A rare blend of ferocity, audacity, and disci-
Uprising, surviving O-Yoroi are icons of
• AP HMG: Range L, 2+5§ damage, Burst 3, Unwieldy, pline, the initial O-Yoroi’s highly publicised
Japan’s newfound independence and
MULTI Heavy Mod, Piercing 2, Spread 1, Unsubtle exploits on the battlefield led to a rapid
homegrown expertise, so much so that
• + Heavy Flamethrower: Range C, 2+5§ damage, Burst expansion of the programme and a surge
commanders are reluctant to place them
1, 2H, Incendiary 3, Munition, Terrifying 2, Torrent in interest in traditional martial arts. Most
in danger, fearing public backlash if
schools in Japanese territory have a thriving
• TAG-Scale Katana: Melee, 3+10§ damage, they are defeated. Debates on allowing
Kendo club if it isn’t already part of their
Unbalanced, Area (Close), Piercing 3, Spread 1, Vicious 3 the sale of O-Yoroi TAGs to outsiders to
curriculum. Many mechanised samurai have
SPECIAL ABILITIES: acquire much-needed funding (and a
become outright celebrities, particularly since
• Budō: The O-Yoroi’s pilot can take advantage of their degree of deniable plausibility in future
the Uprising, and exaggerated tales of their
Acrobatics, Athletics, and Close Combat Talents in combat operations) are ongoing. The O-Yoroi
adventures common fodder for children’s
without penalty or limitation. TAGs remain essential, on or off the
entertainment feeds.
• Giri: O-Yoroi pilots have 3 Morale Soak while in their battlefield. Their O-Yoroi pilots, of course,
TAGs, but immediately suffer 3 Metanoia if it is destroyed. would prefer on.
ATTRIBUTES
• Iaidō: Defence Reactions by targets of an O-Yoroi’s TAG- AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
scale katana melee attacks cost (5 – the target’s Close
11 8 10 10 7 8 9
Combat Focus) additional Momentum or Heat.
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Combat +3 2 Movement +2 1 Social — —
Fortitude +1 1 Senses +1 — Technical +1 —

DEFENCES
Firewall 7 Resolve 9 Vigour 10
Security 2 Morale 3 Armour 1

ATTACKS
• Contender: Range M, 1+4§ damage, Unbalanced,
Anti-Materiel 1, Vicious 2
• Neokatana: Melee, 1+5 §, Unbalanced, Non-Hackable,
Piercing 3, Vicious 3
GEAR: Light Combat Armour (Uniform), Multispectral
Visor 1, Respirator 1
SPECIAL ABILITIES
• Bushi: Have the Graceful, Free Runner, and Long Jumper
Acrobatics Talents, the Rigorous Training, Leverage, and
Irresistible Force Athletics Talents, and the Martial Artist,
Quick Draw, and Combat Specialist Close Combat Talents.
• Giri: 3 Morale Soak while in their TAG, but suffer 3
Metanoia if it is destroyed.
• Iaidō: Defence and Guard Reactions by targets of the
O-Yoroi’s Neokatana melee attacks cost (6 – the target’s
Close Combat Focus) additional Momentum.

TOTAL PROTECTION 35
 TAG COSTS TABLE
Vehicle Scale Speed Strength Armour BTS Impact Restriction Cost Tariff
Akrep 2 2 17 (+1) 8 6 2+7§ 5 (Haqqislam 4) 14+3§ T31
Anaconda X 2 2 16 (+1) 4+X 4+X 2+7§ X+2 (Nomads X+1) 12+2x§ T(X)1
4 (Haqqislam 3,
Bokböceği 2 2 16 (+1) 8 5 2+7§ 13+1§ T21
Mercenary 3)
Cutter 2 2 17 (+2) 8 6 3+7§ 4 (PanOceania 3) 15+5§ T41
Dragão 2 2 17 (+2) 8 6 3+7§ 4 (PanOceania 3) 15+4§ T41
Gecko 2 2 15 (+1) 5 3/6 2
2+6§ 4 (Nomads 3) 13+2§ T21
Guījiă 2 2 17 (+2) 8 6 3+7§ 4 (Yu Jing 3) 16+4§ T41
Iguana 2 2 16 (+1) 6 3/62 2+7§ 4 (Nomads 3) 14+3§ T31
Jotum 2 2 18 (+2) 10 8 3+7§ 5 (PanOceania 4) 16+4§ T41
O-Yoroi 2 2 17 (+2) 7 6 3+7§ 5 (JSA 3, ) 15+3§ T31
Lizard 2 2 16 (+2) 7 9 3+7§ Nomads 5 only 12+5§ T11
Marut 2 2 17 (+2) 8 9 3+7§ 5 (ALEPH 4) 12+2§ T41
4 (PanOceania 3,
Seraph 2 2 16 (+2) 7 6 3+7§ 14+4§ T41
Military Orders 2)
Squalo 2 2 17(+2) 8 6 3+7§ 4 (PanO 3) 14+5§ T31
Tikbalang 1 2 15 (+2) 6 6 3+6§ 4 (Yu Jing 5) 13+3§ T31
Uhlan 1 2 15 (+2) 6 6 3+6§ 4 (Yu Jing 5) 13+3§ T31
1
No Tariff for faction or nation purchasers
2
If purchased from non-Nomad sources, BTS 3 instead of 6.

36 Chapter 1

CHAPTER 2
POWERED ARMOUR
From the Imperial Crane agent apprehending a
suspect, to the PanOceanian knight defending their
charge, to the dauntless heavy infantry holding
the line against the Combined Army on Paradiso,
powered armour is an indispensable aspect of
modern warfare in the Human Sphere.
Game-changing armour is not a new phenomenon.
In the ancient history of the Human Sphere, back
when warriors of iron clashed in sweeping melees,
there was one figure whose arrival could change
the momentum of entire battlefields, the knight.
In a time of muscle-powered weaponry, a heavy
knight clad in full plate was nigh-indestructible.
Arrows, blades, and other attacks could rattle these
warriors, but it took incredible effort to fell one.
Of course, not every fighter was so attired. The
incredible cost to create and maintain these
suits of armour — to say nothing of the skill and
dedication required to effectively carry them into
battle — meant that relatively few soldiers enjoyed
their benefits. Those who did were like demigods
on the battlefield.
The invention of firearms quickly rendered plate
armour obsolete. For the next several centuries of
human history, the capabilities of human weaponry
vastly outpaced its defensive technology. And while
bulky vehicles still enjoyed the protection of a
sturdy hull, it was not until the First NeoColonial
War that the benefits of armour finally began to
catch up to humanity's destructive potential.
While servo-powered armour had seen use in
various applications for generations, Yu Jing Minster
of Defence Tseng Huan's mid-war overhaul of
the StateEmpire's military programme saw the
Invincibles take centre stage in the conflict, to
dramatic effect. Outfitted in the Niao Zui or “Bird's
Beak” heavy armour — so named for its distinctive
helmet shape — this new wave of heavy infantry
completely reversed Yu Jing's military fortunes.
PanOceania followed suit, and soon a new wave of
powered armour swept across the Human Sphere.
What was old was new again. Requiring great skill
and expensive resources to create and incredible
training and discipline to wear into battle, heavy
armour had returned to prominence. The modern
armoured warrior fills a similar role as their
predecessor. They show up, shrug off attacks that
would slay most soldiers, and turn the tide of battle
in their favour.
THE ROLEPLAYING GAME
“All right, I'm going over
this once, and only once.
LiquidShield isn't a marketing
POWERED ARMOUR IN buzzword or something to make
USE the corporate donors happy.
Kinetic energy distributes on
Of course, the battlefields of the Human Sphere are your suit, transforming impact
markedly different than the bloody plains of old. into vibrations, and the whole
Gone are the days when great waves of humanity thing is designed to disperse
crashed into each other, replaced by a measured, that energy. In other words, your
tactical approach that favours precision strikes. armour doesn't stop bullets. It
While Paradiso sees its share of massive battles, turns them into vibrations. Hell,
most operations in the Human Sphere are of a if anything, it amplifies them.
more contained and discreet nature. Comparatively
When you step into this armour
small groups of highly skilled operatives deploy to
without your fancy smart-gel
key locations where they strike quickly, accomplish long underwear, one good hit
their objective, and leave before their presence will vibrate with enough force
causes an international incident. to liquefy your organs where
you stand. And I'm the lucky one
So where does heavy, servo-powered armour fit into who gets to power wash your
this modern paradigm? Anywhere it pleases. Unlike insides out of the suit. So do me
their bulky ancestors, modern powered armour a favour and either wear the
augments and extends the physical capabilities whole kit, or don't bother.”
of the soldiers wearing it. Able to rapidly deploy
– Sine Kemper, Mercenary
and exfiltrate in virtually any location or terrain,
Engineer. LiquidShield®
powered armour is a true game changer in orientation for servo-powered
the corridor gunfights that define much of the armour units, Darkstar
clandestine warfare of the Human Sphere. Even Acquisitions & Redistribution.
on covert operations, agents have been known
to stash a suit of powered armour in a location
to be retrieved after their infiltration is complete.
More than one operative has made it back from a
successful mission and stepped out of their servo-
powered armour clad in now-ruined formal wear
and an ear-to-ear smile.
MODERN PROBLEMS,
MODERN SOLUTIONS
Even the most lightly armoured operative enjoys
protection that would seem otherworldly to prior
generations. An individual soldier's personal
tactical gear is form-fitted, lightweight, and
comfortable. Blanketed with thousands of micro-
improvements — from biosensors and smart kinetic
fabrics to bleeding-edge, hydrophobic moisture-
wickers — modern military gear is engineered
to give its wearer a distinct advantage under
physical stress.
Servo-powered heavy armour, however, raises the
bar to hitherto unforeseen heights. First comes
the under-suit, a distinctly modern update on
the principles behind ancient chain mail. This
nondescript under-suit integrates a razor-thin
smart gel mesh throughout the entire garment,
instantly reacting to shield the wearer from kinetic
POWERED ARMOUR 37

TWO TRUTHS
AND A LIE
“Yes, I have a collector’s permit,
I’m flicking you a copy now. Yes,
it has been tagged and spiked
by an authorised technician.
And yes, as you can see, the
security system is multi-layered
as per regulation, and the
ceramic-glass casing is the
best money can buy. Even
if it were operable, this is a
piece of art, stunning. It’s not
going anywhere.”
- Recording of Dante Faralla,
played at his court hearing.
He was later charged for the
illegal acquisition of operational
restricted ex-military hardware
and gross negligence after
it was stolen by a team of
operatives, identities and
nationalities unknown.
38 Chapter 2
impact without adding bulk. Known by many
names, this ultralight material covers the entire
body, not only providing protection in its own right,
but also forming the necessary foundation for the
outer layers.
Built to withstand an impressive amount of force,
military grade exoskeletons boast active kinetic
redistribution technology, capable of literally
redirecting lethal fire into an annoying buzz. Like
an electrical current run to ground, this anti-
fragmentation, anti-ballistic technology serves to
keep soldiers alive, even when taking heavy fire.
Defence is not the only purpose the exoskeleton
serves. It acts as a scaffold for additional
technologies, such as servo-powered enhancements
to a wearer’s strength and agility. Powered armour
uses a lot of energy in the field, and most units
sport back-mounted recursive generators, allowing
for three to five days in the field without stopping
to recharge. Portable recharge “bricks” are a
common option for further extending unit autonomy,
and contrary to popular media, the generators are
not particularly combustible, nor do they constantly
glow in neon hues. They are, in fact, effectively
silent in operation.
METAL SKIN to lobby for a Collector’s Exemption to these
Built on natural mapping principles, powered
armour operation is smooth and straightforward.
A properly calibrated and maintained suit of
servo-powered armour feels like an extension of
its wearer, allowing them to act and move normally.
Silent, hyper-efficient actuators effortlessly mimic
the biomechanics of the human body. Fast, complex
movements are no more difficult than they would
be without the armour. In fact, many prove much
easier, with the suits providing a kinetic boost to
strength and movement, leading to some truly
impressive acrobatic feats.
Providing flexibility in deployment and operational
capacity, one of the great advantages of powered
armour comes from what might be seen as a minor
advancement adjustment. During the latter stages
of the NeoColonial Wars, powered armour was
developed to compensate for local gravities. The
difference between the gravity in which the soldier
trained and the gravity they were deployed in had
often caused a significant hinderance to a soldier’s
capabilities. Even with extensive training in a
variety of gravities and environments, minuscule
adjustments to position, aim, and movement can
be the difference between life and death when
dropped into a warzone. The effects of gravity
cause even the finest soldiers to over or under
compensate as their bodies and muscle memories
adjusted. With a power armour suit that is able
to absorb the difference, soldiers are able to
operate at peak efficiency from the instant they are
deployed to the end of the operation. A hundred
seemingly small but important considerations
are built into modern power armour, making the
soldiers that wear it faster, stronger, and able to
function more efficiently across a wider range of
operational theatres.
POWER ARMOUR IN THE
HUMAN SPHERE
Power armour is undoubtedly high-end military
hardware. Besides being incredibly expensive, it is
also incredibly dangerous. Power armour is heavily
restricted across almost all of the Human Sphere,
sometimes for security and civil protection reasons
(as within the StateEmpire and PanOceania) and
sometimes for safety reasons (as within the Nomad
motherships). Exceptions are available in many
locations for law enforcement, security, mercenaries,
bounty hunters, and special case exemptions. Most
places in the Human Sphere do not allow civilians
without these special exemption to purchase or
wear power armour, whether for the protection of
civilians against violent offender in military-grade
armour or the safety concern of causing physical
damage to the interior of a ship or orbital. Within
PanOceania, a group of wealthy collectors managed
restrictions, but like all such restricted military
hardware, a technician must ensure they have
been rendered inoperable, they must be tagged for
tracking, and must be protected by security systems.
Many orbitals, stations, ships, and caravanserai
impose a flat ban on any hardware capable of
causing structural damage. Even military and law
enforcement personnel disembarking at these
locations leave their armour and weapons on their
ships. If soldiers in power armour are encountered
in these places, it is best for everyone to stay
out of the way. They are on operation. Checks for
contraband, including restricted and regulated
equipment, are always carried out at the dock, and
may result in a ship search, confinement order, or
arrest if a serious breach of local regulation is
uncovered.
CIVILIAN APPLICATIONS
Many of the companies that develop the
technologies and systems that make power armour
such an effective tool of war also seek to monetise
their research and developments through civilian
spin-off technologies. While the military requires
research and development work to be restricted for
military use for a number of years, more and more
corporations ensure they include release clauses in
their contracts to redevelop aspects of technology
for commercial release after a certain amount of
time, usually five to ten years.

While power armour was developed for military
use, it has been the source of many non-military
technologies used widely throughout the Human
Sphere often under guideline and restriction.
Workers in heavy labouring jobs, mining, mechanics,
and even surgeons in an operating theatre are
often supported by specially designed exoskeletons
designed to protect or enhance the wearer’s
capability to perform their job.
The refinement of the exoskeleton for military
power armour has led a technological boom that
for many corporations has outstripped even the
massive investments made by the militaries of the
Human Sphere. These redesigned exoskeletons have
allowed humans to take on jobs and maintain roles
in a wide range of industries that might otherwise
be consigned to expensive remotes. It also allows
such workers to operate in environments that would
be hazardous or even lethal. Many corporations,
particularly within the Yu Jing StateEmpire, make
extensive use of so-called augmented workers
rather than invest money on more expensive and
often heavily regulated alternatives. Remotes
require operators, technicians, licences, and support
hardware and software, many of these leased from
the manufactures. Exoskeletons, on the other hand,
are less complicated pieces of machinery, can often
be serviced and maintained in house, and the cost
of the worker operating it is significantly lower than
a highly trained technician. High-end exoskeletons
have also been developed for specialised fields
from technicians to surgeons, boosting stamina and
fine control and granting immediate access to a
wide variety of interchangeable tools.
First developed for spacesuits then hazardous
environments, the life support systems were
refined and redesigned to provide soldiers in power
armour with a wide range of nutrients, medical
supports, and life preservation technologies. These
are also used extensively in civilian applications.
Applications range from high-end fitness wear that
can feed the body nutrients and water as the body
requires to clothing with in-built medical support
for people suffering a variety of conditions. While
medical treatments are highly advanced, the use of
undergarments that provide medical assistance are
regularly used after treatments to aid convalescence
or in cases where surgical intervention may be too
dangerous, and long-term management is required.
Many sporting bodies and companies that produce
sportswear have redeveloped aspects of the
exoskeleton and inner weave constructing smart-
wear that is designed to hone and gently correct
THE ROLEPLAYING GAME
posture, positioning, and provide resistance for
targeted muscle groups during work-outs. Similar
smart-wear has been developed for teaching and
training purposes, and ironically, smart-wear has
filtered back into the military through training
wear used by soldiers to improve and hone muscle
memory and fitness.
Power armour has revolutionised warfare and the
capacity of small groups to wage multifaceted
combat actions, but the technology has also had a
far-reaching impact on the Human Sphere itself.
A THIN BLURRED LINE
Every hyperpower has its own approach, institutions,
and organisations when it comes to law
enforcement. The growth of mercenary companies,
the rise and use of what have been dubbed by O-12
as the Non-Aligned Armies, along with the increase
in heavy corporate security have all been pressures
that have slowly eroded the boundary between
restricted military technology. As mercenaries and
corporations increase their firepower and capacity,
there is a pressure to increase the firepower of law
enforcement in lock-step. Indeed, in many places
around the Human Sphere, law enforcement has
been reshuffled and absorbed by the military, with
infantry and even TAG units providing support to
military investigators and detectives who maintain
law and order. Differences are significant across
the Human Sphere, but a general blurring between
military and non-military has increased over the
last decade and escalated with the recognition
of the Non-Aligned Armies. Almost everywhere
money talks, and a group that is able to secure
enough influence, the ear of the right government
official, or simply has enough financial backing can
purchase the special case exemptions and licences
required to equip themselves or their subsidiaries
with military grade gear. Power armour is heavily
restricted, but restrictions have become a bar that
can be lowered through the studied application of
influence and capital.
REFERENCED GEAR
It’s entirely possible that a reader seeking to use
this book might not have access to the books where
specific equipment is listed and its impractical to
add every weapon and piece of gear to this book.
If equipment in this chapter isn't in the Infinity
Corebook and you do not have access to the faction
book it is found in, the simplest thing to do is
substitute a similar piece of equipment from the
Corebook or remove the item and grant a suitable
hardpoint to the TAG or Remote.
POWERED ARMOUR 39

“Why would we do this? Yes, it’s
unsettling when you think about
it, but there are very good reasons.
If any one of us suffers an injury
to the head — and remember
these models are designed to see
front-line action in intense combat-
zones — then we lose complete
functionality. A shot to the head is
a shot to the brain, to the control
centre. It’s why we spend so much
money and time developing new
and better helmets. But what if we
could do more? That’s the question
we sought to answer. What if we
continue to develop state-of-the-
art defensive technology for the
head and the rest of the body
but also shift the control centre?
What if we take the quantronic
brain of the Lhost, and spread it
out? With systems designed with
redundancies, to multifunction,
and to compensate for the loss
of sub-sections, distributing the
neural network throughout the
body allows greater protection
for the control centre. Damage to
one small section does as much
to destroy this control centre as
killing one insect destroys the
hive. Where is the brain? Well,
it’s everywhere.”
- Dr. Anton Westler, lecturing students
at Concilium University on the
mechanical design of Aspect Lhosts.
40 Chapter 2
ALEPH
As humanity's guide, assistant, and protector,
ALEPH's forces see their share of dangerous
situations. ALEPH prioritises the protection of its
field assets, especially when it comes to the Special
Situations Section, ensuring that not only do they
complete their tasks, but they carry the knowledge
of that victory back to its daath cloudmind,
increasing ALEPH's tactical understanding. ALEPH’s
forces wear power armour, especially when
dropped into the front line against the forces of the
Combined Army. In this great struggle for lives and
the freedom of the Human Sphere, and especially
ALEPH itself, survival is a key mandate. Not only
are the Lhosts used by ALEPH designed to be
tough, but when sent into front-line roles, they are
also often wearing power armour, a second layer
of protection that ensures the highest probability
of both achieving the mission and getting back
in one piece. Directive 7 ensures the integrity of
ALEPH’s datasphere should any Aspect be captured
or sepsitorized, but layering protective gear allows
for the best chance to avoid having to use this
drastic final step. The SSS and other ALEPH Aspects
and Posthumans do not only operate against the
Combined Army, they are also widely used and
deployed throughout the Human Sphere. These
may be in official capacities and may also be
undercover. Within the Human Sphere, the tenets
of the Utgard Accords allowing for the deployment
of the SSS prevent ALPEH’s military involvement
unless under strict guidelines. At times however, it
has been necessary to sidestep official channels or
to ensure that Posthumans and Aspects of ALEPH
are safeguarded against those who would do them
harm. Wearing armour and carrying weapons in
this context is far too bold a move beyond the
Utgard Accords to be feasible, and would indeed,
be detrimental to the goals of the AI. The solution
instead is to examine the manner in which a Lhost
is constructed and engineer them in such a way as
to make sure that in any attire or situation, they are
well protected and capable of self-defence should
the need arise.
BULLETPROOF SKIN
While Aspects such as Joan of Arc and Achilles
don magnificent armour as they take the field
and the Sophotects are rarely seen without their
signature protection, many of ALEPH's Lhosts are
built to specifications that could make an armoured
personnel carrier blush, no further armour required.
From the Posthumans' Proxy Mk.4, to bleeding-edge
Bodhisattva Lhosts — such as the Aditya i-Lhost
that carries the deadly Asura — many in ALEPH's
service can shrug off what would normally be fatal
attacks as though they were the stings of an insect,
irksome, perhaps, but hardly a threat worth getting
upset about.
The advantage of building a Lhost from the ground
up is undeniable. While a Lhost is designed to
seamlessly mimic the human form in motion and
physicality, and indeed is capable of much more,
the flexibility allowed by having the freedom to
remodel how those motions are achieved is a
powerful opportunity. The interior of a Lhost — the
skeleton and musculature and the actuators,
servos and gears that move it — do not necessarily
need to mirror the internal structure of a human
body. For many Lhosts, especially those used for
Recreations, the interior structure of a Lhost is often
closely modelled on the human form, a carefully
deliberate design that has been found to reduce
incidents of Resurrection Dysmorphic Disorder
considerably. However, when a Lhost is designed
to house an Aspect, the trivial concern of whether
the consciousness inside the Lhost has a rejective
reaction to its physical form is irrelevant. For Aspect
Lhosts, this has allowed for a radical departure
from the human form in internal structure. The
scaffolding or skeleton, as well as the musculature
that moves it have all been redesigned to allow
a greater range of motions and flexibility, and in
the event of an injury that pierces the defensive
outer layer, the internal structure is designed to
redirect and deflect the kinetic energy and piercing
item away from important hardware, such as
servos, actuators, battery packs, and quantronic-
neural bundles.
It might seem like cheating to take a body that is
more durable than most milspec combat armour
and cover it in the latest servo-powered smart
armour, but this is exactly how ALEPH likes it. With
stakes this high, why play fair? When ALEPH sends
its Aspects into danger, fairness is the furthest thing
from its polythreaded cloudmind. Every edge, no
matter how slight, factors into ALEPH's calculations,
giving the Special Situations Section every possible
advantage before it heads into the fray.
Complete control and frightening capacity are the
goals, and the battlefront is two-fold. On one hand,
it is fighting the existential threat of the Combined
Army, on the other it is proving, through sheer power,
how adrift the Human Sphere would be without
demigods to protect and wage war on its behalf.
Both are wars for survival, the former through
military victory and the latter through hearts and
minds. While the AI is more than confident in its
proprietary designs, ALEPH feels no particular sense
of pride or decorum in these matters. Victory is what
matters. If that means creating a situation in which
its human charges feel woefully inadequate next to
its mighty Aspects, then so be it.
After all, wouldn't it be better to allow ALEPH to
handle such matters entirely?

ASURAS
ALEPH's elite heavy infantry, one could argue that
the Asuras do not wear powered armour so much
as they are powered armour. Their Aditya i-Lhost
bodies boast intelligent, real-time kinetic diffusion
technology that rivals the protection of even
the most durable heavy powered armours. And
that's before factoring in the other benefits these
Bodhisattva-class Lhosts grant their Aspects due to
their internal structure and configuration.
Asuras typically work by themselves or as part of
a small unit. It's rare indeed to see them shoulder
to shoulder with the closest that the Special
Situations Section has to ‘rank and file’ units. As
ALEPH's dispassionate and cold left hand, these
merciless Aspects carry out the AI's plans with
brutal efficiency. Campaigning for days on end with
little to no rest, yet showing no visible signs of
fatigue, the Asuras can inspire just as much terror
in their allies as they do their enemies.
The Aditya i-Lhost often used by Asuras are
capable of being heavily modified, with a variety
of limb and other hardware upgrades available.
Such upgrades are time consuming due to the
distributive model of construction, placing core
processing and memory in a network throughout
the body, rather than centralising it where a single
impact can cause multiple system losses and
failures. Due to this design feature, Asura upgrades
require a full download and then upload once the
modifications are complete, followed by multiple
rounds of testing to ensure everything is connected
and working as it should. Despite the time and
technician workhours it takes to complete this
process, the distributive model for core systems
is still regarded as a significant advancement in
Lhost design given the payoffs in durability and
survivability.
Asuras are special operatives, representing the
perfect amalgam of cutting-edge military hardware
and sophisticated training. Capable of undertaking
a wide array of mission types, from clandestine
sabotage to outright assault, they are frighteningly
efficient.
POSTHUMANS
Those Posthumans selected for service with ALEPH
represent the best of the best. In life, they were
highly intelligent, capable, goal orientated, hyper-
focused, and dogged in pursuit of their aims. In the
life after death of Posthumanity, they are all these
things and more. Those few who make it into the
Special Situations Section are equipped with high-
end Bodhisattva Lhost bodies, specifically modified
under design by ALEPH. Operating as individual
consciousnesses, they may arrive in an operational
theatre as an individual or as a unit of bodies all
THE ROLEPLAYING GAME
operated seemingly simultaneously by the one
mind. Able to work in the field independently and
make flash decisions with high probabilities for
success, they are versatile and extremely capable.
While the internal structure of the Lhosts used
by Posthumans resembles that of a human more
than those used by Aspects, the range of body
types used by ALEPH's Posthumans are tailored
specifically for the missions they will undertake.
Their capacity to feed information from multiple
sources into the one consciousness operating the
gestalt gives them a significant advantage in terms
of avoiding optimal firing solutions from identified
enemies. It is true that the Bodhisattva Lhosts
ALEPH uses for its Posthumans are well designed
and capable of withstanding fire that would
shatter a normal human body, but the capacity
of Posthumans to operate as a team of multiple
bodies has helped to significantly grow the myth of
power and invulnerability that surrounds them.
With enhanced data processing capabilities,
Posthumans are capable of absorbing, filtering,
and focusing on key data points in a stream of
information that may be coming from a dozen
different bodies. They are ideal for support and
assault roles, and each body is specifically tasked
and tailor engineered to a role, all mastered by the
one implacable mind. With the full knowledge that
even if their last body is shredded under fire, they,
the mind, will live on regardless, they can appear
heedless of danger and impossibly brave, and this
is a power that is hard to face down.
While the interior design of Posthumans has been
built off the pattern of human physiology and has
not aggressively pursued the distributive network
method for protecting the interior systems as the
Aditya i-Lhost, they are remarkably well armoured.
They sport the same absorbent subdermal armour
as the Asura models, which is relatively capable of
slowing or even stopping the tumble and passage
of a bullet and is highly effective in redistributing
kinetic impact energy. It also has the added
benefits of being mildly flame resistant. Layers
in the outer skin sheathing of most Posthuman
Lhost models are lined with an array of sensors
that quickly and clearly indicate the size and
significance of an injury and can detect a range
of chemical agents. The casings for important
internal systems, such as the skull and rib cage, are
constructed of high-density ceramics designed to
redirect energy and keep the internal structures as
well protected as possible. The Bodhisattva model
is fearsome in the punishment it can endure, and
its capabilities, especially when operating as a
gestalt team, help fuel the legend around their
power and prowess.
POWERED ARMOUR
IS IT ARROGANCE?
“Posthumans are often smeared
with the fault of being arrogant.
Is it arrogance? To see that
Posthumanhood is the next and
inevitable step for our species?
If the rest of the wash of the
human race could see beyond
their sad dedication to the fluid,
meat, and bone that was the
faulty best that nature could
provide they too would see.
The future lies not in whatever
chance results evolutionary
pressures can extract from such
poor materials. No. The future
lies in what we make of it:
nature got us this far, biology,
chance, and luck making what it
could with unclean clay. But we
have arrived at a dawn, a dawn
in which we can shape not
just the environment around
us, but ourselves as well.
This is the future, a reshaped
humanity born of intent and
bettered by artful design to
achieve dizzying heights of yet
untapped promise. The mind,
finally unleashed from imposed
bondage and allowed to
expand and explore, designing
ever more capable vehicles
tailored to the mighty tasks we
set before ourselves. Yes! That
is the future!”
- Professor Daniel Hawkins, in his
lecture, Post-humanism: Key to
the Future.
“We don’t know how they do
it, but the Asuras are always
gorgeous. They walk through
the battlefield as if they were
walking down the runway
of a fashion show, blithely
unaware of enemy fire as if it
were merely the flashes of the
press pack.”
– Go-Go Marlene in “Go-Go Goes
to War.” War like you've never
seen it before! Only on Oxyd.
41

ADITYA I-LHOST [ATTRIBUTE]
Created to carry deadly Asura Aspects into battle, and often granted to Posthumans ex-
pected to see combat, these hardened Bodhisattva i-Lhost variants are still elegantly
architected to enhance a particular attribute and incorporate bleeding-edge milspec
technology or maximum impact on - and off - the battlefield.
SPECIAL ABILITIES:
• Common Special Abilities: Inured to Disease and Pain, Keen Senses (Hearing, Sight,
Smell), Night Vision, Quantronic Jump, Superhuman Agility 1, Superhuman Awareness 1,
Superhuman Brawn 1, +5 Armour soak to all Locations, +2 BTS.
• Implanted Gear: Hacking device plus, Cube 2.0, Nanopulser, multispectral visor 3
• Bala: Extensive bio-architectural optimization grants +4 to one attribute.
• Manu: High-bandwidth immersion in Maya and exclusive ALEPH dataspheres
widens one's perspective, providing +2 Morale and Security Soak. The benefits are
temporarily lost if unable to connect.
BODHISATTVA LHOST [ATTRIBUTE]
Posthumans are resurrected by ALEPH into Bodhisattva Lhosts that elegantly enchane
their best attributes. Initially designed for Functionary Aspects, the Lhosts help Post-
humans distribute thier consciousness much as ALEPH does, allowing intuitive access
to quantronic processing, full immersion in the Maya datasphere, and even recursive
review and manipulation of their own cognition.
SPECIAL ABILITIES:
• Common Special Abilities: Inured to Disease and Pain, Keen Senses (Hearing, Sight,
Smell), Night Vision, Quantronic Jump, Superhuman Agility 1, Superhuman Awareness 1,
Superhuman Brawn 1, +1 Armour soak to all Locations, +2 BTS.
• Implanted Gear: Cube 2.0, multithreaded consciousness adaptation, Nanopulser.
• Upaya: Extensive bio-architectural optimization grants +4 to one attribute.
• Virya: High-bandwidth immersion in the Mata datasphere widens one's perspective,
providing +3 Morale and +2 Security Soak while connected.
STEEL PHALANX
A relatively recent strike force, the Steel Phalanx,
a redevelopment and expansion of the Assault
Subsection, are perhaps the most famous of
ALEPH's troops, thanks in most part to the wild
success of the Maya series, Myrmidon Wars. The
iconic Hoplite series of power armour, developed
by Apex Sykarikat, is regarded as one of the most
advanced and sophisticated forms of personal
armour in the Human Sphere.
The Hoplite series is so advanced that many of the
novel technologies and new materials developed
for it by Apex Sykarikat are held under military
top-secret/Alpha-Grade classified patents. So
heavily protected is the technology, that suits lost
to soldiers killed in combat are often the basis of
recovery missions. Sandwiched between layers of
nanomaterial armour weaves is a layer of conduits
covering the entire suit. These act as relays and a
signal booster, significantly increasing the range
and bandwidth of communication with and from
the suit. With microdot-processors scattered in
a tight configuration throughout this layer, even
a small piece can emit a beacon if that suit of
armour’s coded and encrypted trigger is detected.
This makes the theft or wrongful recovery of a suit
or even a part of suit next to impossible to achieve
without raising alarms.
42 Chapter 2
Many of the new materials that make the Hoplite
series such a bleeding-edge piece of military
hardware were developed in zero-g manufacturing
laboratories through a partnership between Apex
Sykarikat and ALEPH. ALEPH is the sole purchaser
of the armour, and it is only issued to soldiers of
the Steel Phalanx. Possession, even of scraps taken
from a battlefield, is a punishable offence, and will
surely result in a visit from the SSS.
ARIADNA
HOPLITE POWERED
COMBAT ARMOUR
HEAD TORSO ARM LEG BTS
4 5 3 3 4
Qualities: Power Armour 3, Repeater
RESTRICTION COST TARIFF MAINTENANCE
5 (ALEPH Only) 13+6§ T2 4
New Qualities: Power Armour
Rather than repeat the same information over and over,
suits with the Quality Power Armour X have the Qualities:
Comms, Exoskeleton X, Kinematika, and Self-Repairing.
Ariadna is often regarded as technologically
inferior to the other major players in the Human
Sphere. It is easy to forget in the face of this
persistent negative propaganda that Ariadna has
seen almost constant war against supposedly
technologically superior enemies and has fought
all of them off. In part, this is a result of the
fighting culture and spirit of a peoples stranded
and forced to survive in a hostile world, and it is in
part to their capacity to find elegant and efficient
solutions to problems other nations solve with
multi-trillion dollar research programmes. In
addition to the hardy spirit of innovation in Ariadna,
a rich source of Teseum has had significant benefits,
and Ariadna has made diplomatic ground in their
support of the war on Paradiso. The soldiers of the
Expeditionary Force offer their lives for the survival
of the Human Sphere, and their service has also
allowed Ariadna to negotiate for access to better
military hardware and even more importantly, the
skills required to fight the triple frontier of modern
warfare. Although many of the nation states that
make up the joint operation on Paradiso have
blocked or objected to Ariadna benefiting from
technology and skill sharing, a bleed-through of
skills related to service have had a cumulative
effect on innovation and industry back on Dawn.
Ariadnan armour lacks the technological
sophistication of the power armours employed
by the likes of Yu Jing and PanOceania, but it is
nonetheless strong, well made, and well suited

to the fluid fighting methodologies of Ariadnan
forces. Armour built on Ariadna is typically laced
with a Teseum inner weave or reinforced with
a fine Teseum inner layer. The strength of these
solutions is nearly able to rival the best of what
heavy infantry armour has to offer elsewhere in
the Human Sphere. Lacking sophisticated tracking
and targeting technologies, survival and life
support systems, and advanced communication
arrays, Ariadnan armour is often light wearing
and built to best support the free movement and
capabilities of the soldiers wearing it. Tough and
hardy by nature, an Ariadnan soldier is expected to
be able to handle the trivial matters of life support
and survival using skill and knowledge. Because
Ariadnan armour lacks the advanced capabilities of
powered armour, it is impossible to hack, lending,
as the Stavka are fond of saying, a clear advantage
on the modern battlefield. When considering
Ariadnan armour, there are three notable standouts,
the Buffalo powered armour, the Ratnik, and the
Mormaer armour of the Caledonian elite.
BUFFALO ARMOUR HEAD
The 10th Heavy Rangers Battalion has a brutal
reputation. And they’ve earned every bit of it. The
tenth battalion — collectively known as Blackjacks
— aren’t interested in concessions, stalemates, or
taking prisoners. Taking this to an extreme, once
the smoke clears, the Blackjacks make their way
through the battlefield, putting down any survivors
with a single, fatal bullet and leaving a literal
calling card on the body in the form of an Ace of
Spades. While somewhat less daunting when your
enemies all have Cubes, the message remains
the same. When the Blackjacks arrive, it’s not to
make nice.
While technically not TAGs, anyone facing down
a squadron of Blackjacks in their Buffalo armour
could be forgiven for confusing the issue. The
sight of a massive exoskeleton advancing on your
position, murder gleaming in its pilot’s eyes, is
enough to make anyone ignore semantics.
The Buffalo armour's archaic technical solutions,
basic radios, and crude servo-designs translate into
legendary endurance in the field, resulting in equal
parts admiration and frustration to those unlucky
enough to see them in action. The armour typically
comes with standard built-in weapons as well as
one of two heavy weapon loadouts. Swapping a
weapon loadout takes a day and a Tech (D2) test.
Designed and built by USAriadna DARPS, and
deployed literally hours after the test programme
was flagged as successful, the Buffalo armour
is the most effective piece of military hardware
innovation developed on Dawn. Buffalo armour
is extremely strong and resistant. Underneath
an ablative outer ceramic coating, a high-density
alloy layer is sandwiched between two layers of
THE ROLEPLAYING GAME
Teseum plates, and finally under that, a layer of
padding. It utilises simple servos and gears, which
are hardy and durable, and a basic VFH radio set
built into the rear of the suit. Buffalo armour is
regarded by many in the Human Sphere as an
exemplar of fascinating antiquated technology.
While something of a curio to paleoengineers and
analyists, few can argue with the effectiveness of
the suit. Despite lacking the bells and whistles of
more technologically advanced power armours, the
Buffalo suit is tough, hard wearing, and extremely
durable in the field.
While DARPS and the USAriadna Ranger Force
maintain propriety control over the Buffalo armour
technology, a contact was tendered and won by
Americolt, a leading weapons manufacturer, for
production, service, and refinement of the armour.
BUFFALO ARMOUR
TORSO ARM LEG BTS
4/3* 5/4* 3/2* 3/2* 3/0*
Qualities: Exoskeleton 3, Heavy Armour, Self-Repairing
RESTRICTION COST TARIFF MAINTENANCE
5 12+23 § T3 (Ariadna 0) 1
STANDARD WEAPONRY:
- Chest Mine (x2): Range R/C, 2+5 § damage, Disposable, Grievous,
Area (Close), Piercing 1, Vicious 1, Unsubtle
- Heavy Pistol: Range R/C, 2+4 § damage, Unforgiving 1, Unsubtle
- Teseum Chopper: Melee, Piercing 4, Vicious 2
LOADOUT ALPHA:
-AP HMG: Range L, 2+6 § damage, Burst 3, Piercing 2, Spread 1,
Unsubtle
- Panzerfaust: Range L, 2+5 § damage, Burst 1, 2H, Needle Ammo,
Munition, Piercing 2, Spread 1, Unsubtle, Vicious 2
LOADOUT BRAVO:
- SMG pod: Range C, 1+5 § damage, Burst 2, Spread 1, contains 4
Reloads
- T2 Sniper Rifle: Range L, 1+6 § damage, Burst 3, Unwieldy,
Anti-Materiel 2, Piercing 2, Unforgiving 2, Vicious 2
SPECIAL ABILITIES:
- Ambulatory Tank: The armour has armour soak as listed, Structure
score of 8, can take up to four Faults before being disabled, and
absorbs damage in place of the wearer until disabled. The wearer takes
any excess damage not absorbed by the armour when that occurs.
- Heavyweight: Buffalo powered armour’s bulky low-tech components
and servos make the armour almost as large as a Gecko TAG, adding
+2 difficulty to Agility-based skill tests. Additionally, moving to a point
within Medium range is a Standard rather than Minor Action.
- Low-Tech Revenant: With a Tech (D1) test as a Standard Action
by the wearer, or if disabled by taking four Faults, the suit’s archaic
redundancies cannibalise components to keep it functioning long
after modern equipment would collapse. This can only be done once,
reduces its armour Soak by 1 for all hit locations, reduces its Structure
by 4, its Faults by two, its BTS to 0, and adds +1 complication range to
all subsequent tests in the armour, but heals all of the suit’s Structure
damage and Faults.
POWERED ARMOUR 43
 CALEDONIAN MORMAER
ARMOUR capable of producing Mormaer armour are valued
Mormaer armour is an ostentatious display of
status, power, and wealth. It is also a suit of
armour that will rival any in the Sphere. Those few
who earn the right to wear the Mormaer armour
are highly honoured warriors who have served
their clan in the toughest of battles and shown
bravery beyond the highest of levels expected
of a Caledonian soldier. Mormaer armour is
awarded to the very best a clan has to offer as a
symbol of thanks and award for excelling in the
face of dire circumstance. The warriors who earn
the Mormaer represent the ideal clan warrior:
resolute, courageous, undaunted, and skilled
beyond compare.
Made of Teseum of a purity impossible to find
outside the rich lodes of Ariadna, Mormaer armour
is a triumph of smithing. Making Mormaer involves
many secret techniques of folding and heating, of
mineral baths between working, of slow cooling
and slow heating and is known only to the very
best of the Caledonian armourers. It gleams with a
silvered and shimmering damascened pattern and
is nearly impossible to scratch, dent, or mark. Even
after heavy use in brutal and extended combats,
a suit of Mormaer armour often requires little
more than a clean, buff, and polish to restore its
glory. How exactly Mormaer is made, or indeed
how the Teseum is prepared for working, is a
protected knowledge. The art of smithing armour
is rare in itself, and attaining the level of skill and
dedication to clan and craft required to be trusted
with the knowledge of Mormaer construction
is a rare honour, exceeding even that of
44 Chapter 2
gaining the right to wear the armour itself. Smiths
as artists and hold a place of great pride and value
within a clan.
“THE BASTARD” FINN MCCAW
Finn McCaw, more famously known as The Bastard,
is a tale of national pride in Caledonia, though
comes from a dark moment in their shared history.
Finn McCaw was one of the leading armourers for
the Murray clan, ill-tempered, but an unsurpassed
craftsman in high demand, particularly for the
manufacture of Mormaer armour. During the
Commercial Conflicts, a sizeable bounty was
placed on the capture of any high-ranking
armourer of Caledonia. Finn McCaw was captured
in an operation linked with this bounty and was
interrogated in a corporate black-site in the forests
north of Loch Eil Lake for a number of weeks. A
lucky sighting of corporate soldiers by a fishing
scow on the lake led to an operation that located
and freed the famous armourer.
When Caledonian Mormaers (who had demanded
they take part) descended on the facility, they
found security on the outside struggling to get in,
and Finn inside, charging about, semi-blinded and
with bits of chair still strapped to him, causing
significant damage. The corporate staff within
the facility had barricaded themselves into one
of the cells, and reportedly begged the arriving
Caledonians to “Take the bastard back,” a quote that
was the origin of Finn McCaw’s nickname. Notes
seized from inside the facility during the mop-up
contained recounts of Finn McCaw repeatedly
taunting his captors, singing loudly in Gaelic,
pretending to break and reveal secrets which in
turn cost millions in lost Teseum, and even biting a
number of guards.
Due to injuries sustained during his interrogation
Finn was never able to work again, though he
did go on to mentor a generation of highly
skilled apprentices before his death. Throughout
his ordeal “The Bastard” Finn McCaw never
surrendered the prized knowledge of Mormaer
creation.
MORMAER ARMOUR
HEAD TORSO ARM LEG BTS
3 4 3 3 1
Qualities: +2 Morale (Calendonia), Non-hackable
RESTRICTION COST TARIFF MAINTENANCE
4 (Caledonia 3) 14+4§ T4 (Ariadna 0) 1
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

ISC: ARMATA-2 PROYEKT “RATNIK”

A redesign and iteration of the highly successful
Buffalo armour, the Armata-2 Proyekt, most often
referred to by its nickname Ratnik meaning
warrior, is a Kazak creation that has achieved
remarkable results on the battlefield. Taking
the standard Buffalo frame, the Kaztec Arms
Research Corporation (Казтех) took a careful and
considered approach to the redesign. The Buffalo
was already a powerful piece of equipment, and so
redevelopment of the technology took an approach
that sought to address perceived weaknesses rather
than a complete overhaul. Identified limitations
included the length of time for which the Buffalo
could operate before requiring new fuel cells,
the sheer noise of the beast, and the potential
vulnerability of the pilot.
A complete redesign of the power supply was
undertaken, with Stavka leaked advances in
manufacturing processes, coming from sources
in the Tekhnologii Vstrecha. The size of the fuel
cells was reduced without impeding the charge,
allowing several more cells to be built into the
back compartments of the Armata-2. The container
holding the cells was reinforced and designed
to be attached and detached through a series
of coded quick release clips, making them easy
to swap over in the field. These alterations, even
with an increased drain due to other modifications,
have given the Armata-2 Proyekt twice the active
operational time as the Buffalo.
Significant efforts were made to reduce the noise
generated by the Buffalo. Although a substantial
factor in creating an aura of intimidation, it was
felt that an enemy’s awareness of a Blackjack’s
arrival came too early, and that could be stymied by
reducing the sound generated by the machine. In
addition to this design consideration, Kaztec also
wanted to be able to turn off the audio dampening,
allowing the Ratnik to suddenly roar into life on
the battlefield, causing the abrupt impact of shock
and awe. Muffling and audio dampening systems
were added to the motor, gears, and servos, able to
switched-off by the pilot as they approached the
hot zone of a conflict.
Finally, significant changes were made to the
pilot’s compartment. Instead of a fitted helmet, the
protection of the armour was extended to include
the entirety of the pilot. Armour beneath the frame
was increased, and a deflective shield installed just
RATNIK ARMOUR
HEAD TORSO ARM LEG BTS
4/3* 6/4* 4/2* 4/2* 3/0*
Qualities: Exoskeleton 3, Heavy Armour, Self-Repairing
RESTRICTION COST TARIFF MAINTENANCE
5 — — —
STANDARD WEAPONRY:
- Heavy Pistol: Range R/C, 2+4§ damage, Unforgiving 1, Unsubtle
- Trench Hammer: Melee, 2+7§, Unsubtle 2, Thrown, Vicious 1
- Knife: Melee, 1+6§, Concealed 1, Non-Hackable, Subtle 2, Thrown,
Unforgiving 1
LOADOUT ALPHA:
- Heavy Rocket Launcher: Range L, 2+5§, Burst 2, 2H, Terrifying,
Unsubtle
- Heavy Shotgun: Range C, 2+6§, Burst 1, 2H, Knockdown
o Normal Shells (Primary) Area (Close), Spread 1 GM OPTION
o AP Slugs Mode (Secondary) Piercing 3 Instead of using the heavy
LOADOUT BRAVO: rocket launcher presented, GMs
with the Paradiso Sourcebook
- 2x Molotoks: Range M, 1+5§, Burst 3, 2H, Spread 2, Unsubtle
may prefer to use the Missile
- 2x Panzerfausts: Range L, 2+5§, Piercing 2, Munition, Spread 1, Tube rules presented there with
Unsubtle, Vicious the Heavy Rocket Launcher
SPECIAL ABILITIES: replaced by 2-4 Missile Tubes.
- Ambulatory Tank: The armour has armour soak as listed, Structure score
of 10, can take up to four Faults before being disabled, and absorbs dam-
age in place of the wearer until disabled. The wearer takes any excess
damage not absorbed by the armour when that occurs.
- Heavyweight: Buffalo powered armour’s bulky low-tech components
and servos make the armour almost as large as a Gecko TAG and add +2
difficulty to Agility-based skill tests. Additionally, moving to a point within
Medium range is a Standard rather than Minor Action.
- Lo-Tech Revenant: With a Tech (D1) test as a Standard Action by the
wearer, or if disabled by taking four Faults, the suit’s archaic redundancies
cannibalise components to keep it functioning long after modern equip-
ment would collapse. This can only be done once, reduces its armour
Soak by 1 for all hit locations, reduces its Structure by 4, its Faults by two,
its BTS toa0,reinforced
below and adds +1 complication range to all subsequent
canopy protecting tests in
the pilot’s
the armour, but heals all of the suit’s Structure damage and Faults.
head. The introduction of the canopy also allowed
for a larger visual space in which to display more
comprehensive battlefield information than
the helmet had previously allowed. While these
changes appear largely cosmetic and the lineage
of the Buffalo can be clearly seen in every aspect
of the Ratnik, they are significant and provide the
Ratnik with a greater level of flexibility on the
modern battlefield.

POWERED ARMOUR 45
 HAQQISLAM
Despite its size, Haqqislam is the developer of
some of the most advanced power armours in
the Human Sphere. This is partly due to their
Silk-derived wealth and partly to preferential trade
agreements for Teseum, secured through unfailing
support for Ariadna in the houses and councils
of Concilium. The nation also has significant
and continued investment in its universities and
research and development programmes. Lacking
the same level of sheer power of industry that
PanOceania can exert or the force of will of
the Yu Jing StateEmpire, Haqqislam instead
maintains a key focus on building capacity, and
this means education. Bourak boasts some of
the best universities to be found anywhere, and
these in turn are buoyed by a range of social and
economic supports that are able to attract the best
and brightest regardless of their social position
or the financial capabilities of their families.
By maintaining a high standard of education,
Haqqislam maintains a focus on creating a cadre
of skilled and highly capable professionals to push
the boundaries in almost every field of scientific
development. Most famously true for the fields of
medicine and terraformation, Haqqislam is also
regarded as an innovator in other scientific and
engineering fields, from Cube technology through
to robotics and augmentation. Robotics and
augmentation have close ties with the fields of
medicine, but also feed into the development of
high-end powered armour, often developed from
concept medical exoskeletons and support systems.
The best power armours produced by Haqqislam
are lightweight and draw on successes in the
field of medicine including the most advanced
life support and automedical systems available.
Haqqislam power armours also incorporate the
very best air and moisture filtration systems,
meaning the loss of capability given different
terrains and environmental conditions is minimal.
The lightweight suits created by Haqqislamite
engineers are capable of staying warm when the
outside conditions are chilling and keeping cool
in the sun-baked heat of the hottest afternoons.
All Haqqislam power armours also incorporate
advanced rad-shielding systems, This combination
of size, speed, life support systems and rad-
shielding make them ideal for use by corsairs, in
space combats, and ferociously capable in any
other theatre.
46 Chapter 2
Core concepts developed in the universities
of Bourak relating to medical exoskeletons,
prosthetics, and augmentations designed to allow
operators to work in harsh conditions, are, by law,
proprietary to the universities and companies
that develop them. However, legal measures and
incentives also encourage corporations to make
concept technologies available for redevelopment
for pure military purposes by a select number of
state-sanctioned weapons developers.
This means that technological solutions to the
complexities of the modern battlefield draw
upon a wide range of research and development
programmes, side-stepping intellectual property
issues that might plague such a process in any
other nation. It also allows for a greater range of
out-of-the-box solutions than is possible when
R&D is something maintained in house at any
single corporation. In payment, universities and
corporations that permit research sharing gain
access to a wide range of financial incentives,
grants, programmes, and have early access to
tenders relating to their given fields. While
some might argue that this free access to R&D
programmes by the military is an overreach that
causes a loss of revenue, the reality is that the
benefits outweigh the losses, and this programme
has allowed Haqqislam to secure and maintain
a base of power far in excess of its relative size
compared to PanOceania and Yu Jing.
Weapons development in Haqqislam is confined to
a handful of companies sanctioned by the Hachib.
Many of these have financial links to the Funduq
Sultanate, allowing the Qapu Khalqi to equip its
army and naval forces with the most advanced
technologies available to any of the units in the
Sword of Allah.
One of the most well-known, the manufacturer of
the Siyah series of light power armour is Istehkam
Heavy Industries. Istehkam manufactures a range
of armour systems for the Sword of Allah, including
the Mehter Power Armour worn by the Janissaries
and the lighter Spar armour developed for the
needs of the Sekban medium infantry Naval Special
Unit. Istehkam has close ties with a number of
biomedical companies across Bourak, and the
automedical and life support systems in their
armours is second to none.

NAJJARUN ENGINEERS
The role that Haqqislam's Najjarun Engineers
play should not be underestimated. In addition
to the sabotage, scouting, countermining, and
trench warfare that embodies their role in the
Haqqislamite army's vanguard, the Engineers
also maintain its mechanical elements. They hold
things together with microwelders, adhesive, spit,
and prayer.
Najjarun Engineers perform a vital role in
maintaining the fighting effectiveness of any unit
equipped with power armour. They are capable of
refuelling automedical reserves and life support
systems, ensuring the armour is in full working
order, refitting elements that are poor fitting or
replacing those that are damaged, installing or
removing environmental filters, and upgrading
software to include the latest patches or to hone
performance to a specific battlefield environment.
This is vital work, as servos, actuators, and synthetic
muscles that enhance and augment movement are
at their best when adjusted for the environment
they are expected to be operating in. Heavy gravity,
low gravity, or zero-gravity, high humidity, unstable
terrain, all of these represent factors that can
impact the capacity of a solider to perform at
an optimal level. High levels of training ensure
that soldiers are capable of adjusting to any of
these environments, but supporting such training
through subtle adjustments to the power armour a
soldier is wearing allows that soldier to operate at
peak performance levels with less conscious effort,
freeing the mind to better engage in the situation
before them.
The Najjarun might not be the most renowned unit
in the Sword of Allah, but ask any armoured unit
which troops they can't afford to deploy without,
and the Najjarun's true value becomes clear.
NAJJARUN ENGINEERS
ARMOUR
HEAD TORSO ARM LEG
1 1 1 1
Qualities: Engineering Kit (also conveys Expert 1, Comms)
SIYAH LIGHTCOST
RESTRICTION POWER ARMOUR
TARIFF MAINTENANCE
2 8+2§ T2
THE ROLEPLAYING GAME
Universally regarded as the best lightweight
power armour on the market, the Siyah series is
most famously linked with the Asawira Regiment.
Solid and dependable, the Siyah series manages
to accommodate some of the most advanced
automedical systems present in any power armour.
Containing top of the range environmental
protection, advanced aiming and targeting systems,
and an unbelievably capable biotechnological
shield, the Siyah series is a triumph of engineering,
design, and miniaturisation. It is the gold standard
for light armour, and more than a few fallen
Asawira soldiers have been recovered from the
battlefield by black-ops teams from other nations
and corporations, hoping to reverse engineer even
a poor copy of the Siyah’s internal systems.
Ideal for fast moving special operations units, the
Siyah series sits in a league of its own. Istehkam
Heavy Industries is widely regarded as having
performed something of a miracle when creating
the Siyah.
Research from biomedical and terraforming teams
across Bourak contributed to the capabilities seen
in the Siyah series, there is something magical
about the way all these elements combine in
this light power armour. While the Asawira are
unarguably a highly elite unit, irrespective of the
equipment they carry, the Siyah they wear gives
them an edge in any environment or situation,
making them a truly terrifying force to be reckoned
with on any battlefield.
SIYAH LIGHT POWER ENGINEERING KIT
Najjarun Armour may only be
ARMOUR lightly protective, but there’s
a built-in space for everything
BTS HEAD TORSO ARM LEG BTS an engineer could need. These
0 3 4 3 3 6 armoured suits carry a range of
Qualities: Adaptation (All terrestrial environments), Power Armour 1, tools specially built to assist the
Najjarun Engineers to perform
Regeneration Augmentation
running repairs and resupplies
RESTRICTION COST TARIFF MAINTENANCE on the TAGs and powered
armour suits of soldiers in need.
2 2 13+2§ T2 1 The Najjarun Engineering Kit
grants 1 bonus Momentum to
Tech tests, and the Expert 1 and
Comms Qualities.
POWERED ARMOUR 47

INVESTING IN
SECURITIES
Military contracts are highly
prized, lucrative work. But they
also present a very real danger
to the corporation itself, as they
now exist as a strategic target
on a factional scale. Selling
weapons to Yu Jing might be
good business for a corp, but if
PanOceania is trying to hamper
the StateEmpire's military
readiness, then like it or not,
the corp has now become
a target.
None of this is publicly
admitted, of course. But
even with the threat of the
Combined Army breathing
down the Human Sphere's
collective necks, competition
between Human Sphere powers
is a very real, very dangerous
game. Add in the risk of rival
corporations looking to take
the organisation down a
peg or claim its contracts for
themselves, and standard-issue
corporate security units start
to look a little...underdressed.
Thus, several megacorporations,
virtually every hypercorporation,
and even a few traditional
corps field their own units
of servo-powered armoured
combat teams.
Purely for defence, of course.
Clearly, they would never dream
of illegally using a paramilitary
force to act against their rivals,
or otherwise seize an unfair
advantage by strength. At least,
not when they thought anyone
could prove it after the fact.
-Alfonso Delacroix, on the rise
of corporate armies for the
Mayacast investigative journalism
show Beneath the Surface, more
commonly referred to as Beneath.
48 Chapter 2
HYPERCORPORATIONS
Hypercorporations have been involved with
modern servo-powered armour from the very
beginning. From the invention of LiquidShield®
smart gel to the synthetic muscle fibre technology
allowing users to feel their own weight rather
than that of the armour or equipment, corporate
research and development plays an integral part
of modern defence technology. The degree to
which these are private entities or state aligned
depends heavily on the corporation and on the
nation state it works with. Generally speaking, the
corporations of PanOceania and Haqqislam are
private enterprises but often subsidised by the
government or beneficiaries of lucrative grants
and tax breaks. Ariadnan corporations tend to have
closer ties to the governments of their various
states, and a higher level of privacy and sole
partnership is expected. The same is true of the
Yu Jing StateEmpire. Corporations that flourish
in the StateEmpire tend to have close ties to the
party or may even be a front for a governmental or
military branch.
When manufacturing military hardware for
whichever state, hypercorps are typically expected
to maintain confidentiality, not trading on
technology or reselling unless specific permission
has been granted by the associated government
or military. With many hypercorps operating across
a number of national boundaries, the rules and
expectations they operate within are, by necessity,
flexible. At the end of the day, a corporation is
going to lose out if they turn around and on sell a
piece of technology developed specifically for one
nation, and it is better business to maintain private
and protected relationships with specific lines of
research or technologies. Given this, there are a
number of hypercorps that develop technology
for more than one nation state and maintain a
separation of development and research even
within their own departments in order to maintain
their long-standing relationships.
Corporate espionage is rife, and military technology
one of the biggest targets for this kind of spy
work. It is a murky world, and the spiderweb of
relationships, connections, and money make for a
tangle of alliances that is almost impossible to
tease out. Add in shell companies and the fact that
many espionage operations have been initiated
by a corporation against themselves in order to
muddy the waters of responsibility for when and
who is to blame for a piece of technology entering
the market, and the whole mess is a convoluted
network that Machiavelli would be astonished by.
The role that corporations play in powered armour
is well-understood. What slips through the cracks
— by design, to be sure — is the role that powered
armour plays in corporations. Security is a key
concern for any company dealing in the amounts
of money associated with military tenders, doubly
so when those same companies are developing
the next generation of weapons, ammunition, and
armours that will equip the armies of tomorrow.
With research and development facilities built in
carefully selected black sites across the Human
Sphere, often outside the jurisdiction of one or
all nation states in order to sidestep laws and
prohibitions, the risk that any one of them may
be the subject of assault, a snatch and grab, or
some form of espionage is high. To combat these
risks, corporations rely on state militaries, and
increasingly, their own security forces. These are
also deployed to key locations throughout the
Human Sphere where the company does business,
trades, or gathers its resources. Corporate security
overreach pushed the boundaries of what was
acceptable and legal during the Commercial
Conflicts on Ariadna. And while a litany of O-12
laws and statuettes have sought to reign this
in, all they have succeeded in doing is forcing
corporations to better conceal their actions. The
recent support shown by O-12 for the Non-Aligned
Armies has had the undesired, but sadly expected,
outcome of giving many corporations a green light
to further develop and extend their own corporate
security forces. Indeed, the sanctioning of the Non-
Aligned Armies has emboldened corporations to
push the boundaries of the laws inside the states
they operate in. Within all nation states, different
restrictions apply to non-government militaries
in terms of the size, armament, and operational
parameters. With the Non-Aligned Armies being
officially sanctioned by O-12 comes the question,
do the laws and sanctions passed by O-12 override
the restrictions put in place by a nation? Many
corporations seem to believe that the legal answer
is that yes, they do. Since O-12 legitimised what
were essentially private armies, the build-up of
corporate security forces has hit speeds and heights
not even seen during the Commercial Conflicts.
Where it will end will be an interesting question,
but the current pace of expansion would suggest
this is going to be a very difficult genie to get back
in the bottle.

LOĜANTO PROPRA MODS
Corporations do not field unique lines of powered
armour. It’s not worth the investment for a
corporation to develop an expensive high-tech
piece of equipment and not sell it. Thus, even
corporations heavily involved in the construction
of multiple lines of powered armour generally
don't produce unique models for their own
purposes. Instead, many military contracts that
corporations work on include clauses that allow
them the right to produce and field copies of
equipment developed for in-house use only. These
corporations that develop and build power armour
use small quantities of the suits they make to equip
their own security forces. While almost always
modified aesthetically to appear dissimilar, these
power armours are otherwise identical in every
meaningful way.
Most contracts restrict corporations from selling
power armour commissioned by a specific nation
to anyone else, and while corporations follow
this legal requirement, they also understand that
there is a thriving black market trade in military
hardware. Many hypercorps ensure that line faults,
batch errors, and other chicanery results in a
steady supply, off the books, to the black market.
If expensive hardware is being resold illegally,
most hypercorps want to make sure that they are
making the money. While both illegal and in breach
of contract, such activities are hidden behind
enough layers of legal procedure, filtered through
enough shell companies, and done in small enough
numbers, to make it more trouble than it is worth
to prevent it from happening.
Power armour is expensive and requires an
ongoing cost to refit and maintain. To make sure
that the off-market sale value stays as high as
possible and assist with the upkeep costs, most
corporations utilise an adaptive process usually
termed Loĝanto Propra. This uses LAI-powered
geist integrations to provide real-time adaptive
tweaks to individual suits of armour and is a selling
point for military buyers. While it results in some
loss of revenue given the company is not directly
involved with providing patches and upgrades on
a consistent basis, it also means that armour sold
through back channels is a far more attractive
proposition, and the overall gains are deemed to
outweigh the losses.
THE ROLEPLAYING GAME
LOĜANTO PROPRA
The modern hypercorporate experience is all about
customised solutions, especially when it comes to
their Loĝanto. Using advanced machine learning
and predictive algorithms, technology developed
according to Loĝanto Propra principles adapts to
the user's needs before they even realise they exist.
From office furniture that keys its shape to a user's
corporate ID and even stimulant injections based
on real-time biometric feedback, Loĝanto Propra
designs integrate with a user's geist to provide
adaptive technology that alters itself to perfectly
compliment the user.
For power armour this means targeting systems
learn to compensate for slight differences in
reaction times, that suits are able to form fit an
individual without expensive modifications, that
User A is slightly weaker on the left, requires a
higher percentage of oxygen during physical
exertion, or needs a higher level of nutrient feed. In
short, it means that armour learns to adjust to and
compensate for the user, making the soldier, human
and armour combined, a more effective weapon.
Adding a Loĝanto Propra system to an existing
set of power armour is a simple procedure,
requiring a Simple (D0) Tech test to install.
Uninstalling is a bit more involved, however,
requiring a Daunting (D3) Hacking test to
de-integrate the Gordian knot of subroutines.
A Loĝanto Propra modification reduces the
Maintenance Cost of the power armour it is
installed in by one. While not a significant
concern for militaries, for individuals,
paramilitaries, Submondo groups, and the like,
it's about being able to keep the lights on,
so to speak. The Loĝanto Propra is marketed
as a military solution, but in reality has been
specifically designed to make a company’s
power armour more accessible and cost
effective for mercenary groups, corsairs, pirates,
and other small time operators who function
without a governmental budget.
Special Abilities: AutoAdaptive Systems:
The Loĝanto Propra modification reduces the
Maintenance Rating of a suit of power armour
it is installed in by 1.
POWERED ARMOUR 49
 NOMAD
Despite lacking in numbers and working with
limited resources, the Nomad Military Force
maintains itself as one of the great successes of
the Human Sphere. They may not be able to field a
force equal in number to the Yu Jing StateEmpire
or pour the volume of money into military tech
that PanOceania is capable of, but the Nomads
have something that other nations lack, the
laboratories of Praxis. From Bakunin’s infamous
Black Labs comes lightning in a bottle. With money
from Tunguska, a multitude of secret society like
Black Labs are simultaneously experimenting and
developing new and strange technologies. Much
of this tech pushes the boundaries of human
alteration and augmentation, but a portion is also
dedicated to the development of weapons, TAGs,
and armour, making the soldiers of the Nomad
Military Force a power that is both surprising and
formidable.
Highly secretive and extremely wary of the threat
posed to humanity by the smiling devil ALEPH, it
is little surprise the biological and technological
shielding developed by the Nomads represents
some of the best and most advanced examples of
this kind of protection in the Sphere. Contained
in a fine mesh that creates a sort of Faraday cage,
laced on the exterior with an intricate network of
microchips that randomly create communication
tunnels through the protective layer for
randomised numbers of microseconds, tracking
and breaking through the network is difficult and
frustrating. An enemy hacker might manage to tag
an access point only to have it randomly shut down
for an indeterminate amount of time. With such a
large body of expert tactical hackers to call upon,
it is no surprise that Nomad armours are some
of the hardest to crack. Given their close working
relationship with the dangers of space, it is also
unsurprising that the physical seals and shielding
50 Chapter 2
against contaminates are also top of the line. This
stuff is life and death for the Nomads every waking
moment, and not just something developed by a
tech company on spec for a military contract.
Taking the old and breathing new life into it, this
is what the Nomads are unbelievably good at.
Often forced to bulk purchase old, retired, or faulty
equipment, the Nomad speciality is to take the
left overs and create from them something new,
something unexpected, to pull pieces from here
and there, and recombine them into a final product
that is strikingly different and shockingly effective.
Expect nothing and you will never be disappointed.
This is how the Nomads have come to view their
interactions with the Human Sphere. They are
always on the outside, always distrusted, mistreated,
prejudged… but with innovation and creativity, by
bucking expectation and not conforming, they have
found their own path. What is true in life is true in
their approach to developing technology. Living
with only a thin hull between themselves and the
crushing death of space, they have come to thrive.
They know danger; they live with it. Everything
they design and develop, rework and reengineer
serves a purpose, is not wasted effort, is well made
and put together with a careful precision that
comes only from living daily so close to danger.
It may not look like that from the outside, where
the clashing chaotic complexity of Praxis appears
to be so many insane children developing toys to
distract and delight, but that is a superficial view.
Dig deeper, and soon any observer will note how
the weapons, armours, and technologies that come
from the Black Labs are nothing short of cunning
innovation and design melded with a care for
good workmanship and love of aesthetic beauty.
Tunguska may provide the funding, and Corregidor
the soldiers, but the Black Labs of Bakunin keep
the Nomad Military Force equipped with the
technology that allows them to go toe to toe
against any enemy.

MOBILE BRIGADA
Premier heavy infantry, the Mobile Brigada are
the backbone of Corregidor. Highly capable, elite,
and able to endure in situations that many others
would crumble in, there is a good reason they are
one of the most sought-after mercenary soldiers in
the market. The Mobile Brigada are equipped with
iconic Protega power armour, which is form fitting
and provides a high level of protection against
physical damage and kinetic energy, including
a tight-weave inner layer of biotechnological
shielding. The Protega series was developed
specifically by the Black Labs to support the
Mobile Brigada in their role as versatile heavy
infantry. It extends the capabilities of the soldiers
wearing it, increasing their strength and endurance,
and contains software that can anticipate and
supplement movement, even across a wide variety
of environments and gravities. This ancillary effect
is subtle, increasing a soldier’s abilities rather
than supplanting them, and is ideally suited to
changing and challenging environmental work.
This is especially true in operations in zero-gravity,
where misjudgements in momentum can mean the
difference between life and death. Each soldier in
the Mobile Brigada is equipped with a Protega suit
that has been specifically adjusted to tailor fit their
form. A flexible underlay allows the suit to expand
or contract to match a changing body shape, and
the larger external plating is relatively easy to
adjust. The armour is at its best when altered to
feel like a second skin. The Protega also includes
heating and cooling elements spread across the
body and contains a recycling system that turns
sweat and waste back into safely consumable water,
improving the capacity of the Brigada to perform
long duration operations.
PROTEGA POWER ARMOUR
HEAD TORSO ARM LEG
4 5 3 3
Qualities: Adaptation (Zero-G), Power Armour 3, Vac Suit
RESTRICTION COST TARIFF
3 (Nomad 2) 13+6§ T2
THE ROLEPLAYING GAME
RIOT GRRLS
Infamous for their daring attitude, zeal, and passion
for bringing down the establishment, the Riot Grrls
of Praxis’s Beauvoir module are know across the
Human Sphere. When Bakunin originally meted
the idea of taking the troublesome elements of
the Beauvoir module, arming them, and setting
them loose on the enemies of the Nomads, there
was some general scepticism as to whether the
concept would be a success or terrible failure. In
the conflicts since, the Riot Grrls have acquitted
themselves and silenced any and all critics, coming
to represent one of the most dangerous and daring
units in the Nomad Military Force.
Equipped by the Forgewomen of Praxis’s own
Vukanja module, the Riot Grrls go into battle
carrying and wearing the best the Black Labs has
to offer. The Ognyena armour created for the Riot
Grrls is a masterpiece of design and functionality.
Self-tightening, it forms a close second skin, able
to distribute high amounts of kinetic energy and
highly resistant to being cut or pierced. Positioned
throughout the inside the Ognyena are a series
of slow release chemical delivery systems, most
often loaded with a mix of hyper-dynamic enablers
and medical packs. This ensures the Riot Grrls
can react to an enemy before they even start to
attack. Designed specifically to be protective while
augmenting rather than restricting movement, the
Ognyena armour might not be the heaviest armour
available, but it suits the requirements of the Riot
Grrls perfectly.
OGNYENA POWER ARMOUR
BTS HEAD TORSO ARM LEG BTS
4 2 4 2 2 3
Qualities: Power Armour 2, Personal Bioscanner (1 Dose of Serum)
MAINTENANCE RESTRICTION COST TARIFF MAINTENANCE
T2 (T4 if
2 4 (Riot Girls 2) 10+6§ presenting as 1
male)
POWERED ARMOUR 51
 NON-ALIGNED ARMIES
“Non-Aligned Armies” has become the palatable
term for mercenaries, paramilitaries, private
contractors, and soldiers for hire. While this
term also applies to the armed forces of the
Non-Aligned Nations, it has become a term that
has tacitly green-lit and legitimised an extremely
varied group of organisations, from outright
criminals or would-be-soldiers through to highly
trained and well-funded mercenary outfits. As long
as they have passed the regulations, applied for
NA2 Status, and contributed soldiers or support to
the war effort against the Combined Army, they are
regarded as a Non-Aligned Army. This is not to say
that gaining this status is easy or available to just
any group of armed thugs. O-12 does its best to
ensure due diligence is followed, and that groups
connected with illegal activities are denied. But
the war effort against the Combined is demanding.
The war front is expanding and hungry, and in the
hour of desperate need, stop-gap solutions are
better than no solutions at all. Most Non-Aligned
Armies are professional crews that operate legally.
Do some have connections that step outside the
grey boundaries? Probably. But as long as a cursory
glance shows that nothing is too amiss, awarding
NA2 Status means gaining grist for the mill, and
the mill is voracious.
NA2 Status demands an organisation contribute
to the ongoing war effort against the Combined
Army, but it also provides benefits. Most nations in
the Human Sphere have local restrictions and laws
around the possession, ownership, and purchasing
of military grade hardware, from weapons to
defensive systems like power armour. NA2 Status
provides legal exemptions that are meant to
override national laws. How exactly this will play
out is something a thousand courtrooms across
the Human Sphere will decide, but the intention
is clear. If a group or organisation commits to
supporting the war effort by providing troops
or on-the-ground assistance, and qualifies for
NA2 Status, then they should be able to access
the technology required to best equip them for
that role. A simple and desperate measure, and
one that has seen an explosion in the rise and
lethality of corporate security forces, mercenary
groups, and many others of more dubious
intention. It has also seen a sharp rise in the
capabilities being fielded against the Combined
Army. It is not a perfect solution, by any metric,
but it is getting the desired results, even if there
are unintended consequences.
able to equip and outfit their soldiers for the war
effort. In short this means bigger guns and better
armour. Mercenary companies have flourished as
a result and, with survivability rates increasing
due to better access to the hardware required of
the modern battlefield, are also better positioned
to offer ongoing support against the enemy of
mankind. The downside has seen an increase in
the trade of high-grade weapons and armour
and better equipped criminal organisations and
corporate security. These groups didn’t expend
serious amounts of capital increasing their
firepower with no intention of using it to extend
their interests, and the result has been a series
of “yes, but” clauses added to the NA2 regulations,
something that will keep lawyers busy for
years to come.
When it comes specifically to the subject of power
armour, how NA2 Status organisations are able
to access this technology relates directly to their
size and financial capabilities. A vast majority of
NA2 Status organisations purchase power armour
through black market or back channels, modifying
the exterior aesthetic to match their brand or at the
least to disassociate themselves from a well-known
brand — whether a famous military unit or other
group. Some NA2 Status organisations, like StarCo,
can afford to engage weapons manufacturers
directly, buying extant models of armour modified
to suit their own needs and specifications. The
gamut is wide, and the bigger or more well known
the NA2 Status organisation is, the more likely it
is that they will engage corporations to provide
their hardware in order to both better support their
troops and to extend their brand.

NA2 Status means, in essence, that the group

or organisation that gains it is freed from the
restrictions imposed by national laws and better

52 Chapter 2

O-12
Policing the Human Sphere is no simple task, even
if the nations that make it up weren’t on the brink
of all-out war. Bureau Aegis is tasked with the
unenviable job of coordinating the defence of the
Human Sphere against a marauding alien threat,
as well as enforcing the rulings of the Courts of
Concilium and the will of the Security Council and
the Öberhaus. To best execute their duties, often in
the face of unwilling parties, a degree of muscle is
required. Section Spatha, also called SWORDFOR,
is a militarised police force that is flexible enough
to execute military actions and to operate on
extended missions independently throughout the
Human Sphere in service of the law. This plasticity
is no mean feat, and SWORDFOR is divided into
a range of highly specialised units that are each
responsible for different roles according to the
needs of the Section. With enemies in front and
behind, representing both an advanced and deadly
alien menace and powerful militaries and criminal
organisations, it is imperative that SWORDFOR is
equipped to deal with any threat, and execute their
responsibilities with speed, precision, and force.
Prior to the threat the Combined Army posed to
humanity and the spiralling political situation that
has threatened to push the Human Sphere into
war with itself, O-12 relied on technology that was
donated from the powerful members represented
in the Öberhaus, primarily PanOceania and Yu
Jing. Frequently donated in lieu of membership
payments, these hand-me-down examples
of technology were regularly unreliable and
required a high cost of maintenance, something
that too often meant that O-12 was paying their
donors sizeable amounts in upkeep. During the
latter stages of the NeoColonial Wars, it became
increasingly apparent that the weapons, remotes,
TAGs and armour that Bureau Spatha troops used
were just too unreliable and outdated to support
the changing role of O-12 in the Human Sphere.
After significant debate in the Öberhaus, a decision
was reached to allow Bureau Aegis to restructure.
If the nations on the Security Council hoped
secretly that this would result in a weakened
or overextended Bureau Aegis, they were sorely
misjudging the people involved. Within Bureau
Aegis, a task force was assembled to handle
this restructuring, and in addition to redefining
the roles and responsibilities of Section Spatha,
they instituted the Bureau Aegis Tactical Police
Department. Leveraging poor definitions around
the remit and responsibilities of the Section,
the task force set about creating a flexible and
nuanced array of units, capable of police work,
special forces actions, and military style operations.
Significant resources were reallocated from several
THE ROLEPLAYING GAME
Bureaus in order to support this restructure, and
the money poured into technology, equipment,
and research and development. Much of this was
hidden from scrutiny as classified and coordinated
through Bureau Toth and ALEPH.
SWORDFOR quickly grew to be a force to be
reckoned with. While not as numerous as the
armies of other nations, they are elite, built around
the principles of cross-discipline training, and
supported by high-end and specifically designed
technology developed to extend and support
each unit’s goals and function. A key part of this
restructure was the founding of the Starmada,
giving SWORDFOR an independence and mobility
it had previously lacked. Taking technologies
secured from corporations, seized in operations,
and purchased from member states, Section Spatha
used these technologies as the blueprints from
which their own designs would come. Section
Spatha includes a number of highly secure black
sites dedicated to research and development.
Many of these research facilities are located on
the military bases on Surt, one of the moons of
Muspelheim in the Concilium system, an area O-12
maintains under a shroud of secrecy. The object
of each unit in SWORDFOR is not to be the best
and most elite force in the Human Sphere, but to
operate to a clearly defined role, and excel in it.
To this end the technology developed by Section
Spatha is designed around the same principles.
Weapons and armour particularly are custom
designed for each unit and built to support and
extend that unit’s operational parameters. Section
Spatha decided early on to make extensive use
of high-end power armour to best protect the
section’s most limited resource, its soldiers. To this
day, the effectiveness and durability of the power
armours worn by soldiers of SWORDFOR represent
some of the best and most advanced systems to be
found in the Human Sphere.
GAMMA HEAVY ASSAULT UNITS
Universally regarded as the best lightweight power
armour on the market, the Siyah series is most
famously linked with the Asawira Regiment. Solid
and dependable, the Siyah series manages to
accommodate
Like its namesake, Bureau Aegis is proud to be a
shield for the denizens of the Human Sphere. But
as O-12's law enforcement branch knows all too
well, sometimes a shield isn't enough. Sometimes,
to truly protect means to go on the offensive. And
when the enemies of stability reject that shield,
then O-12 brings out its hammer — the Gamma
Heavy Assault Unit.
POWERED ARMOUR 53
 No one would mistake these ironclad warriors for a
peacekeeping unit, and to their credit, the Gamma
make no effort to present themselves as such. Their
modus operandi is delivering overwhelming force
at overwhelming speed.
Whether in psywar or a firefight, Gammas pride
themselves on being a force for order in the midst
of chaos, a voice that carries above the cacophony
of battle, delivering a strong, clear message:
mode, increasing the rate of fire of the heavy
machine gun or feuerbach the soldier is wielding.
The end result is a servo-powered armoured suit
that offers substantial physical protection and
can keep a soldier in fighting condition through
injuries that would cripple even the fittest. As strike
units, this armour offers the Gammas a significant
advantage over the enemy, allowing them to
deliver shock and overwhelming firepower while
withstanding a substantial onslaught.

“We tried to warn you. So now we do this the

hard way.”
GAMMA ARMOUR
GAMMA ARMOUR HEAD TORSO ARM LEG BTS
4 5 3 4 4
Gamma armour was purpose-built to support the
Gamma unit’s role in quick and total domination Qualities: Ammo Drum (6 Reloads for HMG or Feuerbach), Personal
during strike operations. The Gamma units mean Bioscanner(2 Doses of Serum), Power Armour 3, Suppression
business, and they mean to end it quickly and Stabilisers, Teseum Chopper
efficiently. Designed for flexibility and power,
RESTRICTION COST TARIFF MAINTENANCE
Gamma armour was conceived to be sturdy
5 (O-12 4) 15+5§ T4 2
with heavy armoured plates offering significant
protection. In addition, O-12 engineers developed
a completely new automedical system. As well
as offering the usual life support systems, the SUPPRESSION STABILISERS
automedical systems of the Gamma Armour include Combining over-enhanced synthetic muscles with
a number of injectors to deliver carefully measured recoil calibration and dedicated machine learning,
doses of adrenaline and other chemicals allowing the Gamma suit allows its wearer to expend a
a soldier to continue fighting at peak efficiency Reload for their HMG or Feuerbach and gain twice
even if they have suffered significant trauma. Well- the benefits. This can only be done once per attack.
protected compartments in the backpack store Any additional Reloads fired do not get these
hundreds of rounds of ammunition, and the auto- benefits, and these benefits do not allow characters
feed is capable of ramping up into suppression to roll more than 5d20.

54 Chapter 2

PANOCEANIA
Power armour as a viable and effective tool
of war underwent a resurgence during the
NeoColonial Wars, when Yu Jing first demonstrated
the devastating potential of servo-powered
armour. PanOceania was quick to respond, first by
reverse-engineering recovered pieces of Yu Jingese
technology, and then funnelling massive amounts
of resources to military technology corporations
to design better and more powerful versions of
their own. Technologically advanced, wealthy, and
with a large interstellar empire to draw from, it
wasn’t long before the investment paid off, and
whatever advantage Yu Jing had briefly enjoyed
was reversed. Among the corporations to take
the lead in the development of PanOceania’s
response to the Yu Jingese innovation are modern
giants of the weapons industry, including Moto.
Tronica, Omnia Research, and WarTechWorks Inc.
These companies forged the path through which
PanOceania would come to dominate the industry
of power armour development and manufacture.
Indeed, throughout the Human Sphere, whether in
use by soldiers of PanOceanian Military Complex
or by mercenary groups, corporate security, or even
by other nations under licence from PanOceanian
corporations, it is estimated that a massive 67% of
all in-service power armours have been developed
or manufactured in PanOceania. Considering the
number of other nations, organisations, and groups
that make extensive use of power armour, this is a
significant market share.
Such a large and well-developed industry with an
extensive network of legal and less-legal financial
ties throughout the Human Sphere requires a
significant input of resources. Chief among the raw
materials is Teseum, and the PanOceanian Military
Complex and the hypercorporations that feed it
have a long history of exploiting resource sites like
Dawn to maintain the flow of this precious metal.
Ongoing efforts to stymie and block Ariadnan
influence in the courts and houses of O-12 is
just the tip of the iceberg. Other efforts include
political pressure, trade embargoes, sanctions, and
the subtle manipulation of local media to influence
the social and political states of various cross-
sections of Ariadnan society. All these efforts are
aimed to sow disunity, distrust in national authority,
to weaken the current political structure, and to
manipulate individuals’ attitudes in order to shift
the social narrative towards one where the hope
for economic salvation can come through trade
with PanOceania. It is a complex economic war
THE ROLEPLAYING GAME
that PanOceania is fighting, and it is being waged
on multiple fronts in defiance of O-12’s ongoing
efforts to prevent it from happening.
While other nations excel in highly specific areas,
such as Haqqislam presiding as the preeminent
developers of automedical systems, PanOceania
instead focus on the design of armour that is high
quality across the board, whatever the need. It may
not be as market leading in one or two specialised
areas, but for an all-round solution, PanOceanian
manufactured power armour just cannot be beaten.
For the PanOceanian Military Complex, this makes
a lot of sense. Spread across six primary planets,
hundreds of moons, thousands of asteroids, and
an order of magnitude more orbitals and space
stations, PanOceania needs to have a flexible
and functional response whatever environment
demands. Specialising too heavily in one or two
specific areas and lacking in others limits the field
of deployment. PanOceania strives to be the best,
naturally, but does so pragmatically.
Corporations that specialise in military hardware
are many and are spread throughout PanOceania.
Often these corporations have a long-standing
relationship with specific units, as sort of patron
or sponsor, and this relationship is both serious
business and genuinely mutually beneficial. Units
are provided communications channels through
which they can supply important feedback on
their needs and the successes or shortcomings
of the technology they are issued. This helps the
corporation refine and develop their equipment
and means that units have access to continually
evolving technological solutions that reflect
their service history and operational duties.
One of the most renowned of these corporate
patron-client relationships is between Omnia
Research and Creation and the Orc Troops. This
relationship is steeped in so much history and
mutual interdependence that Omnia use Orc
Troop successes and imagery in their marketing,
and Omnia Research and Creation logos are even
found in Orc recruitment material. Corporations
that operate these patron-client relationships with
units do so with the full blessing of the Military
Complex. Not only is it good for the units, it is
good for the economy, and good for the soldiers.
Corporations offer employment opportunities to
former members of “their” units, often in security,
but retraining programmes are also available for
soldiers who want a change of pace or have been
injured in the line of duty.
POWERED ARMOUR 55
 ORC COMBAT ARMOUR
Refined over more than twenty years of patron-
client relationship between Omnia Research
and Creation and the Orc Troops, ORC Combat
Armour is a highly effective, all-around solution
suited to almost any environment. Orc Troops
are a multipurpose heavy infantry, and as such
often form the hard-hitting core of any operation,
whether assault or defence. As a result, the ORC
Combat Armour has to be reliable, durable, and
capable to making computational adjustments
based on environmental data. This flexibility makes
the ORC Combat Armour one of the most successful
pieces of military kit in the PanOceanian armoury.
It may not be the best, but it is the most adaptable.
Any environment, from the jungles of Paradiso to
conflicts in zero-gravity, Orc Troops have served
in it, and ORC Combat Armour has been adjusted,
reprogrammed, and refined to better suit it. If
one needed a better example of how ingrained
corporate PanOceania is to the Military Complex,
one need look no further than the Orc Troops,
whose very name comes from an acronym drawn
on their patron name. Orc Troops are a walking
advertisement for the success and functionality of
ORC Combat Armour, so much so that a sizeable
portion of the corporations revenue comes from
associated merchandise, a percentage of which
is fed directly back into the Orc Troops, further
strengthening the ongoing relationship.
Offering strong physical protection, a solid
biotechnological shield, as well as an operating
system designed and refined through tens of
thousands of front-line combat service and
feedback, ORC Combat Armour is both effective
and iconic. It is little wonder that the pared-down
version of ORC Combat Armour is one of Omnia
Research and Creation’s best-selling private
defence solutions.
ORC COMBAT ARMOUR
HEAD TORSO ARM LEG
4 5 3 3
Qualities: Power Armour 3, Vac Suit
RESTRICTION COST TARIFF
4 (PanOceania 3) 13+4§ T3
56 Chapter 2
Civilian knockoffs, often called Goblin Suits, seldom
include the full experience of military models and
trade Power Armour 3 for Comms. Very rare versions
have Power Armour 1 though these often cost as
much as the full military version.
MOBILITY ARMOUR
A product of Omnia Research and Creation, and
at Joan of Arc’s insistence made available to
carefully vetted Father-Knights, Mobility Armour
is dangerous to use unless the wearer is carefully
trained and in peak physical condition. Add +3
complication range to all Acrobatics tests if the
wearer does not have at least three Acrobatics
Talents, an Agility of 13 or more, and a Brawn of
12 or more.
Mobility Armour is not just highly effective, it is
also the armour series that kicked off a revolution
in power armour visual design. The first three
series of Mobility Armour boasted a top-class visual
design team led by Ally Glühend, famed futurist,
Maya personality, and fashion designer. This visual
design team put together by Omnia was given
the dual goals of creating something that exuded
a sense of power and threat and hearkened back
to the history and legend of the knights of old.
With the Mobility Armour series, they managed to
create something truly special. Each knightly order
has its own unique spin on the same themes and
core design, and each knight regardless of order
strides into battle wearing something iconic — a
highly advanced defensive armour to be sure, but
something that radiates an aura of danger, and
draws directly on thousands of years of martial
superiority.
MOBILITY ARMOUR
BTS HEAD TORSO ARM LEG BTS
4 3 4 2 3 3
Qualities: Power Armour 1
MAINTENANCE RESTRICTION COST TARIFF MAINTENANCE
4 (PanOceania 3,
3 10+3§ T3 3
Military Orders 2)
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

SUBMONDO should have been destroyed due to manufacturing

While many of the most powerful Submondo
groups either make use of or operate their
own mercenary forces, more often than not the
muscle required to defend and impose the will
of a criminal organisation are handpicked from
loyal members who, it is hoped, can’t be swayed
by the prospect of a wage increase. For the
most important of the muscle, power armour
is an essential component of their ability to
project threat. Power armours worn by criminal
organisations naturally reflect the organisation’s
financial capabilities and their intended purpose.
If they are involved in aggressive assault actions,
piracy, or robbery against hard targets, they
will equip themselves accordingly if they have
access to the resources to allow them to do so.
Different organisations use power armour to make
a statement, and suits may be embellished or
decorated to project a sense of identity or threat, or
to disguise identity.
faults, were listed as stolen, written off as stock
loss in accidents, or tagged as already in service
with some military unit elsewhere in the Human
Sphere. Corporations are most definitely and
directly involved in the traffic of power armour.
For many of these unscrupulous corporations, the
opportunities offered by selling illegally means a
wider market for their technology and therefore a
bigger pay day, and many of them end up getting
paid twice, either as tax breaks through write offs,
or selling to military contracts and underdelivering,
then selling the missing pieces off again to less
legal buyers. There are multiple Bureau Noir and
Aegis investigations into the paths through which
military technologies, like power armour, make their
way onto the black market, but while evidence is
compelling, no one has yet been brought to justice.
The market continues to flourish.

More interesting than the role that power armour

plays in use by Submondo groups, is the role
played by Submondo groups in the theft, sale, and
resale of power armour across the Human Sphere.
Generally, access to military grade hardware is
illegal, heavily policed, and even more heavily
restricted. Submondo groups perform a key
role in the trafficking and sale of power armour.
Sometimes stolen or looted from battlefields,
but more often than not, power armours are
accessed through tiny shell companies laundering
technology on behalf of the corporations that own
them (though tracing this ownership is next to
impossible).

Submondo groups, truth be known, are a vital

cog in the economic success of a number of key
weapons manufactures throughout the Human
Sphere, though tracing the exchange of money
and goods from manufacturer to black market
is an exercise in trying to find a path through a
labyrinthine mess of interconnected businesses,
families, exchanges, and thefts. Many of the power
armours that make their way onto the black
market match the serial numbers of suits that

POWERED ARMOUR 57

HISTORY OF
CORRUPTION?
It has long been claimed by the
enemies of the StateEmpire
that the structure of the military
industrial complex is rife
with nepotism and corruption.
In-house development by the
state, followed by the awarding
of manufacturing rights to
selected companies is a process
that has drawn some criticism
internationally, and, as we
have recently heard, at home.
Such claims are nothing more
than the parroting of feeble
international propaganda, which
again falls to stereotypical
claims of Yu Jingese corruption
and scandal. It is known to
all within the StateEmpire
that any company can register
with the StateEmpire Army
as a candidate for military
manufacturing contracts.
However, these contracts are
not awarded like stickers in a
PanOceanian classroom. Not
everyone will get one. There are
stringent and high standards
involved, levels of security
expected, and a demonstrated
capacity to meet the needs
of any awarded contracts. Yes,
many of the same companies
are awarded contracts. They
have a long history of serving
the StateEmpire and excel in
doing so. Contracts are awarded
on the grounds of merit, and
merit alone. To suggest that the
process is anything less than
merit based or sits under some
shroud of corrupting influence
is to besmirch the StateEmpire.
We should always pick the best
and brightest, the most capable
and likely to succeed. There is no
corruption here, just yet another
pathetic attempt at propaganda
repeated by sore losers who
demonstrate by their sorry
whining why they were deemed
unfit to serve the StateEmpire.
—Lin Yan,
spokesperson for Yungang
Industries, in answering a question
about claims of corruption in the
contract process for the Gōnglu
Series of power armour.
58 Chapter 2
YU JING
First to develop reliable and effective power
armour for the modern battlefield, Yu Jing is still a
key leader in the manufacture and advancement
of this technology. From the armour worn by the
Crane Rank Imperial Agents, to the deadly Wu Ming,
or the heavy weapons specialists of the Yān Huo,
Yu Jingese power armour is well constructed and
places significant design emphasis on mobility
without compromising protection. Indeed, Yu
Jingese designed power armour, almost always
the product of the Department of Military Support
Technologies Development, is some of the most
consistently solid pieces of design to be found
anywhere in the Human Sphere. Coated with an
ablative ceramic exterior and supported by a tight
weave of protective layers beneath, the armours
that come from the Department of Military Support
Technologies Development are perfectly designed
to support the roles and responsibilities of the
soldiers who wear them.
Deeply stratified along social lines, the Yu Jing
StateImperial Army ensures that its best and
brightest have access to armour that will allow
them to execute their missions to the highest
possible standard. While all Yu Jingese armour is
of a good quality, the most prestigious units, and
the units that are supplied with the best that Yu
Jing can make, are undoubtedly the heavy infantry.
Destined to carry the banner of the StateEmpire
into the thickest of frays, the heavy infantry of
the Yu Jing is without parallel. Highly trained,
unbelievably fit, and equipped with the finest
examples of Yu Jingese innovation and design
on offer, the heavy infantry of the Imperial Army
is rightly feared and respected. These forces are
celebrated for their high level of training and
skill in close combat, and this is as true of the
heavy infantry as it is of the lightly protected
Shaolin monks. To ensure that the capabilities of
a soldier are not compromised by bulk and that
their movements in armour are as free flowing and
agile as without, the power armours developed
by Yu Jing make a special emphasis on freedom
of motion. Servos, actuators, and gears, alongside
seriously well-designed articulated joints, are
all carefully designed to boost strength, reaction,
and range of motion. Every intention serves to
increase the power and speed of any strike made
in close combat, helping solidify the reputation
of Yu Jingese soldiers being unparalleled close-in
fighters. That the exoskeleton is also powerful
enough to allow the heavy infantry to make use
of some truly terrifying ranged weapons is icing
on the cake. While thousands of hours have been
poured into the careful and considered design of
making armour that will boost the capabilities of
the soldiers wearing it, not as much could be said
about the level of comfort provided by Yu Jingese
designs. Power armour created and developed
for the army of the StateEmpire must make its
compromises somewhere, and that somewhere
is in comfort. Trusting to the strong and hardy
nature of those who serve the StateEmpire over
the soft trappings required of lesser nations, the
StateEmpire Army expects its soldiers to endure.
A key part of the reason that sacrifices have been
made to comfort lies with the scale of production.
Once an armour has been conceived by the
Department of Military Support Technologies
Development and pre-production models have
passed all the requisite field tests, the technical
data is passed to a suitable military contractor.
These manufacturers will, in turn, outfit one or
more production facilities (usually with some state
sponsorship), and the suits will then go into mass
production. The capacity of a power armour to fit
the requirements of mass production is a design
choice that limits the degree to which a soldier
can have a suit that is custom fitted to their body.
While the suits are designed to accommodate a
range of body sizes and shapes, they are far less
custom tailored than that of many other nations.
HSIEN WARRIORS
Hsien, or Immortals, are a prestigious and elite
unit rewarded for their skill and bravery with
service as security soldiers to the emperor. Often
sent as small detachments, fire-teams, or even
individually to important conflicts, the Hsien are
the embodiment of Imperial will, and execute
their duties with daring and deadly skill. Such
a prestigious unit requires some of the best
protection, and the Gōnglu armour worn by the
Hsien is some of the finest in the Human Sphere.
Fine layers of protection combine to create a
weave that is highly effective, and the articulated
joints and plating allows the Hsien to excel at
what they do best, close combat. There are few
armours available on the market that allow such
high levels of precise and free movement as the
Gōnglu series. Indeed, it is carefully and cunningly
designed to extend and enhance a soldier’s speed,
strength, and reaction times and does so subtly,
making the wearer feel more capable and powerful
as if the armour is an extension of themselves.
GOŌNGLUǛ ARMOUR
HEAD TORSO ARM LEG BTS
3 4 3 3 3
Qualities: Power Armour 2, Kinematika, Moral Bonus +2,
Multispectral Visor
RESTRICTION COST TARIFF MAINTENANCE
4 (Yu Jing 3) 10+3§ T3 4
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

YĀAN HUO QIÁNGDÙ ARMOUR

Brandishing an armament more often seen
HEAD TORSO ARM LEG BTS
in armoured vehicle divisions, the Yān Huo, or
3 4 3 3 3
Invincibles, are a heavy support fire regiment that
prides itself on the capacity to deliver enough Qualities: Heavy Lifting Frame 2, Power Armour 2(1)
high-powered ordnance to level a small country.
In order to carry the weapons mounted on their RESTRICTION COST TARIFF MAINTENANCE
armour and survive the recoil, the Yān Huo wear the 3 13+3§ T2 3
specially designed Qiángdù series power armour.
Qiángdù armour is not the most effective when it HEAVY LIFTING FRAME X
comes to stopping a bullet, but that is not what it’s A suit of power armour with a Heavy Lifting
designed for. Instead, the Qiángdù series provides a Frame sacrifices the usual explosive power of an
small weapons platform. It is essentially a powerful exoskeleton and ties its strength to the carriage
exoskeleton with armour plating, built to carry and of oversized materials. While the suit generally
withstand the shock of firing some of the largest performs as if its Exoskeleton rating was half what
man-portable weapons carried by soldiers in the it actually is, the lifting capacity of such a suit is
Human Sphere. There are some who might read equal to an Exoskeleton with a rating equal to the
the design philosophy behind the Qiángdù and Power Armour and Heavy Lifting Frame combined.
laugh at the improbability of such an idea, but a Regardless of rating, this allows the suit to utilise
cursory glance at the service history and combat Unwieldy weapons one handed and utilise TAG
effectiveness of the Yān Huo is enough to prove weapons as if they were Two-handed weapons.
their worth to even the most dogged naysayer.
The fact is the Yān Huo are frightening. They are a
walking artillery section capable of massive and
violent destruction. Qiángdù armour is a triumph of
exoskeleton design, heavily reinforced, and capable
of carrying the most destructive weapons that
Yungang Industries can produce.

POWERED ARMOUR 59
 HAC TAO SPECIAL UNIT
With an exterior coating that provides elite
thermo-optical camouflage, the Gui, or Ghost,
armour developed for the Hac Tao Special Unit
is well named. Dense layers of protective weave
sit beneath the exterior armoured shell. The suit
itself is capable of reducing thermal and biological
signatures to nothing and refracts light to make
the soldier appear little more than a blurred shape
(if they are seen at all). Gui armour also boasts
sound dampeners, shock absorbers, and special
gel-soled boots, ensuring that the movement
and passage of the Hac Tao is absolutely silent.
Like all power armours manufactured by Yu Jing,
mobility has been a key design goal, and the Gui
provides a solid boost to the physical capabilities
of the soldier wearing it without restricting the
range of movement. A suite of sensors pour data
into software granting the Hac Tao an almost
superhuman reaction time. This manifests through
a subtle surge in power that doesn’t compromise
the thermo-optical camouflage but allows the
soldier to close with an enemy or dodge an attack
with terrifying speed and effectiveness. Gui armour
is heavily restricted, and one of the few suits of
armour that is manufactured by the StateEmpire
Army contractors on a personalised level with each
solider custom fitted with their own suit.
GUĬI ARMOUR
HEAD TORSO ARM LEG
3 4 3 3
Qualities: Power Armour 2, Kinematika, Thermo-Optic Camouflage
RESTRICTION COST TARIFF MAINTENANCE
5 13+3§ T2
60 Chapter 2
SÙ-JIÀN IMMEDIATE ACTION UNIT
Blurring the lines between TAG Remote and
powered armour, the Sù-Jiàn is a remotely operated
suit of heavy combat armour and considered the
pinnacle of the StateEmpire’s military science. This
transformative device grants its remote operator
TAG-like firepower in an infantry sized package.
With more and more TAGs favouring remote
operation, the Sù-Jiàn is touted by its supporters as
the evolution of both infantry and TAGs alike.
SÙ-JIÀN IMMEDIATE ACTION
UNIT
ENCLOSED, GROUND, HANDS, REMOTE PRESENCE,
WALKER
ATTRIBUTES
Scale Speed Brawn
0/1 3/1 14 (+1)
DETAILS
Max. Passengers Impact
0 2+6§ (Knockdown)
DEFENCES
Structure 11 Firewall 10
Armour 5 BTS 6
GEAR: Climbing Plus, Kinematika
MOUNTED WEAPONS:
• Spitfire: Range M, 1+5§ damage, Burst 3, 2H, Spread 2,
Unsubtle
BTS • Light Flamethrower: Range C, 1+4§ damage, Burst 1, 2H,
3 Incendiary 3, Munition, Terrifying 2, Torrent
• Panzerfaust: Range L, 2+5§ damage, Burst 1, 2H, Munition,
Piercing 2, Spread 1, Unsubtle, Vicious 2
• Heavy Pistol: Range R/C, 2+4§ damage, Burst 1, Unbalanced,
3 Piercing 2, Unforgiving 1, Vicious 1
• Blades: 1+7§ damage, Concealed 1, Non‑Hackable, Subtle 2,
Unforgiving 1
SPECIAL ABILITIES:
• Protean: The Sù-Jiàn can shift from one form to another as a
Free Action and make Reactions with the Close Combat skill for
-1 Heat, to a minimum of 0.
o Combat Form: As a humanoid combatant, the Sù-Jiàn
gains a bonus d20 on Ballistics and Close Combat
tests, has a Scale of 1, and a Speed of 1.
o Mobility Form: In animalistic, swift, low-slung forms,
the Sù-Jiàn ignores Difficult or Hazardous Terrain, has
a Scale of 0, and a Speed of 3.
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

ARMOUR TABLE
Armour Soak
Armour Qualities and Equipment Restriction Cost Tariff
Head Torso Arms Legs BTS
Hidden Armour 3, Locational Beacon,
Recreation Garb 2 1 2 3 3 4 (ALEPH 3, Recreations 1) 11 + 3§ T2
Stealth Repeater, Recorder
Sophotect Armour 2 1 2 2 2 See Description 4 (ALEPH 3, Sophotects 1) 9+2§ T1
Hoplite Powered Combat
4 5 3 3 4 Power Armour 3, Repeater 5 (ALEPH Only) 13+6§ T2
Armour
Armoured Clothing 0 1 1 1 0 Hidden 2 2 6+1§ T1
Ballistic Vest 0 2 0 0 0 Hidden 1 2 5+2§ T1
Crashsuit 3 3 3 3 0 Disposable 1 5+1§ T0
Gruntsuit 1 2 2 2 1 Exoskeleton 1, Heavy 2 9+2§ T1
Hard Hat 1 0 0 0 0 – 0 2+1§ T0
Heavy Combat Armour 3 4 2 3 2 Heavy 3 10+2§ T2
Light Combat Armour 1 2 1 1 1 – 2 7+1§ T2
Medium Combat Armour 2 3 2 2 3 – 3 8+1§ T2
ModCoat, Long 0 1 1 1 0 Hidden 2, -1D to DIY tests 2 6+2§ T3
ModCoat, Short 0 1 1 0 0 Hidden 3, -1D to DIY tests 2 6+1§ T2
Powered Combat Armour 4 5 3 3 3 Power Armour 3 4 13+2§ T3
Powered Combat Armour Exoskeleton 3, Heavy Armour,
4 5 3 3 3 3 12+2§ T1
(Ariadnan) Self-Repairing
PPE 0 2 2 1 1 – 1 5+1§ T0
Sports Padding 1 1 1 1 0 – 0 3+2§ T0
Subdermal Grafts 1 2 1 1 0 Self-Repairing 2 9+2§ T1
XO Suit 2 3 2 2 1 Adapted[any], Exoskeleton 1, Heavy 2 9+2§ T1
Exoskeleton 3, Heavy Armour,
Buffalo Powered Armour 4/3 5/4 3/2 3/2 3/0 5 12+23§ T3 (Ariadna 0)
Self-Repairing
Bandolier, Teseum Knife, Non-hackable,
Cherkesska 2 4 3 3 1 3 (Rodina 2) 13+3§ T3 (Ariadna 0)
Hard to alter
Dog-Bowl Armour 2 2 1 1 0 Non-Hackable 2 (Ariadna 1) 8+3§ T2
Non-Hackable (adds 1+1§, Parry 1,
Duelling bracers 0 0 2 0 0 3 (Caledonia 2) 8+2§ (pair) T4 (Ariadna 0)
Vicious 1 to Unarmed strikes)
Métros Uniform 0 1 0 0 0 Concealed 1 2 (Merovingia 1) 7+1§ T2 (Ariadna 0)
Mormaer Armour 3 4 3 3 1 Non-Hackable (+2 Morale for Caledonians) 4 (Caledonia 3) 14+4§ T4 (Ariadna 0)
Exoskeleton 3, Heavy Armour,
Ratnik Powered Armour 4/3* 6/4* 4/2* 4/2* 3/0* 5
Self-Repairing
Non-Hackable, (Counts as a Stealth Kit
USARF Fighting Uniform 1 2 1 1 0 2 (USAriadna 1) 7+2§ T2
in one environment)
Ad-Qali Armour 2 2 2 2 3/0AX See Description 2 6+2X§ 2
Khafin 2 3 3 3 1 Power Armour 1, Concealed 2 4 7+7§ 3 (Haqqislam 0)
Najjarun Engineers Qualities: Engineering Kit (also confers
1 1 1 1 0 2 8+2§ T2
Uniform Expert 1 and Comms )
Qualities: Adaptation (All terrestrial
Siyah Light Power Armour 3 4 3 3 6 environments), Power Armour 1, 2 13+2§ T2
Regeneration Augmentation

POWERED ARMOUR 61
ARMOUR TABLE
Armour Soak
Armour Qualities and Equipment Restriction Cost Tariff
Head Torso Arms Legs BTS
Qualities: Adaptation (Zero-G), Comms, Personal
Spar Armour 2 3 2 2 3 3 9+2§ T2
Bioscanner (1 Dose of Serum), Vac Suit
J-Tabby Socks - - - 1 - See Description 2 (Nomads 1) 3+3§ T2 (Nomads T0)
Krab gauntlet, Ka-3 - - 2 - 1 Bioscanner, Heavy Armour, MediKit 3 (Nomads 1) 5+2§ T2
Krab gauntlet, N3V - - 2 - 1 Heavy Armour, Powered Multitool 3 (Nomads 1) 5+2§ T2
Krab gauntlet, VaNk - - 3 - 1 Heavy Armour, Panzerfaust 3 (Nomad 2) 9+2§ T2
Lizard Pilot’s Suit 2 1 1 1 - — 3 (Nomad 2) 7+3§ T2
MaiSa Armour 1 2 2 1 2 Combat Jump Pads, Grip pads 3 (Nomads 1) 7+3§ T2
Concealed 2, Non-Hackable, Self-Repairing, 5 (Nomads 4,
Spektr Armour 1 1 1 1 3 9+6 § T2
Thermo-Optic Camouflage Tunguska 3)
Power Armour 2, Personal Bioscanner (1 dose T2 (T4 if present-
Ognyena Power Armour 2 4 2 2 3 4(Riot Girls 2) 10+6§
of Serum) ing as male)
Peregrin Armour 2 2 2 2 3 Combat Jump Pack, Non-Hackable, Vac Suit 3 (Nomad 2) 8+2§ T3
Qualities: Adaptation (Zero-G), Power Armour 3,
Protega Power Armour 4 5 3 3 4 3 (Nomad 2) 13+6§ T2
Vac Suit
Ammo Drum (6 reloads for HMG or Feuer-
bach), Personal Bioscanner (2 doses of Serum),
Gamma Armour 4 5 3 4 4 5 (O-12 4) 15+5§ T4
Power Armour 3, Suppression Stabilisers, Teseum
Chopper
Non-Hackable, Razor Advanced Camouflage
Razor Battle Suit 1 2 1 1 3 5(O-12 Only) 12+5§ T4
Technologies
Kamau Aquatic Armour 1 2 1 1 5 Aquatic , Non-Hackable 3(Varuna 2) 10+2§ T2
ORC Civilian Armour
2 3 2 2 3 Comms 3(PanOceania 2) 8+2§ T2
(Goblin Suit)
ORC Civilian Armour with
2 3 2 2 3 Comms, Exoskeleton 4 13+2§ T3
Exoskeleton
ORC Combat Armour 4 5 3 3 4 Power Armour 31 Vac Suit 4(PanOceania 3) 13+4§ T3
4 (PanOceania 3,
Mobility Armour 3 4 2 3 3 Power Armour 1 10+3§ T3
Military Orders 2)
Pressure Suit - 1 - - 1 Immunity to Pressure 1 5 -
Strides - - 1 2 1 Exoskeleton 1, Heavy Armour 3 (PanOceania 1) 6+2§ T2
Power Armour 2, Kinematika, Moral bonus +2,
Gōnglǜ Armour 3 4 3 3 3 4 (Yu Jing 3) 10+3§ T3
Multispectral Visor
Power Armour 2, Kinematika, Thermo-Optic
Guĭ Armour 3 4 3 3 3 5 15+5§ T4
Camouflage
Qiángdù Armour 3 4 3 3 3 Heavy Lifting Frame 2, Power Armour 2(1), 3 13+3§ T2
4 (Imperial 3,
Crane Armour 3 4 2 2 6 Kinematika 11+2§ T1
Crane rank 1)
Heavy Armour, Hidden Armour 1, Location
Iron Turtle Suit 3 3 3 3 3 3 (Yu Jing 2) 11+3§ T2
Beacon 1
Sù-Jiàn Immediate Action Non-Hackable, (Counts as a Stealth Kit in one
1 2 1 1 0 2 (USAriadna 1) 7+2§ T2
Unit environment)
Iron Turtle Suit 5 5 5 5 6 Climbing Plus, Kinematika 5(Yu Jing 4) 15+3§ T2
3 (Yu Jing 4, JSA
TF Coat - 2 2 1 2 Hidden Armour 1 9+3§ T4
2, Bosozuku 1)

62 Chapter 2

CHAPTER 3
ARMOUR INTEGRATED
TECHNOLOGIES
Considerable advances have come from military
research and development into TAG and power
armour technology. While not every suit of
protective gear has the power or exoskeleton
to afford the soldier inside it the full security of
powered armour, many of the technologies have
had a huge impact on the development and
sophistication of lighter armour. Developments in
automedical and life support systems, the structure
of armour plating and weave, the software used
to run full powered armour, and a host of other
small but important details have allowed for the
construction of a variety of armours perfectly suited
to specific military roles. While lighter armours
are a far cry from the tour de force of full powered
suits, the selective application of technologies that
have come from power armour development has
allowed for some truly special pieces of kit.
Most units don’t necessitate the full defensive
potential offered by power armour, the armour they
wear needs to be lighter and suited to a specific
role, or they need to be produced more cheaply and
en masse. Whatever the reason, these armoured
suits all have one thing in common. They would
never have existed in their current form without
technological developments made in the advances
of powered armour.
KAMAU AQUATIC ARMOUR
While a vast majority of the power armours
developed by corporations throughout the
Human Sphere are designed to excel in general
applications, spin off technologies integrated into
smaller suits for specific purposes allow these
technologies to refine in unexpected ways. There
are few places in the Human Sphere where this is
more needed than on the water world of Varuna.
Varuna, home to the Helots, is also home to the
domestic terrorist organisation known as Libertos.
The Helots of Libertos, intent on eschewing the
benefits offered by patriation with PanOceania,
instead seek to wreak destruction, and undermine,
through terrorist activities, any efforts at a peaceful
union of the Helots with PanOceania. As an aquatic
species, all attempts to deal with the Libertos
is immediately placed at a disadvantage. While
TAGs like the Cutter series are able to extend
significant firepower where needed, a smaller, more
clandestine, or deft touch is often required. Enter
THE ROLEPLAYING GAME
the Kamau Amphibious Intervention Teams, the
core of the Fast Intervention Division, and lead unit
in the Blue Sea anti-terror operations on Varuna.
In order to execute their duties, and confront the
Libertos threat head on, a new variety of armour
was required, one that offered a level of protection
from aggressive action, but more importantly,
allowed the soldiers of the Kamau Intervention
Teams to take the war to the enemy. Kamau Aquatic
Armour was the winning tender, designed by
Moto.Tronica, who had learned much from their
Cutter TAGs, and in concert with ScubaTechnics,
a Varuna-based corporation, it answered all the
questions posed by executing a war against the
Libertos and more.
Light and with an excellent biotechnological shield,
the Kamau Aquatic Armour is particularly special
due to the adaptations created for operations in
and under the waves of Varuna. With an inbuilt and
cleverly designed swim-bladder that is sandwiched
between layers at the rear of the armour, the
oxygen filters, which can pull breathable air from
the water like gills, can flood this layer with air
or water allowing a soldier to float or sink with
significant control. Added to this are powerful
jets positioned at the front and on the backpack,
allowing the Kamau speed and agility under the
water. The Kamau Aquatic Armour is a standout
design and has allowed the Kamau Intervention
Teams to make significant progress in dealing with
the threat of the Libertos terrorist organisation.
KAMAU AQUATIC ARMOUR
HEAD TORSO ARM LEG BTS
1 2 1 1 1
Qualities: Aquatic
RESTRICTION COST TARIFF MAINTENANCE
3 (Varuna 2) 10+2§ T2 3
Aquatic
Aquatic suits have advanced systems capable of protecting the
wearer from oceanic depths and capable of pulling oxygen from the
water itself. Aquatic suits count as Adapted (Ocean) though they offer
twice the benefit of that quality.
ARMOUR INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGIES 63

RAZOR
ADVANCED
CAMOUFLAGE
TECHNOLOGIES
ADVANCED
THERMO-OPTIC
CAMOUFLAGE
In addition to the standard
effects of Thermo-Optic
camouflage, this advanced
technology allows the wearer
to project and alternative
image and the thermographic
signature of a variety of
lifeforms including Human,
Morat, Shasvastii, and Tohaa.
SILHOUETTE
DISGUISE KIT
The Razor suit can be adjusted
with a Standard Action to
present a larger body shape.
This flex can change the body
shape and size of the wearer,
increasing their height and
general physique by up to 10%
of their body-mass overall.
The suit cannot flex to make
the wearer smaller. Combined
with Advanced Thermo-Optic
camouflage, this gives the
wearer +1d20 on Stealth tests
where the character seeks to
disguise themselves.
64 Chapter 3
PEREGRIN ARMOUR
Specialising in infiltration and exfiltration missions
in what can only be described as the most extreme
of circumstances, the Hellcats are famously laissez-
faire at the same time as being famously daring
to the point of insanity. Operational insertion
usually means airborne deployment, dropping
the Hellcats into the thickest action with only the
equipment they carry with them. As well as existing
in a constant state of readiness, the Hellcats also
ensure they maintain their gear in peak condition.
They carry all weapons and ammunition for the
very worst of expected outcomes, and the most
significant part of their kit is their Peregrine
armour. Given their role and airborne insertion,
the armour designed for the Hellcats had to
accommodate a large range of pressures and
requirements. Protective without being restrictive,
Peregrine armour was developed as the best
solution given the operational parameters of the
unit. Too many of the heavy body plates present
in something like the Protega armour used by
the Mobile Brigada posed problems for high
impact drops.
Lighter than many forms of power armour, the
Peregrine series eschews the heavy plating and
protection in favour of a lighter and more flexible
inner layer. Heavy elements are still utilised on
the trunk and head, with pauldrons to protect
the shoulders. Everywhere else is protected by a
multi-layered and flexible tightweave comprised
of a number of skins. One of these inner skins
includes a cushioning smart-gel that aids in
impact reduction during a high-altitude drop.
The tightweave is protective and unrestrictive,
designed to ensure that an uncomfortable landing
doesn’t force an inflexible armoured plate through
some vital organ. At the same time, it ensures the
soldier is protected as well as technology allows
when they hit the ground and find themselves
in the middle of a shit storm. All in all, the
Peregrine is a lesson in compromises. It is a piece
of equipment that is tailor made for a purpose
and achieves that purpose better than almost any
example on the market. All of the capabilities built
into the Peregrin are drawn from servos and shock
absorption technology for powered armour.
PEREGRIN ARMOUR
HEAD TORSO ARM LEG
2 2 2 2
Qualities: Combat Jump Pack, Vac Suit
RESTRICTION COST TARIFF MAINTENANCE
2 8+2§ T3
RAZOR BATTLE SUITS
Worn by soldiers of the Razor Reconnaissance Units,
these suits are more classified than the soldiers
who wear them, a fact that gains context when
you consider that the Razors don’t officially exist.
Razors are the most elite agents, highly decorated
and carefully selected from Bureaus Aegis and
Noir. Many Razor agents are officially deceased, but
whether they are former special forces or ex-Noir
undercover agents, the one thing they all have
in common is a scarily high level of aptitude and
training. Perfected to manage any deniable black-
ops from manhunts to assassinations, the Razors
are a myth and a terrifying reality rolled into one.
To aid their missions, O-12 engineers redeveloped
much of the technology used to minimise the
thermal signature and distinctive outlines of
powered armour. The outer layer of the Razor suit
operates like standard Thermo Optical Camouflage,
completely concealing any thermal or biometric
signature. The suit is also designed to have
mimetic properties, and can imitate the biometrics
and heat signatures of a range of pre-programmed
alternatives, including larger-bodied humans
down to small children and even Shasvastii, Morat,
and Tohaa. A visual examination of the wearer
won’t indicate anything out of the ordinary, but
a biometric or thermal scan will appear to show
something else entirely — a neat trick that can
cause an electronic observer to ignore them or
explode into panic mode. The suit is also capable
of flexing, changing the body shape and outline
of the wearer by up to 10% to assist in infiltration,
exfiltration, and to avoid identification. This flex
technology has shown to be surprisingly useful for
something that started as novel experiments on
the shock gel used to keep power armour joints
from breaking under pressure!
RAZOR BATTLE SUIT
HEAD TORSO ARM LEG BTS
1 2 1 1 3
Qualities: Razor Advanced Camouflage Technologies
RESTRICTION COST TARIFF MAINTENANCE
5 (O-12 only) 12+5§ T4 4
BTS
3
2

SPAR ARMOUR
A highly successful example of a unique
convergence of technologies is the Spar series of
armours developed by Istehkam Heavy Industries.
Often worn by Haqqislamite corsairs, Spar armour
is most famously associated with the Sekban Naval
Special Unit. With their distinctive, understated
military patterning, the Sekban and the Spar
armour they wear are indistinguishable and iconic.
Versions of the Spar worn by corsairs or sold
through private channels are typically flamboyantly
decorated. Armour ornamentation that even closely
resembles the Sekban pattern is banned and
falsifying it a punishable offence. Where some units
seek to announce themselves through distinctive
and loud colours and patterning, the Sekban, by
contrast, use a muted palette and design, an
understatement that exemplifies their ideology.
Designed specifically for operations in low- and
zero-gravity environments, the Spar series is
extremely well designed and highly protective. It
incorporates Istehkam Heavy Industries’ famously
advanced automedical and life support systems
redeveloped and miniaturised for this lighter
armour and is perfectly designed to complement
the operational environments and parameters of
the Sekban Naval Special Unit. Versions of the
Spar are even favoured among pirate crews and
THE ROLEPLAYING GAME
naval assault teams from independent mercenary
companies.
While none of the armours detailed above are
classed as powered armour, all of them represent
different ways the technologies developed for
powered armour have been refined, miniaturised,
and repurposed to fulfil specific needs. Without
the advent of powered armour in the NeoColonial
Wars, it is doubtful that any of these armours
would exist in the refined form they do. While it is
undeniable that technologies seeking to fill these
needs would have been attempted, the integrated
systems of life support, exoskeletal strength,
software developments, and strong but lightweight
armour systems that power armour requires have
fed a boom in military technologies across a
host of areas.
SPAR ARMOUR
HEAD TORSO ARM LEG
2 3 2 2
Qualities: Adaptation (Zero G), Comms, Personal Bioscanner
(1 dose of Serum), Vac Suit
RESTRICTION COST TARIFF MAINTENANCE
3 9+2§ T2 2 the scanner to deliver upon
ARMOUR INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGIES
PERSONAL
BIOSCANNER
The Personal Bioscanner is a
bioscanner that is dedicated
to the wearer of the Siyah suit.
Upon detecting significant
injury (1 Wound), it will deploy 1
capsule of serum in an attempt
to repair the injury. So long
as it has serum, the Personal
Bioscanner makes medicine
tests rolling 3d20 against a TN
10 (Focus 2). This includes all
bonuses, and once it has used
its second dose of serum, it will
contact a designated third party
to alert them.
A suitably technical character
(Tech 2+ & Medicine 1) can
recalibrate the bioscanner to
respond faster, acting as soon
BTS
as any physical damage has
3 been taken, or slower, acting on
the 2nd wound. A suitably crafty
medic might even swap out
the serum for any of a number
of chemical formulas and rig
quantronic command.
65
 CHAPTER 4
REMOTE ASSISTANCE
Unlike tightly controlled and regulated TAGs,
WHAT YOU’LL purchasing remotes manufactured in another
FIND IN THIS nation’s territory is common for civilians
CHAPTER and criminals alike. Many mercenary and
• Rules for upgrading remote hypercorporate remote teams deploy a blend of
chassis and limbs
different makes and models depending on use
• A comprehensive catalogue of case and budget, and every nation uses remotes
Human Sphere Remotes for non-military purposes. Most models are widely
available, albeit expensive, with cosmetic variations
to suit their target market’s aesthetics. That said, a
subset of advanced proprietary models, and nearly
all military configurations, require governmental
approval and licensing. Modding subcultures can
be even more insular and restrictive.
Beyond extensive use as military support units and
auxiliaries, PanOceania prioritises remotes’ use for
logistics: warehouse management, last-mile courier
delivery, and ubiquitous Mulebots for containerised
shipping. The hyperpower also leads the way
in remote work. The majority of agricultural,
construction, and heavy industry tasks are handled
via remotes piloted by office workers dozens or
hundreds of kilometres away.
The StateArmy prizes Yáoxiè (“remote weapon” in
Yujingyu) remotes not only as passive support or
defence, but as active combat units, the foundation
of unit composition. Remotes are also deliberately
placed keystones of Yu Jingese popular culture,
with starring roles in subsidised Mayacasts ranging
from serial dramas to REM-only Aristea! bouts
to children’s entertainment (and inevitable toy
tie-ins). Along with state-funded remote-modding
clubs, the place of the remotes in popular culture
ensures a steady supply of remote engineers and
pilots, and the expertise to create and use remotes
for any task.
Haqqislamite remotes are essential for
terraforming efforts and monitoring Bourak’s
vast frontier, and the remote lot is always
a Caravanserai highlight. Their designs are
straightforward, durable, weather-resistant, and
relatively inexpensive. Silk Lords eschew them
entirely, preferring the unhackable discretion of
human servants.
Nomad Nation remotes are as diverse and unusual
as their owners. Hand-crafted modifications render
their personal remotes difficult to compromise, and
the open-source versions they sell outsiders are
notoriously easy to modify and maintain.
66 Chapter 4
Ariadnan remotes are dead simple by modern
standards, but even easier to repair and
manufacture. Without LAIs or modern quantronics,
most can do little beyond basic navigation and
trajectory calculations, but local engineers are
actively working with galactic consultants to close
the gap, and Ariadnan remotes are popular “sleeper”
chassis for modders.
RULES CLARIFICATIONS
Where remote details, abilities, or pricing differ
from earlier publications, this chapter should be
considered the definitive source.
Adversary pilots use their Movement skill for
remote Movement or Piloting tests (including
stealth), and their Combat skill for ranged, close
combat, or melee attacks.
COMMON SPECIAL ABILITIES
Advanced Security X: This remote has a bonus +X
Morale and Security Soak when controlled by a
geist or its native LAI. This is occasionally written
as X/Y when there is a condition that enhances the
rating of this ability.
Advanced Sensors: With a successful Observation
(D2) or Analysis (D1) test, every character or NPC
within Medium range has its stealth state reduced
by one step for the remote and its allies.
Climber: Treats vertical surfaces as if they are
horizontal for the purposes of movement, granting
-2 difficulty on climbing Athletics tests.
Defensive Algorithms: Ranged attacks against this
remote are at +1 difficulty.
EOD: The remote can make face-to-face tests to
detect explosives at up to Medium range and gains
1 bonus Momentum on all related tests.
Fast (X Heat): For X Heat, this remote may move
within Medium range as a Free Action, or to a point
in Long range as a Minor Action. On paved roads
and similar uncluttered terrain, it also counts as
having a vehicle speed of 2.
Ghost-Config: Ordinary users can connect or
disconnect with a Minor Action. Posthumans can do
so as a Free Action for 1 Heat.

Hovering: This drone is incapable of real flight
but can lift itself over most obstacles and is hence
immune to most difficult and dangerous terrain as
well as most ground-based hazards.
Lumbering: Moves one fewer zone than normal
when making Movement Actions and cannot
move as a Free Action. It is incapable of moving at
vehicular speeds.
Passengers X: This drone is capable of transporting
X passengers. Neither passenger is required to pilot
the remote.
Remote: All remotes are Inured to Cold, Disease,
Poison, and Vacuum. For the purposes of vehicular
movement, they count as having a speed of 1
unless otherwise noted (see Lumbering).
Rugged: Tech tests to repair or upgrade are at -1
difficulty.
Sat-Lock: With a successful Hacking (D2) test
against a target within Medium range (even if
invisible, or in a stealth state), any ally can use a
weapon with the Speculative Fire Quality against
the target, ignoring the target’s Cover Soak and
without incurring the usual +1 difficulty.
Servant: If the Seize the Initiative Heat Spend is
used by an NPC paired with this remote, it activates
immediately after the NPC for no extra cost.
Quad-Legs: The remote gains a bonus d20 on
Athletics Reactions or tests to avoid being knocked
prone. In addition, it can move to a point within
Long range as a Minor Action. On paved roads and
similar uncluttered terrain, it also counts as having
a vehicle speed of 2.
Terrain Specialist (Terrain): This unit has specialist
software packages that allow it to extend the
paved roads ability of Fast. Terrain types the
remote can specialise in include jungle, urban,
mountainous, desert, or zero-g, among others. When
operating in this terrain type, treats all Simple (D0)
Terrain tests as if it is paved roads for the purposes
of its Fast special ability. If the remote has Terrain
Specialist (All), they must choose one terrain at a
time, though this can be switched with 20 minutes
and a Tech (D1) test.
Total Reaction: When performing the Covering Fire
or Return Fire Reactions, each Reaction costs 1 less
Heat than usual.
Trusted Messenger: Hacking compartments open
without authorisation is Difficulty 4. Thievery tests
with physical access are Difficulty 2.
THE ROLEPLAYING GAME
REMOTE UPGRADES
NOTES
Each remote’s number of unused limbs and
hardpoints are listed in their entry. For remote
upgrade rules and items, see “Options and
Upgrades” on p. 98. Some remotes in this section
incorporate hardpoint upgrades from that chapter.
These upgrades are already installed, do not take
up hardpoints, and are listed in parentheses after
the number of available hardpoints of their type. A
removed upgrade restores hardpoints. For example,
Chassis 2 (Ballast) becomes Chassis 3 if the Ballast
upgrade is removed.
Additionally, removing an integrated Two-Handed,
Unbalanced, or Unwieldy ranged weapon from
a remote makes the technician’s choice of an
additional Limb or Weapons hardpoint available,
regardless of any other listed limbs or hardpoints.
Many remote-compatible weapon systems are
bulkier than their handheld equivalents. See the
Custom Loadout X option on page 100 for details.
The majority of remotes are too small and densely
packed for internal hardpoints. Those who do have
them are specifically noted. All others have no
internal hardpoints, and cannot gain them without
GM approval (and likely an overhaul of some kind).
OPTIONAL RULE: REMOTE
ACQUISITIONS
When shopping for remotes, knowing what
one’s looking for, assessing a potential
purchase’s history and flaws, and discovering
issues the seller is attempting to conceal are
as much a matter of technical expertise as
consumer savvy. With GM permission, a buyer
can make Acquisitions tests for a remote
using Personality + Tech, or even Personality
+ Thievery, in place of Personality + Lifestyle.
These are particularly appropriate when
dealing with remote-modding and criminal
subcultures.
Remote Assistance 67
 ARMBOT, BULLETEER ARMBOT, PEACEMAKER
In contrast to other remotes’ utilitarian aesthetics, A more affordable Armbot designed for export,
the PanOceanian Armbot is a weapon and makes and often sold in combination with one or more
no effort to appear otherwise. With quadrupedal Auxbots, the Peacemaker lacks the Bulleteer’s
attack platforms, they are deceptively sturdy Optical Disruption Device but retains its ranged
without sacrificing manoeuvrability, making them options. It also incorporates remote coordination
a PanOceanian military favourite and an ideal software, though rumours of built-in exploits and
workhorse remote. backdoors are a continual drag on sales.

The combat-proven Bulleteer model incorporates

an Optical Disruption Device, and two ranged
options: either loadout Alpha’s Spitfire, or Beta’s
Heavy Shotgun.

ELITE ELITE

BULLETEER ARMBOT PEACEMAKER ARMBOT

ATTRIBUTES ATTRIBUTES
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
11 10 12 (+2) 11 8 5 6 11 10 12 (+2) 11 8 5 6
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Combat +3 3 Movement +1 1 Social — — Combat +3 3 Movement +1 1 Social — —
Fortitude +1 1 Senses +1 1 Technical — — Fortitude +1 1 Senses +1 1 Technical — —

HARDPOINTS HARDPOINTS
Chassis 1, Comms 0 (Repeater), External 0 (ODD), Chassis 1, Comms 0 (Repeater), External 0,
Internal 1, Limbs 0, Motive 0, Weapons 0 Internal 0, Limbs 0, Motive 0, Weapons 0
DEFENCES DEFENCES
Firewall 8 Resolve 7 Structure 13 Firewall 8 Resolve 7 Structure 13
Security - Morale — Armour 3 Security - Morale - Armour 3

ATTACKS ATTACKS
MOUNTED ATTACKS LOADOUT ALPHA
Slam: Melee, 3+7§ damage, Anti-Materiel, Knockdown, Vicious 1 Spitfire: Range M, 1+7§ damage, Burst 3, 2H, Spread 2, Unsubtle
LOADOUT ALPHA LOADOUT BETA
Spitfire: Range M, 1+7§ damage, Burst 3, 2H, Spread 2, Unsubtle Heavy Shotgun: Range C, 2+7§ damage, Burst 1, 2H, Knockdown
LOADOUT BETA o Normal Shells Mode (Primary): Area (Close), Spread 1
Heavy Shotgun: Range C, 2+7§ damage, Burst 1, 2H, Knockdown
o AP Slugs Mode (Secondary): Piercing 3
o Normal Shells Mode (Primary): Area (Close), Spread 1
o AP Slugs Mode (Secondary): Piercing 3
GEAR: Repeater

GEAR: Optical Disruption Device, Repeater

SPECIAL ABILITIES
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 2, Quad-Legs, Remote,
SPECIAL ABILITIES Superhuman Brawn 2
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 2, Quad-Legs, Remote, REM Nexus: Allied Auxbots within Long range gain a bonus 1d20
Superhuman Brawn 2 on Ballistics or Athletics tests but have 0 Security Soak against Hexahe-
dron, PMC, or PanOceanian law enforcement infowar attacks.

68 Chapter 4
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

AUXBOT CHAĪIYÌ YÁOKÒNG

Widely used as a small-scale weapons platform,
the Auxbot is a staple PanOceanian support unit:
fast, small, easily repaired, and cheap to mass-
produce. The design has an instantly recognisable
flared chassis, gyroscopically mounted on a single
spherical wheel driven by a powerful magnetic
array, with a large front sensor and a swathe
of aerials and antennae at the rear. Its mobility
system allows rapid movement in varied terrain,
while the seamless integration of its LAI with a
commanding officer’s geist (or another remote’s
LAI) enables rapid flanking manoeuvres and
coordinated evasion.
(MESSENGER REMOTE)
The Yáokòng is a versatile Yu Jing StateArmy
support remote, and the Chaīyì Yáokòng its most
heavily modified variant. With most structural
components replaced with high-density polymers
to lower its weight and lighter armour than other
Yáokòng models, the Chaīyì efficiently trades
protection for speed. Low-slung, quadrupedal,
and capable of moving near-silently in almost
any terrain, it is ideal for frontline cyber-support,
projecting Yu Jingese hackers’ influence across the
battlefield. It is often repurposed as a courier for
hand-written orders too sensitive to entrust to
quantronics, confidential communiques between
courtiers, and other critical deliveries.

TROOPER ELITE

AUXBOT CHAIĪYÌ YÁOKÒNG

ATTRIBUTES ATTRIBUTES
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
11 9 10 10 8 4 4 12 10 10 8 9 6 8
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Combat +2 1 Movement +1 — Social — — Combat +2 — Movement +3 2 Social — —
Fortitude +1 — Senses +1 — Technical — — Fortitude +2 — Senses +2 — Technical +1 —

HARDPOINTS HARDPOINTS
Chassis 0, Comms 0, External 0, Limbs 0, Motive 0, Weapons 0, Chassis 0, Comms 0, External 0 (1x Sniffer Pod 2), Limbs 0, Motive 0,
Overhaul (Geistwires 1 (Agility)) Weapons 0, Overhaul (Compartment 2)
DEFENCES DEFENCES
Firewall 6 Resolve 3 Structure 5 Firewall 9 Resolve 8 Structure 10
Security 3 Morale — Armour — Security 3 Morale — Armour —
ATTACKS ATTACKS
MOUNTED ATTACKS Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+6§ damage, Immobilising, Stun
Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+6§ damage, Immobilising, Stun Flash Pulse: Range M, 1+6§ damage, Burst 1, 2H, Blinding, r. Marked
LOADOUT ALPHA GEAR: Chameleonwear, 1x Sniffer Pod 2
Heavy Flamethrower: Range C, 2+7§§ damage, Burst 1, 2H, Incendiary
3, Munition, Terrifying 2, Torrent. SPECIAL ABILITIES
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 2, Quad-Legs, Remote,
LOADOUT BETA Trusted Messenger
Light Shotgun: Range C, 1+6§ damage, Burst 1, Unbalanced, Knock-
down.
Light Grenade Launcher: Range M, 2+6§ damage, Burst 1, Unbal-
anced, Area (Close), Munition, Speculative Fire.
SPECIAL ABILITIES
Common Special Abilities: Fast (1 Heat), Remote
Support Platform: When adding Auxbots via the Reinforcements Heat
spend, the cost is reduced by 1 (to a minimum of zero), if there are
PanOceanian military personnel present in the scene.

Remote Assistance 69
 CRABBOT The 1st time a PanOceanian Crabbot detaches from
Ancillary Remote Units created during the its TAG, the GM has several options:
hyperpower’s transition to remotely piloted TAGs,
PanOceanian Crabbots shelter inside a TAG until For 0 Heat, declare the Crabbot has the common
needed, then detach so their pilots can navigate upgrades as listed for its unit.
cramped environments and manipulate otherwise For 1 Heat, declare that it has the common
inaccessible elements of the battlefield. With a upgrades for a different unit instead.
compact crab-like chassis echoing creatures found Declare it is an unenhanced stock remote without
in caves beneath the Clausewitz Military Academy, upgrades, and gain 1 Heat.
their plain surfaces and modular systems are often
upgraded to serve as informal unit mascots and
pilot avatars. COMMON CRABBOT UPGRADES
Cutter (Naval Chasseurs)
CRABBOT UPGRADES • Extra Gear: Chameleonwear Coating
Every PanOceanian Military Complex TAG pilot • Ignores penalties imposed by pressure, even
has a degree of leeway over “their” Crabbot’s at extraordinary depths, and aquatic difficult
appearance and components, and most spend terrain up to its controller’s Pilot Focus.
a percentage of their pay and time decorating
Dragão (Dragões)
or enhancing it and its replacements when it’s
• 2 Fire Reloads (max capacity), Inured to Heat
damaged beyond repair. Subcultural traditions vary
• IPMT Micro-Flamethrower (replaces Flash
but are often consistent within a unit. Experienced
Pulse): Range R/C, 1+4§ damage, Burst 2, 1H,
pilots will purchase idiosyncratic modifications to
Incendiary 2, Munition, Terrifying 2, Torrent
exploit enemies’ expectations.
Jotum (Einherjar)
TROOPER • Can reroll up to 2d20 on arctic, mountain, or
swampy terrain tests.
CRABBOT • No Flash Pulse but can mount its host’s
D.E.P. atop its shell as a Standard Action if
ATTRIBUTES in the same zone. It must drop D.E.P. to use
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL Claw-Shears.
10 9 6 10 9 6 6
Seraph (Order-Sergeant)
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE • If detached, can grant allied remotes
Combat +1 1 Movement +2 2 Social — — within Medium range one bonus
Fortitude — — Senses +1 1 Technical +2 2 Momentum to Ballistics tests until
its next turn as a Standard Action.
HARDPOINTS • Single-Use Nanopulser (replaces Flash Pulse):
Chassis 0, Comms 0 (Repeater), External 0, Limbs 0 (2x Omniclaws), Range C, 1+5§ damage, 1H, Biotech, Disposable,
Motive 0, Weapons 0 Subtle 3, Torrent, Vicious 2
DEFENCES Squalo (Pinne di Squalo)
Firewall 5 Resolve 5 Structure 5 • Extra Gear: Deployable Repeater
Security — Morale — Armour 0 • The crabbot’s Claw-Shears gain Vicious 1 and
Unforgiving 1, and the pilot can take advantage
ATTACKS:
Claw-Shears: Melee, 1+3§ damage, 1H, Piercing 1, Subtle 1 of Close Combat and Acrobatics Talents with it.
Flash Pulse: Range M, 1+6§ damage, Burst 1, 2H, Blinding, removes
Marked Tikbalang (Armoured Chasseurs)
GEAR: Basic medical supplies, Powered Multitool, Repeater
• Extra Gear: Chameleonwear Coating,
Climbing Plus
SPECIAL ABILITIES
Common Special Abilities: Remote
• No Flash Pulse and can carry and plant its
host’s antipersonnel mine.
Carapace: Uses its host’s Armour Soak and Security Soak while
attached to a PanOceanian TAG’s chassis, immune to Faults or Breaches Uhlan (Clausewitz Uhlans)
until its host suffers 2 or more.
• Extra Gear: Chameleonwear Coating
Omniclaws: Provided its controller takes an Exploit Action to prepare • No Flash Pulse and can carry 1 of its host’s
for a non-attack Medicine or Tech task, the Crabbot’s Agility, Brawn, and
Coordination do not cap the controller’s.
Reloads when it detaches, then self-destruct
later to detonate as a <Reload’s Ammo
Regimental Mods: See below.
Type> grenade.
Zoea: Enters or detaches from its TAG as a Standard Action.

70 Chapter 4
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

DAKINI TACBOT Dembots were first developed by Yu Jing and

An SSS staple unit, the Dakini Tacbot’s humanoid designed to clear out pockets of metropolitan
size and form fulfils a wide variety of functions. sprawl that were abandoned in the years following
With four common loadouts and recoil-absorbent the population exodus from Earth to the Shanxing
arms capable of swapping out any set of system. Now made by dozens of manufacturers
armaments for any other wielded by humans, it is and used widely throughout the Human Sphere,
as flexible as a human soldier and far more durable. Dembots are quadrupedal, slow, extremely robust,
Designed to operate independently of ALEPH and and purpose-built to smash things. Typically
intelligent enough to calculate and make choices equipped with two large and armoured waldos
based on the assessments of their own LAI or when ending in reinforced club-like fists, they were
prompted by their controller, Dakini Tacbots are an originally designed for use in dense urban areas,
efficient, versatile, and easily manufactured choice but also see heavy use in the mining industry,
for a wide range of frontline services. particularly in locations that are unsafe for humans
to operate and in zero-g. Mining industry models
TROOPER have a range of waldo attachments that can be
DAKINI TACBOT swapped out depending on the task required.
They occasionally make the news when used by
ATTRIBUTES enterprising Submondo crews for smash and grab
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL heists and break-ins. Law enforcement teams
10 9 9 8 8 5 7 use them in turn as breaching tools for no-knock
raids, smashing through the walls and floors into
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE criminal hide-outs.
Combat +2 — Movement +2 +1 Social — —
Fortitude +1 — Senses — — Technical — —
TROOPER

HARDPOINTS DEMBOT
Chassis 0, Comms 0, External 0,
Limbs 0 (2x Basic Waldo), Motive 0, Weapons 0 ATTRIBUTES
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
DEFENCES
6 10 11 (+2) 8 10 4 7
Firewall 6 Resolve 5 Structure 5
Security 2 Morale - Armour - FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
DEMBOT
Combat — — Movement — — Social — —
ATTACKS:
LOADOUT ALPHA/BETA Fortitude +1 — Senses +2 — Technical +2 1
Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+5§ damage, Immobilising, Stun
Combi Rifle: Range M, 1+5§ damage, Burst 2, 2H, Expert 1, MULTI, HARDPOINTS
Light Mod, Vicious 1 Chassis 0, Comms 0, External 1, Internal 1, Limbs 0 (2x Basic Waldos),
LOADOUT BETA ONLY Motive 0, Weapons 0
Light Grenade Launcher: Range M, 2+4§ damage, Burst 1,
DEFENCES
Unbalanced, Grenades, Area (close), Munition, Speculative Fire.
Firewall 10 Resolve 7 Structure 11
LOADOUT CHARLIE
Security 1 Morale - Armour 2
Heavy Machine Gun: Range L, 2+6§ damage, Burst 3, Unwieldy,
Spread 1, Unsubtle. ATTACKS:
LOADOUT DELTA 2x Demo-Fists: Melee, 2+10§ damage, Anti-Materiel 2, Area(Close),
MULTI Sniper Rifle: Range L, 1+6§ damage, Burst 2/2, Unwieldy, Grievous, Improvised 2, Knockdown, Spread 2, Terrifying 2, Stun,
Unsubtle 2
Medium MULTI, Heavy, MULTI, Unforgiving 2.
SPECIAL ABILITIES
GEAR: Chameleonwear, MediKit (Loadout Alpha only) Common Special Abilities: Lumbering, Remote, Superhuman Brawn 2
SPECIAL ABILITIES
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 2, Fast (1 Heat),
Remote
Medical Reprogrammming: When issued with the Alpha loadout,
the Dakini is recalibrated to support in-field first aid and medical
intervention. It gains Technical +1/1 Field of Expertise at the cost of
any bonus to the Combat Field of Expertise. Any Dakini with a direct
connection to ALEPH can make this change in seconds. In the field, it
takes a Simple D(0) Tech test and 15 minutes to make the change.

Remote Assistance 71
 DEVABOT DEVABOT: KYDOIMOS
Designed specifically to provide literal fire support
to its linked owner, the Devabot is a swift and
deadly area control remote. It is more than capable
of laying down suppressive fire independently,
armed with a heavy flamethrower, and is most
often paired with units tasked with hacking or
engineering roles to clear battlefield objectives
and provide close support while its owner
performs their duties.
AND CHARYBDIS
Kydoimos and Charybdis are two Devabots that
have seen extensive service on Paradiso. Paired
with Drakios and Scylla respectively, Kydoimos and
Charybdis have been battered, smashed, pulled
apart, shot, repaired, and upgraded so many times
that it’s unlikely that much of either Devabot is
original factory material. They have served well,
however, and continue to provide vital support to
their long-time owners.

TROOPER ELITE

DEVABOT DEVABOTS KYDOIMOS AND

CHARYBDIS
ATTRIBUTES
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL ATTRIBUTES
10 8 9 9 7 6 7 AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
12 10 10 10 8 6 7
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Combat +2 1 Movement +1 1 Social — — FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Fortitude +1 — Senses — — Technical — — Combat +3 2 Movement +2 1 Social — —
Fortitude +1 — Senses +2 1 Technical +1 —
HARDPOINTS
Chassis 0, Comms 0, External 0, Limbs 0 (2x Basic Waldos), Motive 0, HARDPOINTS
Weapons 0 Chassis 0, Comms 0, External 0, Limbs 0 (2x Basic Waldos), Motive 0,
Weapons 0,
DEFENCES
Overhaul ((K) Albedo Housing)
Firewall 5 Resolve 4 Structure 6
Security 2 Morale — Armour — DEFENCES
Firewall 10 Resolve 8 Structure 11
ATTACKS:
Security 2 Morale — Armour —
Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+5§ damage, Immobilising, Stun
Heavy Flamethrower: Range C, 2+6§ damage, Burst 1, 2H, Incendiary ATTACKS:
3, Munition, Terrifying 2, Torrent. Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+6§ damage, Immobilising, Stun
SPECIAL ABILITIES Heavy Flamethrower: Range C, 2+7§ damage, Burst 1, 2H, Fire,
Common Special Abilities: Fast (1 Heat), Ghost-Config, Remote Incendiary 3, Munition, Terrifying 2, Torrent
GEAR: Repeater (C) 3x Deployable Repeater (Firewall 9, Security 3)
SPECIAL ABILITIES
Common Special Abilities: Fast (1 Heat), Ghost-Config, Remote, Terrain
Specialist (Jungle)
Jungle Veterans: These Devabots have spent a majority of their oper-
ational lives in Paradiso’s thick jungles. When in a Jungle environment,
they gain +1d20 on Movement tests.

72 Chapter 4
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

DRONBOT EVERCAST CLOUD X

A quadrupedal attack platform designed for a Sold in thousands of near-identical varieties,
wide range of roles, the Dronbot is a flexible and Evercast Clouds are composed of many small, Urban legend has it that
stable combat remote. Made by Moto.Tronica barely intelligent, networked camera drones, notorious Bakunin rapper
with integrated universal mounting points, they connected to a Maya-nexus Hive, which provides DT “Don’t Touch” Makeway
has been rumoured to have
always ship with one of several standard packages guidance, recharging, and storage. The drones
customised the drones of his
added, each specialising in a different frontline swarm around a designated target, usually their
cloud’s battery packs to shock
role. PanOceania fields four common variants, but owner, on pre-set flight plans, filming angles for a anyone they impact with. While
other packages designed for the model’s universal varied and continual visual feed of their subject. this seems unlikely, nobody
mounts are widely available on the grey market. Most Hives are miniaturised and small enough seems keen to test the rumour.
Dronbots are often found in service to Submondo to attach to clothing, armour, or carry as part of a
groups, performing roles ranging from hospitality handbag. Each Hive comes with an LAI specialised
to security. in real-time video editing that stitches together
myriad feeds to suit their owner’s style, personality,
TROOPER shtick, and mood. Officially restricted to private
DRONBOT property or specifically pre-authorised public
events, many Submondo groups, Corporate Security
ATTRIBUTES Units, and law enforcement teams deploy hacked
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL Evercast Clouds to stake out or stalk persons of
8 9 9 9 7 6 8
interest. Individual drones’ battery lives are short,
but when rotated with spare units stored in the
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE Hive, the Cloud can operate continuously for up
Combat +2 1 Movement +1 — Social — — to 24 hours.
Fortitude +1 — Senses — — Technical +1 —
TROOPER

HARDPOINTS EVERCAST CLOUD X

Chassis 1, Comms 0, External 0, Limbs 0, Motive 0, Weapons 0
ATTRIBUTES
DEFENCES AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
Firewall 5 Resolve 4 Structure 5 10 8 6 10 10 6 6
Security 2 Morale — Armour 0
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
ATTACKS: Combat — — Movement +2 1 Social — —
MOUNTED WEAPONS: Fortitude — — Senses +2 — Technical +1 —
Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+5§ damage, Immobilising, Stun
LOADOUTS HARDPOINTS
“Clipper” Smart Missile Launcher: Range L, 2+8§ damage, Burst
Chassis 0, Comms 1 (Repeater), External 0 (Recorder), Limbs 0, Motive 0,
1, Unwieldy, Expert 1, Guided, Munition, Unforgiving 1
Weapons 0
“Fugazi” Flash Pulse: Range M, 1+5§ damage, Burst 1, 2H,
Blinding, Unforgiving 1, removes Marked DEFENCES
“Pathfinder” Combi Rifle: Range C/M, 1+6§ damage, Burst 2, 2H, Firewall 10 Resolve 6 Structure 4X
Expert 1, MULTI Light Mod, Unforgiving 1, Vicious 1 Security 2 Morale — Armour —
“Sierra” HMG: Range M, 2+7§ damage, Burst 3, Unwieldy, Spread 1,
GEAR: Repeater, Recorder
Unforgiving 1, Unsubtle
SPECIAL ABILITIES
GEAR:
“Fugazi”: Chameleonwear, 3x Sniffer Pod 2 Common Special Abilities: Remote

“Pathfinder”: Forward Observer NARC pod, Powered Multitool Evercasting: The subject is filmed continually from a variety of angles,
granting a bonus Momentum and −1 difficulty to Analysis and Observa-
“Sierra”: Eyepaint Overhaul tion tests to analyse events near them, Psychology tests to understand
SPECIAL ABILITIES or falsely present their emotions later, or other tests to create art based
Common Special Abilities: Fast (0 Heat) (Fugazi only), Quad-Legs, on the feed.
Remote Backup Units: Each point of Structure represents about 3X of the
(Fugazi) Long Distance Runner: This model lacks a bulky weapons Cloud’s individual drones, and only a portion of its full complement.
package, allowing for the addition of power storage. It can move The first X times it suffers a Fault, it returns healed of all damage at the
at top speed for up to 72 hours without recharging, provided it end of the next turn, as fresh drones arrive to replace destroyed ones.
continually moves over flat open terrain. Secure Line: +X to Security Soak and a bonus Xd20 on tests to notice
important visual details or create an aesthetically pleasing presenta-
tion when operated by an Aspect or its native LAI, or +1 Security Soak
and a bonus 1d20 if operated by a geist.
Tethered: Individual drones cannot move more than 1 zone away from
their Hive.

Remote Assistance 73
 FANOUS GARUDA TACBOT
Designed to extend Haqqislamite combat hackers’ Named for the Vedic god Vishnu’s avian mount, the
ranges and rapidly deploy sensor arrays, the Garuda Immediate Tactical Deployment Bot is a
Fanous’ (Arabic for “lamp”) lightweight chassis and staple of ALEPH’s Special Situations Section. A light
digitigrade legs allow incredibly swift movement remote with sub-orbital deployment capabilities,
without sacrificing off-road stability. An invaluable the Garuda eschews bulky armour in favour of
tool on the frontier, they carry consumer-grade mobility and evasion. All things considered, it’s a
self-defence systems and sensor pods that are solid trade. Garuda are notoriously difficult to hit
valuable even in military-grade combat and a and terrifyingly accurate, often making it through
proven repeater for quantronically flanking the entire firefights without so much as a scratch.
opposition or maintaining connectivity between Ostensibly unavailable to anyone outside the SSS,
widespread convoys. salvaged models — or curiously similar designs —
first appeared in grey markets across the Human
TROOPER Sphere recently, often with novel integrated
weapon systems.
FANOUS
ATTRIBUTES NEMESIS
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
14 (+2) 10 7 10 7 5 4
GARUDA TACBOT
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE ATTRIBUTES
Combat +1 — Movement +3 1 Social — — AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
Fortitude — — Senses +1 — Technical — — 13 (+1) 10 9 (+1) 12 (+1) 10 8 8
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
HARDPOINTS
Combat +2 2 Movement +4 4 Social — —
Chassis 0 (3x Sniffer Pod 1), Comms 0 (Repeater), External 0, Limbs 0
Fortitude +2 1 Senses +2 1 Technical +2 —
(SwapSocket), Motive 1, Weapons 0
DEFENCES HARDPOINTS
Firewall 4 Resolve 3 Structure 5 Chassis 0, Comms 0, External 0 (x1 Combat Jump Pack), Limbs 0 (x2 basic
Security — Morale — Armour — waldos), Motive 0, Weapons 0

ATTACKS DEFENCES
Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+5§ damage, Immobilising, Stun Firewall 12 Resolve 10 Structure 11
Flash Pulse: Range M, 1+5§ damage, Burst 1, 2H, Blinding, removes Security 2 Morale — Armour 3
Marked
GEAR: Chameleonwear, Repeater (see below), Sniffer Pod 1 ATTACKS:
MOUNTED WEAPONS
SPECIAL ABILITIES Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+6§ damage, Immobilising, Stun
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 2, Fast (0 Heat), Remote,
Superhuman Agility 2 LOADOUT ALPHA
Oviparous: Carries a milspec Muzz-AN repeater (Firewall 12, Security Boarding Shotgun: Range C, 1+9§ damage, Burst 1, 2H, Knockdown,
2), that takes 2 Breaches to disable or suborn and can be “laid” in the Medium MULTI
Fanous’ current zone as a Deployable Repeater. Doing so, or placing a LOADOUT BETA
Sniffer Pod, is a Tech (D0) test and a Minor Action. Combi Rifle: Range C/M, 1+9§ damage, Burst 2, 2H, Expert 1, MULTI
Light Mod, Vicious 1
LOADOUT CHARLIE
HMG: Range L, 2+10§ damage, Burst 3, Unwieldy, Spread 1, Unsubtle
LOADOUT DELTA
Spitfire: Range M, 1+9§ damage, Burst 3, 2H, Spread 2, Unsubtle 1
GEAR: Chameleonware, Combat Jump Pack
SPECIAL ABILITIES
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 3, Defensive Algorithms,
Remote, Superhuman Agility 1, Brawn 1, and Coordination 1

74 Chapter 4
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

GARUDA KNOCKOFF (NANDI) GEEPAL X

Usually purchased in combination with a child’s
first geist, these stuffed animals have brightly
coloured plush fur or padding, soft articulated
skeletons, and expressive faces designed to
put their charges at ease. They are designed
specifically to host geists for an early start to a
lifetime of companionship, and while few adults
use them, many fondly remember their first
one — an ideal hypercorp branding opportunity.
High-priced ‘Pals, designed for collectors or parents
willing to pay a premium for a more expressive
limited edition, are much sturdier than mass-
produced versions, but even the least expensive
come bundled with Mayaware to alert parents to
unexpected or dangerous situations.

TROOPER TROOPER

GARUDA KNOCKOFF GEEPAL X

ATTRIBUTES ATTRIBUTES
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
12 10 8 10 10 5 8 5 7 3 7 10 10 6
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Combat +1 +1 Movement +3 1 Social — — Combat — — Movement +1 — Social +2 +1
Fortitude — — Senses +1 +1 Technical +1 1 Fortitude — — Senses +1 +1 Technical — —

HARDPOINTS HARDPOINTS
Chassis 0, Comms 0, External 0 (x1 Combat Jump Pack), Limbs 0 (x2 basic Chassis 0 (Locational Beacon), Comms 0 (Repeater), External 0 (Recorder),
waldos), Motive 0, Weapons 0 Limbs 0, Motive 0, Weapons 0
DEFENCES DEFENCES
Firewall 10 Resolve 8 Structure 8 Firewall 6 Resolve 2 Structure 3
Security — Morale — Armour 1 Security — Morale — Armour —

ATTACKS: GEAR: Locational Beacon, Recorder, Repeater

LOADOUT ALPHA SPECIAL ABILITIES
Boarding Shotgun: Range C, 1+9§ damage, Burst 1, 2H, Knockdown, Common Special Abilities: Lumbering, Remote
Medium MULTI
Comforting: When controlled by a child’s geist, provides the child
LOADOUT BETA with +1 Morale Soak when within Reach, their mental Recovery
Combi Rifle: Range C/M, 1+9§ damage, Burst 2, 2H, Expert 1, MULTI actions heal 4 Resolve instead of 2, and the child’s Intransigence is
Light Mod, Vicious 1 reduced by 1.
LOADOUT CHARLIE Cute: Adds X bonus Momentum (max 3) to social tests with children
Spitfire: Range M, 1+9§ damage, Burst 3, 2H, Spread 2, Unsubtle 1 under 8 or subculture members with affinity for the GeePal’s
GEAR: Chameleonware, Combat Jump Pack appearance.
SPECIAL ABILITIES Secure: +2 Security Soak when connected via a dedicated link
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 2, Defensive Algorithms, through Maya or Arachne to a parent, guardian, or owner’s comlog.
Remote, Superhuman Agility 1, Brawn 1, and Coordination 1. Soft: Suffers two fewer zones of falling damage on landing, and -2§
damage from attacks without the Piercing quality.

Remote Assistance 75
 HÙSÒNG YÁOKÒNG
(ESCORT REMOTE) Easy to field-repair, the Kameel’s robust
Used in a variety of roles, the Yáokòng is a common
StateEmpire support unit. The Hùsòng model may
be lightly armoured, but this sacrifice provides a
key strength: speed. Quadrupedal, and armed with
a heavy machine gun and a full array of advanced
sensors, the Hùsòng is a formidable weapon and
at its best when holding a designated area or
providing covering suppression fire to hold back
an advance.
Equipped with a state-of-the-art vison system to
quickly identify enemy troops for firing solutions,
it is ideal for densely packed terrain, seeing heavy
use in Paradiso’s jungles and more recently in
urban environments supporting StateEmpire forces
during the Uprising.
ELITE
KAMEEL VARIANTS
quadrupedal motive system and standardised
chassis support a versatile range of loadouts.
Haqqislamite High Command relies on Kameel
variants for logistics transport, minesweeping,
communications, and cybernetic control, and
especially as a basic defence platform.
Its multi-purpose design allows easy and relatively
swift alterations, and the chassis and motive
system are designed to a button-on approach,
making swapping damaged parts straightforward.
Even units damaged beyond repair typically have
salvageable components, which can be unbuttoned
for re-use. While classified as heavily restricted
military technology, a large number of these
remotes are available through grey and black-
market sources, most cobbled together from a
small swarm of partially destroyed units.

HÙSÒNG YÁOKÒNG NEMESIS

ATTRIBUTES
KAMEEL VARIANTS
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
ATTRIBUTES
9 10 10 11 9 6 8
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE 9 8 9 (+2) 8 10 6 7
Combat +3 2 Movement +2 — Social — — FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Fortitude +2 — Senses +2 1 Technical — — Combat +1 1 Movement +1 — Social — —
Fortitude — — Senses — — Technical +1 1
HARDPOINTS
Chassis 0, Comms 0, External 0, Limbs 0, Motive 0, Weapons 0, Overhaul HARDPOINTS
(Eyepaint)
Chassis 1, Comms 0 (Repeater), External 0, Internal 1, Limbs 0 (Deactiva-
DEFENCES tor Kit), Motive 0, Weapons 0
Firewall 9 Resolve 8 Structure 10 DEFENCES
Security 3 Morale — Armour — Firewall 5 Resolve 4 Structure 6
ATTACKS Security 2 Morale — Armour 1
Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+5§ damage, Immobilising, Stun
HMG: Range M, 2+8§ damage, Burst 3, Unwieldy, Spread 1, Unsubtle ATTACKS:
MOUNTED WEAPONS
SPECIAL ABILITIES Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+6§ damage, Immobilising, Stun
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 2, Quad-Legs, Remote,
Total Reaction LOADOUT (GUARDIAN)
Rifle: Range M, 1+6§ damage, Burst 2, 2H, MULTI L. Mod, Vicious 1
Advanced Optics: Ignores complication range penalties to Observation
Light Shotgun: Range C, 1+6§ damage, Burst 1, Unbalanced, Knockdown
tests from its Eyepaint overhaul, even when disabled.
LOADOUT (HACKER)
Hacking Device: CLAW-1, SWORD-1, SHIELD-1, GADGET-2, IC-2, +2§ bonus
damage
GEAR: Repeater, Deactivator Kit (Hacker only)
SPECIAL ABILITIES
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 2, EOD (Hacker only) Quad-Legs,
Remote, Rugged, Superhuman Brawn (2), Total Reaction (Guardian only)
Easy Recycling: Tech tests to repair or upgrade are at -1 difficulty. With a Tech
(D0) test, or (D2) if Structure is reduced to 0, a technician can salvage 2 plus
Momentum spent in parts from a Kameel, destroying it completely. When at least
one of these salvaged parts is spent on a Tech test to repair or upgrade another
Kameel, the time required is halved.
Capability Calibration: A Simple D(0) Tech test and 30 minutes of software
patching allows a character to trade the Coordination and Intelligence attributes
of the Kameel.
Brutal Infowarrior (Hacker only): When making an Infowar Attack, the Kameel
can reroll up to 2§ of quantronic damage but must accept the results.

76 Chapter 4
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

KARKATA
At ALEPH’s request, Moto.tronica adapted
PanOceania’s Mechanised Cavalry Crabbot to
OperationS Officers’ exacting demands. Thoroughly
pleased with the result, they gave it the Vedic
astrological designation of Karkata, or Cancer in
the western zodiac, after its crab-like torso and
protective versatility. Karkatas grant OperationS
Subsection pilots and experts speed, precision,
and the operational freedom to engage the
enemy without risking death — or worse, sepsitor
corruption.
KIRANBOT
These combat support remotes are most commonly
deployed alongside Arjuna infantry. Programmed
to supplement ground assault and infiltration
missions with their heavy E/Marat rifles, they also
have the capacity to intelligently place explosive
charges and are often equipped with E/M2 Mines.
A Kiranbot can synchronise with a soldier in its
unit, mirroring their movements, tactical bearing,
and approach to provide the maximum amount of
close support.

ELITE TROOPER

KARKATA KIRANBOT
ATTRIBUTES ATTRIBUTES
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
10 10 10 10 10 6 7 7 8 9 9 8 7 8
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Combat +2 +2 Movement +1 +1 Social — — Combat +2 1 Movement +1 — Social — —
Fortitude +1 +1 Senses +1 +1 Technical +1 1 Fortitude — — Senses — — Technical +1 1

HARDPOINTS HARDPOINTS
Chassis 0, Comms 0, External 0, Limbs 0 (Specialised Waldo 1 [Medicine], Chassis 0, Comms 0, External 0 (Mine Dispenser),
Specialised Waldo 1 [Tech]), Motive 0, Weapons 0 Limbs 0 (2x Basic Waldos), Motive 0, Weapons 0

DEFENCES DEFENCES
Firewall 10 Resolve 8 Structure 12 Firewall 6 Resolve 4 Structure 5
Security — Morale — Armour 1 Security 2 Morale — Armour —

ATTACKS:
Retractable Claw-Edges: Melee, Damage 1+7§, Concealed 1, Non-
Hackable, Subtle 2, Unforgiving 1
Flash Pulse: Range M, 1+7§ damage, Burst 1, 2H, Blinding, Removes
Marked
GEAR: Basic Medical Supplies, Powered Multitool
SPECIAL ABILITIES
Common Special Abilities: Fast (1 Heat), Ghost-Config, Remote
Careful Claws: Delicate servos negate complication range penalties
for remote control on Tech and Medicine tests. See “Waldo X
Specialised” on p.103.
ATTACKS:
Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+5§ damage, Immobilising, Stun
E/Marat: Range C, 1+5§ damage, Burst 1, 1H, Breaker, E/M, Piercing
1, Torrent
E/M2 Mines: 2+5§ damage, 1H, Comms, Disposable, Indiscriminate
(Close), Unsubtle, Area (Close), Breaker, E/M, Piercing 2.
SPECIAL ABILITIES
Common Special Abilities: Fast (1 Heat), Remote, Servant
Redeploy: As a Reaction to a ranged attack, a Kiranbot can move
anywhere within Close.

Remote Assistance 77
 LÙ DUĀAN MULEBOT
Designed for speed over durability, the Lù Duān has Created as multifunction logistics remotes,
a specific frontline role, assaulting, securing, and Mulebots can keep pace with even the most
holding hardened battlefield positions. Equipped dynamic PanOceanian forces or hypercorporate
with state-of-the-art holographic technology and timeline. Their multiple configurable attachment
a multispectral vision system, it is ideally suited points, reliable design, and open architecture
to both the dense combats of Paradiso and urban proved useful for civilian purposes once Moto.
warfare. Its projector and speed confuse the enemy tronica’s exclusive contract with the Hexahedron
and make it a difficult target while it uses its Mk ended a decade ago, and are now the backbone
12 to lay down suppressive fire and destroy targets of PanOceanian and hypercorporate shipping and
with pinpoint accuracy. The heavy calibre and warehouse management, as well as a substantial
recoil of the Mk 12 pushes it beyond the limits of hobbyist modding community.
human capability to wield, but for the Lù Duān, it
is highly effective. Restricted military technology, TROOPER
these remotes can be found sporadically on black
markets throughout Yu Jingese territory and MULEBOT
are often used as defence remotes by criminal
organisations and hyper-elites. ATTRIBUTES
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
11 10 9 (+3) 11 7 4 4
TROOPER
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
LÙ DUĀAN
Combat — — Movement +3 1 Social — —
ATTRIBUTES Fortitude +1 — Senses +1 — Technical — —
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
10 10 10 11 7 4 4 HARDPOINTS
Chassis 1, Comms 0 (Repeater), External 0,
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE Internal 1, Limbs 0 (2x SwapSocket), Motive 1,
Combat +2 1 Movement +1 — Social — — Weapons 0, Overhaul (Collapsibility)
Fortitude +1 — Senses +1 — Technical — — DEFENCES
Firewall 6 Resolve 6 Structure 12
HARDPOINTS
Security — Morale — Armour 2
Chassis 1, Comms 0 (Repeater), External 1 (MSV 1),
Internal 1, Limbs 0, Motive 0, Weapons 0 ATTACKS:
DEFENCES Weak Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+4§ damage, Immobilising, Stun
Firewall 4 Resolve 2 Structure 5 GEAR: Repeater
Security 3 Morale — Armour 0 SPECIAL ABILITIES
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 1, Remote, Rugged,
ATTACKS: Superhuman Brawn 3
Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+6§ damage, Immobilising, Stun Shipping Configuration: A Mulebot can convert to its collapsed form in
Heavy Flamethrower: Range C, 2+7§ damage, 2H, Incendiary 3, only 1 minute, no Tech test or technician required.
Munition, Terrifying 2, Torrent Tri-Sync: Mulebots are designed to work in threes, and each Mulebot in
Mk 12: Range M, 2+7§ damage, Burst 3, 2H, Salvo (Knockdown) a triad rolls +1d20 on tests when lifting, moving, or transporting cargo
in coordination with the others.
GEAR: Multispectral Visor 1, Repeater
SPECIAL ABILITIES
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 2/3, Fast (2 Heat),
Remote, Total Reaction
Holoprojector: It can project a holographic replica of itself as a Minor
Action. Analysis (D2) or Observation (D3) tests to discern which is the
real remote are made at +1 difficulty with no effect on anyone who
witnesses hologram creation.
Hunter/Killer: Advanced Security 3 when stalking a target or in
combat.

78 Chapter 4
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

NASMAT A2 PALBOT
A little over half the average human’s size, this Small, manoeuvrable, and coated with a special
humanoid remote provides frontline support and chameleonwear surface layer, this humanoid
protection for medical and engineering personnel remote supports medical and engineering
by allowing them to perform their duties with all personnel in dangerous frontline roles. Equipped
the manual dexterity required of the role remotely, with specialised waldos, Palbots allow highly
keeping these vital assets away from dangerous trained military personnel to perform their duties
hot spots. The A2 is specifically modified for without the direct risk involved with treating
the Hakims Special Medical Assistance Team, injuries or repairing equipment while under fire.
deployable via airdrop. While heavily regulated
as specialised military equipment, the Nasmat, Outside of their widespread use in the military,
or variants, see wide use on pirate and corsair Palbots (often minus their military coating) see
ships as medical support or engineers capable of extensive service in hospitals, factories, mines,
operating in breached rooms or on the exterior of and even as high-end toys for the super-rich. A
a vessel. masterclass in simple but effective design, the
Palbot is easily repaired and extremely hardy.
The Nasmat A2 is modified with an extra chassis
hardpoint carrying a modified combat jump pack.
The A1 model lacks this hardpoint but is otherwise TROOPER
identical.
PALBOT
ELITE ATTRIBUTES
NASMAT A2 AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
8 8 7 8 10 7 8
ATTRIBUTES
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
Combat — — Movement +1 — Social — —
8 8 7 8 10 7 8
Fortitude — — Senses +1 1 Technical +2 1
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Combat — — Movement +1 — Social — — HARDPOINTS
Fortitude — — Senses +1 1 Technical +2 1 Chassis 0, Comms 0, External 0, Limbs 0 (2x Specialised Waldos 1 [Tech or
Medicine]), Motive 0, Weapons 0
HARDPOINTS DEFENCES
Chassis 0 (Combat Jump Pack), Comms 0, External 0, Limbs 0 (2x Special- Firewall 6 Resolve 4 Structure 4
ised Waldos 2 [Tech or Medicine]), Motive 0, Weapons 0
Security 2 Morale — Armour —
DEFENCES
ATTACKS:
Firewall 6 Resolve 4 Structure 4
Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+5§ damage, Immobilising, Stun
Security 2 Morale — Armour —
GEAR: Chameleonwear (Military Versions Only)
ATTACKS:
SPECIAL ABILITIES
Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+4§ damage, Immobilising, Stun
Common Special Abilities: Fast (1 Heat), Remote, Servant, Rugged
GEAR: Chameleonwear, Combat Jump Pack
SPECIAL ABILITIES
Common Special Abilities: Fast (1 Heat), Remote, Servant
Dexterous: Delicate servos negate Complication range penalties for
remote control on Tech or Medicine tests. See “Waldo X, Specialised”
on p. 103.

Remote Assistance 79
 PROBOT PUPPETBOT
Led by a small team of Aspects, well-compensated Symbolic of Tunguskan eccentricity, Puppetbots
contractors took the core design and functionality may look like toys but are deadly fast and difficult
concepts behind the PanOceanian Mulebot and to kill. These tactical robots are most famously
refactored its systems and software to ALEPH’s wielded by the Nomad Puppettactica Company but
Special Situation Section’s requirements into also widely used by criminals, hackers, and those
a remote based on ALEPH’s Rebot. The Probot, with a penchant for the bizarre.
or Prototype Robot, represents a number of
breakthroughs in vehicle and technical design that Every Puppetbot is unique, and usually made,
are expected to yield exceptional new possibilities modified, or designed to spec by their owner,
in terms of what a vehicle of this size is capable representing a fandom, personality quirk, or
of. While the Probot is currently in active SSS aesthetic obsession. Stealing one has surprisingly
service, it is still regarded as a prototype due to the kinetic consequences.
sheer volume of potential development pathways
the remote represents and lingering Bureau TROOPER
Toth concerns.
PUPPETBOT
TROOPER
ATTRIBUTES
PROBOT AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
10 9 8 10 5 9 5
ATTRIBUTES
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
Combat +2 1* Movement +2 1* Social — —
10 9 9 (+3) 10 8 5 5
Fortitude — — Senses — — Technical — —
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Combat +2 1 Movement +1 1 Social — — HARDPOINTS
Fortitude — — Senses +1 — Technical — — Chassis 0, Comms 0, External 0, Limbs 0 (2x Basic Waldos), Motive 0,
Weapons 0
HARDPOINTS DEFENCES
Chassis 1, Comms 0 (Repeater), External 0, Firewall 4 Resolve 3 Structure 4
Limbs 0 (2x Swapsocket), Motive 0,
Weapons 0, Overhaul (Compartment 1) Security 2* Morale — Armour 1*
ATTACKS:
DEFENCES
Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+4§ damage, Immobilising, Stun
Firewall 5 Resolve 3 Structure 6
Security 2 Morale — Armour 1 COMMONLY WIELDED WEAPONS
Boarding Shotgun: Range C, 1+7§ damage, Burst 1, 2H, Knockdown,
ATTACKS: Medium MULTI
Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+6§ damage, Immobilising, Stun MULTI Rifle: Range C/M, 1+7§ damage, Burst 2/2, 2H, Expert 1,
(A) Smart Integrated Combi Rifle (A): Range C/M, 1+7§ damage, Medium MULTI, MULTI Light Mod, Vicious 1
Burst 2, Unwieldy, Expert 2, MULTI Light Mod, Vicious 1 Red Fury: Range M, 1+7§ damage, Burst 3, 2H, Spread 2, Grievous,
GEAR: Repeater Unsubtle, Vicious 1
SPECIAL ABILITIES SPECIAL ABILITIES
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 2/4, EOD, Fast (1 Heat), Common Special Abilities: Remote, Servant
Remote, Superhuman Brawn (3), Total Reaction Hyperdynamic*: When performing a Defence Reaction using Acrobatics,
Monitored technology: When controlled by an ALEPH Aspect, this counts as having a Movement Field of Expertise of +5/2.
remote gains +4 Security and Morale Soak. Sturdy Trooper: When a Breach effect or loss of Structure would
eliminate a Puppetbot, instead of being eliminated, it loses all ratings
and abilities in the profile marked with an *, and the Structure is reset. A
second Breach effect or full loss of Structure eliminates it as usual.

80 Chapter 4
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

RAFIQ RANDGRID CASKET-DRONE

A Rafiq, among the Bedouins, was a local guide Used for the rapid medical evacuation, or medevac,
used to escort caravans. The Rafiq remote carries of critically injured patients from accidents and
out the same mission, finding the enemy, providing battlefields, casket-drone remotes have lost
information on the battlefield, and giving a greater some of their life-or-death importance since
range to the Haqqislamite hackers. the introduction of Cube technology but remain
essential for medically stable transit. Named for a
Quadrupedal and based on the same proven Norse Valkyrie who carried the slain to Valhalla, the
chassis as the Fanous, Shihab, and Shaytaniyah, the Randgrid is an excellent representative of modern
Rafiq fills a very specific battlefield role: forward casket-drone design. Oblong and rectangular, it
observation. There are few remotes so well-crafted resembles a soft-edged casket with a pair of
to fulfil their purpose as the Rafiq. Satellite links, extensible waldos and a jet-rotor at each corner.
advanced sensor arrays, and communications Sides and lid can retract for easier loading and care,
equipment enable it to spot and paint any a smart-material interior accommodates patients
enemy within range, allowing allies to rain fiery of nearly any size, and a built-in AutoMediKit and
destruction on enemy positions with impunity. eight-Serum reserve do everything possible to
ensure survival, spending maximum Serum each
TROOPER test until the patient is stable (no longer suffering
from conditions besides unconsciousness).
RAFIQ
TROOPER
ATTRIBUTES
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL RANDGRID CASKET-DRONE
7 10 7 10 10 4 8
ATTRIBUTES
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
Combat +2 — Movement — — Social — — 9 9 9 9 12 6 9
Fortitude — — Senses +1 — Technical +2 1
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Combat — — Movement +2 2 Social — —
HARDPOINTS
Fortitude +1 1 Senses +1 1 Technical +2 2
Chassis 0, Comms 0 (Sensor Suite), External 0 (2x Sniffer Pod 2), Internal,
Limbs 0 (Deactivator Kit), Motive 0, Weapons 0
HARDPOINTS
DEFENCES Chassis 1, Comms 1, External 0, Internal 0 (AutoMediKit), Limbs 0
Firewall 6 Resolve 4 Structure 4 (2x Basic Waldos, VT-Rotors 2), Motive 1, Weapons 0
Security 2 Morale — Armour —
DEFENCES
ATTACKS: Firewall 12 Resolve 8 Structure 8
MOUNTED WEAPONRY
Security 2 Morale — Armour 0
Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+4§ damage, Immobilising, Stun
LOADOUT ALPHA SPECIAL ABILITIES
Rifle: Range M, 1+7§ damage, Burst 2, 2H, MULTI Light Mod, Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 2, Hover, Remote
Vicious 1 Valkyrie: AutoMediKit Treat tests use a target number of 12 when
controlled by its native LAI.
Light Shotgun: Range C, 1+7 §, Burst 1, Unbalanced, Knockdown
Bedrest: If a Fault is suffered from an attack or impact, the patient (if
LOADOUT BETA
any) suffers only 2+2§ Spread 1 Stun damage.
Red Fury: Range M, 1+7§ damage, Burst 3, 2H, Shock Ammo,
Spread 2, Grievous, Unsubtle, Vicious 1 Licensure: With at least one career phase as a Bounty Hunter, Remote
Operator, Medical, or Police, only Restriction 1 and Tariff 1 is required
GEAR: Deactivator Kit, Sensor Suite, 2x Sniffer Pod 2 to acquire.
SPECIAL ABILITIES Take Flight: As a Minor Action, can move to a zone within Long range
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 2, Advanced Sensors, on the ground or the zone above in the air and, if it starts its turn
Fast (0 Heat), Remote, Sat-Lock airborne, moves as a Vector 2/Thrust 4 Aircraft.

Remote Assistance 81
 REBOT, DALETH REBOT, LAMEDH
The Daleth Rebot design is quadrupedal and Operating low to the ground on its four limbs,
spider-like, with a low centre of gravity and the Lamedh Rebot is a variation of the extremely
fast reflexive movement capabilities. It moves successful Rebot series of ALEPH SSS remotes.
forward of an armed force, using complex sensor With speed and stealth, it is perfect for placing
and satellite suites to identify and tag enemy and monitoring sensor fields. The model is a
combatants wherever they may be hiding and feed terrain specialist, devoting a significant portion
that information back to allied troops in real time. of its processing power to software analysis of
Few remotes can compete with, much less best, its surroundings to maximise mobility in any
the Daleth Rebot in this role, and widespread use environment. Rumour suggests that a black-market
by the Special Situation Section allows real-time knockoff has seen use in Submondo circles, staking
battlefield comprehension — and domination. out and monitoring key areas, buildings, or rooms
for clandestine meetings and exchanges.
TROOPER
TROOPER
DALETH REBOT
LAMEDH REBOT
ATTRIBUTES
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL ATTRIBUTES
10 9 7 9 10 4 7 AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
14 (+1) 10 7 10 7 5 4
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Combat +2 — Movement — — Social — — FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Fortitude — — Senses +1 — Technical +2 1 Combat +2 — Movement +2 — Social — —
Fortitude — — Senses +1 — Technical +1 —
HARDPOINTS
Chassis 0, Comms 0 (Sensor Suite), External 0 (2x Sniffer Pod 2), Internal, HARDPOINTS
Limbs 0 (Deactivator Kit), Motive 0, Weapons 0 Chassis 0, Comms 0, External 0 (Sniffer Pods 2), Limbs 0, Motive 0,
Weapons 0
DEFENCES
Firewall 6 Resolve 4 Structure 4 DEFENCES
Security 2 Morale — Armour — Firewall 4 Resolve 2 Structure 4
Security 2 Morale — Armour —
ATTACKS:
Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+4§ damage, Immobilising, Stun ATTACKS:
Combi Rifle: Range C/M, 1+6§ damage, Burst 2, 2H, Expert 1, MULTI Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+4§ damage, Immobilising, Stun
Light Mod, Vicious 1 Flash Pulse: Range M, 1+5§ damage, Burst 1, 2H, Blinding, removes
GEAR: Climbing Plus, Deactivator Kit, Sensor Suite, 2x Sniffer Pod 2 Marked
SPECIAL ABILITIES GEAR: Chameleonware, Sniffer Pods 2
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 2, Advanced Sensors, Fast SPECIAL ABILITIES
(2 Heat), Remote, Sat-Lock Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 2, Fast 0, Remote, Super-
human Agility 1, Terrain Specialist (All)
Multiterrain: The Lamedh Rebot reduces penalties from gravity zones,
and difficult or hazardous terrain by one step.

82 Chapter 4
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

REBOT, SAMEKH
With the same core design as the other remotes
in ALEPH’s heavily used Rebot series, the Samekh
provides field support as a weapons platform. A
demonstration of the Rebot line’s variability, it
lacks the mobility of other variations in favour
of systems optimised for ranged support on the
battlefield. Ideally paired with other remotes in the
series for full-spectrum sensory feeds to make the
most of its missile systems, the Samekh is a fragile
and deadly accurate support remote.

TROOPER

TROOPER SAMEKH REBOT

LAMEDH KNOCKOFF ATTRIBUTES
ATTRIBUTES AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL

AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL 8 9 8 12 (+1) 7 4 8

12 (+1) 9 7 9 7 5 4 FIELDS OF EXPERTISE

FIELDS OF EXPERTISE Combat +2 1 Movement +1 — Social — —

Combat +1 — Movement +1 — Social — — Fortitude +1 — Senses +1 — Technical — —

Fortitude — — Senses +1 — Technical +1 —

HARDPOINTS
HARDPOINTS Chassis 0, Comms 0, External 0, Limbs 0, Motive 0, Weapons 0 (Smart
Missile Launcher)
Chassis 0, Comms 0, External 0 (Sniffer Pods 2), Limbs 0, Motive 0,
Weapons 0 DEFENCES
DEFENCES Firewall 4 Resolve 4 Structure 4

Firewall 4 Resolve 2 Structure 4 Security 2 Morale — Armour —

Security 2 Morale — Armour — ATTACKS:

ATTACKS: Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+4§ damage, Immobilising, Stun

Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+4§ damage, Immobilising, Stun Smart Missile Launcher: Range L, 2+11§ damage, Burst 1, Unwieldy,
Expert 1, Guided, Munition, Unforgiving 2
Flash Pulse: Range M, 1+5§ damage, Burst 1, 2H, Blinding, removes
Marked GEAR: 4 Heavy Reloads (See Locked and Loaded ability.)

GEAR: Chameleonware, Sniffer Pods 2 SPECIAL ABILITIES

SPECIAL ABILITIES Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 2, Fast (2 Heat), Remote,
Superhuman Coordination 1
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 1, Fast 0, Remote,
Terrain Specialist (All) Locked and Loaded: 1 Heat provides 2 Reloads beyond the default
4-Reload magazine, and default capacity can be doubled with a Tech
Multiterrain: The Lamedh knockoff reduces penalties from gravity (D4) test.
zones by one step.

Remote Assistance 83
 REBOT, ZAYIN ROSIEBOT
Another of the highly flexible Rebot line of remotes From oversized toys to humanoid forms and giant
utilised by ALEPH’s Special Situation Section, animals, the RosieBot is the ultimate answer to
the Zayin is designed specifically for mobile fire the age-old problem of finding a reliable baby-
support with its heavy machine gun. Like the sitter. Capable of looking after children of all ages,
Samekh, the Zayin’s software package is geared preparing food, and providing entertainment, they
around target acquisition and elimination, capable are also universally rugged in construction beneath
of finding a perch in any battlefield to rain down padded exteriors. Armed with a mild flash pulse
hell on the enemy. The model is widely used both to protect their wards, they are manufactured by a
to support battlefield advances and hold seized large variety of companies, ranging from cheap and
ground afterwards. Especially dangerous in dense functional units used in demogrant child care to
environments such as Paradiso’s jungles and urban bespoke family specific designs. Each has a native
conflicts, the Zayin is a rightly feared component of LAI purpose-built for their duties, but they can be
the SSS arsenal. seamlessly suborned by a parent’s geist, or the
parent themselves, if required.
TROOPER
TROOPER
ZAYIN REBOT
ROSIEBOT
ATTRIBUTES
ATTRIBUTES
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
8 9 8 12 (+1) 7 4 8
7 9 9 7 8 9 7
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Combat +2 1 Movement +1 — Social — —
Combat +1 — Movement +1 — Social +1 —
Fortitude +1 — Senses +1 — Technical — —
Fortitude +1 — Senses +2 — Technical — —

HARDPOINTS
HARDPOINTS
Chassis 0, Comms 0, External 0, Limbs 0, Motive 0, Weapons 0, Overhaul
Chassis 0, Comms 0 (Comlog), External 0, Limbs 0 (2x Basic Waldos),
(Eyepaint)
Motive 0, Weapons 0
DEFENCES
DEFENCES
Firewall 4 Resolve 4 Structure 4
Firewall 5 Resolve 7 Structure 9
Security 2 Morale — Armour —
Security 1 Morale 1 Armour 1
ATTACKS:
ATTACKS:
Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+4§ damage, Immobilising, Stun
Flash Pulsette: Range M, 1+3§ damage, Burst 1, 2H, Blinding
Combi Rifle: Range C/M, 1+6§ damage, Burst 2, 2H, Expert 1, MULTI
Light Mod, Vicious 1 GEAR: Comlog, Basic Medical Supplies
Heavy Machine Gun: Range L, 2+10§ damage, Burst 3, Unwieldy, SPECIAL ABILITIES
Spread 1, Unsubtle Common Special Abilities: Remote
GEAR: 4 Normal Reloads, Climbing Plus Caregiver: The native LAI suite is designed specifically for childcare
SPECIAL ABILITIES and entertainment and gains +1 Ranks of Expertise and Focus on any
Social or Technical test involved with household chores, entertainment,
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 2, Climber, Fast (2 Heat), or rudimentary medical care.
Remote, Superhuman Coordination 1, Total Reaction

84 Chapter 4
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

RUDRAS GUNBOT RUI SHI

Squatting low over a powerful quadrupedal motive The result of serious investments in advanced
system, with a distinctive power system held at optics to better stalk the StateEmpire’s prey,
the rear like a scorpion’s tail, the Rudras GunBot is the StateArmy’s Rui Shi hunter/killer prioritises
a heavy hitter. Compatible with any one of three speed and accuracy over heavy armour. They are
powerful weapon systems, the design differs from surprisingly swift despite their squat 4-legged
other SSS remote designs with a strong emphasis construction, and their integrated repeater means
on survivability. It is heavily armoured, with a they can carry loyal infowarriors’ quantronic fury
highly advanced fractal-hierarchy firewall, and a into the teeth of the enemy in addition to their
mine dispenser that makes it a real danger even integrated dual spitfires’ rapid-fire accuracy.
against TAGs or entire fireteams. By taking up firing
positions on elevated vertical surfaces the GunBot TROOPER
can extend its threat across the entire battlefield.
RUI SHI
ELITE ATTRIBUTES
RUDRAS GUNBOT AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
10 10 10 10 10 6 7
ATTRIBUTES FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL Combat +2 +2 Movement +1 +1 Social — —
9 9 9 13 (+1) 10 4 9
Fortitude +1 +1 Senses +1 +1 Technical +1 1
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Combat +3 +2 Movement +2 +2 Social — — HARDPOINTS
Fortitude — — Senses +2 +1 Technical — — Chassis 1, Comms 0 (MSV 2, repeater), External 1,
Internal 1, Limbs 0, Motive 1, Weapons 0
HARDPOINTS DEFENCES
Chassis 0, Comms 0 (Repeater), External 0 (Climbing Plus, Mine Dispens- Firewall 1O Resolve 8 Structure 12
er), Limbs 0, Motive 0, Weapons 0
Security — Morale — Armour 0
DEFENCES ATTACKS:
Firewall 10 Resolve 9 Structure 9
Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+6§ damage, Immobilising, Stun
Security 4 Morale — Armour 3
2x Spitfire: Range M, 1+7§ damage, Burst 3, 2H, Spread 2, Unsubtle 2
ATTACKS: GEAR: MSV 2, Repeater (Firewall 12, Security 3)
MOUNTED WEAPONS SPECIAL ABILITIES
Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+5§ damage, Immobilising, Stun Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 2/3, Fast (2 Heat), Remote
3x Antipersonnel Mines: Mine, 2+5§ damage, 1H, Comms, Cutting-Edge Repeater: A Changhe Dynamics RTS-12 (Firewall 12,
Disposable, Indiscriminate (Close), Spread 1, Terrifying 1, Unsubtle Security 3) that requires 3 Breaches to disable or suborn.
LOADOUT ALPHA Hunter/Killer: Gains Advanced Security 3 when stalking a target or in
MULTI Rifle: Range C/M, 1+9§ damage, Burst 2/2, Expert 1, combat.
Medium MULTI, MULTI Light Mod, Vicious 1
LOADOUT BETA
K1 Marksman Rifle: Range M, 1+9§ damage, Burst 2, 2H, Anti-
Materiel 2, Monofilament
LOADOUT CHARLIE
(C) Red Fury: Range M, 1+9§ damage, Burst 3, Unbalanced, Biotech,
Grievous
GEAR: Climbing Plus, Repeater
SPECIAL ABILITIES
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 2, Fast (2 Heat),
Remote, Superhuman Coordination 1

Remote Assistance 85
 SHAYTANIYAH SHIHAB
Designed to provide long-range artillery support, Shihab was the name given to a meteorite, a
the Shaytaniyah, or Diabolicals, are mobile fragment of a shooting star, with the capacity
quadrupedal remotes regularly deployed in for killing djinns. Designed to use overwhelming
Haqqislamite fireteams. Often paired with remotes firepower to control an area, the Shihab (older
relaying sensory and targeting information, such as versions may be referred to as Shilab) are solid
the Rafiq, the Shaytaniyah bombards enemies at a and dependable remotes designed for guard duty.
distance. Built around the same chassis and motive A variant on a commonly used chassis and motive
as many other Haqqislamite remotes, such as the system, it is a common sight on any frontline the
Fanous, Rafiq, and Shihab lines, the commonality Sword of Allah holds. In more recent times, the
makes all four remotes easy to modify and repair in Shihab, or convincing knockoffs, have also found a
the field. The locally designed Mızrak smart missile place among corsairs, criminal organisations, and
system variant is tightly restricted to Haqqislam powerful Submondo groups as deadly guard-dogs.
nationals and well-trusted allies.
TROOPER
TROOPER
SHIHAB
SHAYTANIYAH
ATTRIBUTES
ATTRIBUTES AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL 8 8 9 11 8 4 8
7 8 9 12 7 4 8 FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE Combat +2 1 Movement +1 1 Social — —
Combat +2 1 Movement +1 — Social — — Fortitude — — Senses +1 — Technical — —
Fortitude +1 — Senses +1 — Technical — —
HARDPOINTS
HARDPOINTS Chassis 0, Comms 1, External 0, Limbs 0, Motive 0, Weapons 0, Overhaul
Chassis 0, Comms 1, External 0, Internal, Limbs 0, Motive 0, Weapons 0 (Eyepaint)

DEFENCES DEFENCES
Firewall 4 Resolve 4 Structure 5 Firewall 4 Resolve 4 Structure 5
Security 2 Morale — Armour — Security 2 Morale — Armour —

ATTACKS: ATTACKS:
Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+5§ damage, Immobilising, Stun Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+5§ damage, Immobilising, Stun
(A) Missile Launcher: Range L, 2+10§ damage, Burst 1, Unwieldy, HMG: Range L, 2+8 § damage, Burst 3, Unwieldy, Spread 1, Unsubtle
Munition SPECIAL ABILITIES
(B) Mızrak Missile Launcher: Range L, 2+10§ damage, Burst 1, Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 2/3, Fast (2 Heat),
Unwieldy, Expert 1, Grievous, Guided, Munition Remote, Total Reaction
GEAR: 4 Heavy Reloads Guard: +3 Security Soak while attacking an enemy it is first to detect
SPECIAL ABILITIES or reveal.
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 2, Fast (2 Heat), Remote

86 Chapter 4
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

SNIFFERBOT X
Designed to patrol spaceports, orbitals, and
transportation hubs, and also widely used by police
and security patrols and guards, the Snifferbot
comes in a wide variety of shapes and forms.
Their housings most commonly resemble animals,
particularly dogs, to put the public at ease and
herald back to the days of customs dogs. Some
hover, others are wheeled, but the vast majority
are quadrupedal. All can operate autonomously,
patrolling a beat set down by their operational
parameters and adjusted as required by their
native LAI or by an operator. They are typically
deployed as a part of a team, with others ready
SPOTBOT
Every sniper needs a spotter, but you can’t always
count on someone else to watch your back. Luckily,
there’s a remote for that. Dozens of them, in fact.
Most differ only in casing aesthetics and have
been released just in the last few years during
a brief period of relaxed patent enforcement on
ODD systems. Epitomised by the lightweight and
portable Stellatech Spotbot Lapinette-3, they
have also caught on as stealthy sensor remotes,
providing surveillance and recording in a compact
and comparably affordable package.
TROOPER

to respond should they notice anything out of SPOTBOT

the ordinary.
ATTRIBUTES
TROOPER
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
SNIFFERBOT X 8 12 6 6 12 6 6

ATTRIBUTES FIELDS OF EXPERTISE

AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL Combat — — Movement +1 — Social — —
8 9 8 8 10 6 7 Fortitude — — Senses +2 2 Technical +1 —

FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
HARDPOINTS
Combat +1 — Movement — — Social — —
Chassis 0, Comms 1, External 0 (ODD, Recorder), Limbs 0, Motive 0,
Fortitude — — Senses +2 1 Technical +2 — Weapons 0

HARDPOINTS DEFENCES
Firewall 6 Resolve 3 Structure 3
Chassis 0, Comms 0 (Bioscanner, X Sensor Suites), External 0
(Sniffer Pods X), Limbs 0, Motive 1, Weapons 0 Security 2 Morale — Armour 1

DEFENCES ATTACKS:
Firewall 10 Resolve 7 Structure 8 Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+4§§§ damage, Immobilising, Stun
Security 2 Morale — Armour — Flash Pulse: Range M, 1+8§§ damage, Burst 1, 2H, Blinding,
removes Marked
ATTACKS:
GEAR: Optical Disruption Device, Recorder
Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+4§ damage, Immobilising, Stun
SPECIAL ABILITIES
GEAR: Bioscanner, Sensor Suite (choose X from [Explosives,
Common Special Abilities: Remote
Weapons, Drugs, Poisons]), Sniffer Pods X
Semi-Autonomous Spotter: A Spotbot typically has one job: spot-
SPECIAL ABILITIES
ting. Turns out, they’re good at it. When operating autonomously and
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 1, Quad-Legs Remote controlled by a geist or its native LAI, it can take no actions to stick
Security Remote: Advanced Security 2 when the remote detects close and move with its user, adding 1 Momentum to successful
something suspicious. Observation and Attack tests, and Defence Reactions the user makes.

Remote Assistance 87
 SPUTNIK, LUNOKHOD SPUTNIK, TSYKLON
While the NMF has relied on remotes since
its inception, the NeoColonial Wars strongly
demonstrated their tactical potential for tirelessly
outpacing and outmanoeuvring opposition. They
rarely lasted long in direct combat, leading to the
Sputnik series of improvements – added mobility
systems, increased armour and quantronic defences,
and most importantly cost-saving fabrication
updates that allowed for widespread manufacture
and deployment. Their dense bulk is ideal for
rapid assaults.
The Lunokhod model (Russian for “moonwalker”),
in particular, is made to probe and outflank its
opposition, bypassing mines and sensor defences
to strike at the enemy’s rear and supply lines with a
potent array of close-range weaponry.
The Tsyklon (Russian for “cyclone”) model shares
the same chassis and overall design philosophy
as the Lunokhod, optimised as a precise firepower
platform able to extend friendly infowarriors’ reach.
To defend that reach, its LAI-seed is continually
reviewed and patched by Tunguska’s hacking
experts against new exploits and infowar tactics.
Updates are provided daily via Arachne for Tsyklon
owners (and more irregularly for Lunokhods).
Its eyepaint vision systems can disorient even
skilled operators, however, limiting its popularity
to the proud few who can handle the barrage of
visual data.
ELITE

ELITE
TSYKLON SPUTNIK

LUNOKHOD SPUTNIK ATTRIBUTES

AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
ATTRIBUTES 11 12 8 11 8 5 8
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
11 10 8 10 11 5 8
Combat +3 1 Movement +3 1 Social — —
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE Fortitude — — Senses +3 1 Technical — —
Combat +2 1 Movement +2 1 Social — —
Fortitude — — Senses +1 1 Technical +2 2 HARDPOINTS
Chassis 1, Comms 1 (Repeater), External 0, Internal 1, Limbs 0, Motive 0,
HARDPOINTS Weapons 0, Overhaul (Eyepaint)
Chassis 1, Comms 1 (Repeater), External 0, Internal 1, Limbs 0 (Deactiva- DEFENCES
tor Kit), Motive 0, Weapons 0
Firewall 13 Resolve 8 Structure 8
DEFENCES Security — Morale — Armour 0
Firewall 13 Resolve 8 Structure 8
ATTACKS:
Security — Morale — Armour 0
Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+4§ damage, Immobilising, Stun
ATTACKS: Pitcher: Range M, Burst 1, Munition, Speculative Fire
Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+4§ damage, Immobilising, Stun Spitfire: Range M, 1+7§ damage, Burst 3, Spread 2, Unsubtle
Heavy Shotgun: Range C, 2+7 § damage, Burst 1, Knockdown GEAR: Repeater
Normal Shells Mode (Primary): Area (Close), Spread 1 SPECIAL ABILITIES
AP Slugs Mode (Secondary): Piercing 3 Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 4, Climber, Fast (2 Heat),
Heavy Flamethrower: Range C, 2+7§ damage, Burst 1, 2H, Incendiary Remote
3, Munition, Terrifying 2, Torrent Arachne-Eyed: The Tsyklon can see in all directions, granting a bonus
GEAR: Climbing Plus, Deactivator Kit, Repeater d20 on Observation tests. Remote pilots add +2 complication range
unless they have at least Pilot Focus 2.
SPECIAL ABILITIES
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 3, EOD, Fast (2 Heat),
Remote
Zero-G Security Wall: The Lunokhod gains Advanced Security 4 when
in zero-g.

88 Chapter 4
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

TINBOT TOUR GUIDE

Affordable, portable, and uniformly adorable, the
winsome TinBot is a favourite among hackers
and soldiers, as well as a popular shell for civilian
geists. Not terribly useful by themselves, TinBots
earn their keep by relaying useful information to
their users and (mostly) not getting underfoot.
Moto.Tronica produces the original TinBot™, but
the term has become synonymous with semi-
autonomous personal assistance remotes, and
many corporations produce their own variants.
While the augmented reality offered by a personal
patina or a software update to a personal geist
is often more than enough to satisfy an ordinary
tourist, the Tour Guide is specifically designed
to take guests to places where they could
never reach unaided. Whether the terrain is
difficult, the environment deadly, or the wildlife
voracious, the use of a Tour Guide enables a pair
of tourists to venture into places and see sights
usually only reserved for those with specialised
equipment, training, and knowledge. Able to feed
the passenger a continual information feed and
augmented experience through a patina link up,
Tour Guides are the ultimate way to experience
those rare destinations most can only dream
of visiting.

A Tour Guide is purchased with a motive and

environmental system tailored to a specific
environment. On Svaralheima, this means a tracked
motive system, heavy insulation, and powerful
heaters. On Paradiso, it means a quadrupedal
motive system, extra layer of armour, and an
upgraded weapons loadout. Each location or
environment requires a specific set of design and
safety parameters.

TROOPER TROOPER

TINBOT TOUR GUIDE

ATTRIBUTES ATTRIBUTES
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
10 10 5 9 10 6 6 8 9 9 7 9 8 6
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Combat +1 — Movement +1 1 Social — — Combat +1 — Movement +2 1 Social +1 —
Fortitude — — Senses +1 1 Technical +1 — Fortitude — — Senses +1 1 Technical — —

HARDPOINTS HARDPOINTS
Chassis 0, Comms 0 (Deflector-1), External 0, Limbs 0, Motive 0, Weapons Chassis 1, Comms 0, External 2, Internal 0, Limbs 2, Motive 2, Weapons 0
0
DEFENCES
DEFENCES Firewall 9 Resolve 6 Structure 9
Firewall 5 Resolve 3 Structure 3 Security 2 Morale — Armour 2
Security — Morale 4 Armour —
ATTACKS:
ATTACKS:
Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+4§§§ damage, Immobilising, Stun
Stun Attachment: Melee, 1+4§ damage, 1H, Knockdown, Subtle 1,
GEAR:
Stun
SPECIAL ABILITIES
GEAR: Deflector-1
Common Special Abilities: Passengers 2, Remote
SPECIAL ABILITIES
Highly Specialised: When purchasing or using a Tour Guide, it will be
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 4, Remote
designed for use within a specific environment and location. Within
Tin It to Win It: A TinBot always has your back. When assisted by a that locale, its Fortitude, Movement, Sensors, and Social Fields of
TinBot, the leader of a test may reroll 1d20 but must accept the new Expertise gain +1 Expertise and Focus.
result.

Remote Assistance 89
 TRAKTOR MUL V.U.BOT
The size of a small car, these crude Ariadnan Designated the V.U.Bot, or Very Useful Bot, these
remotes are driven with a dedicated 2-handed small, quadrupedal remotes are widely used
control device, though they can manage basic throughout the Human Sphere as a kind of
wayfinding on their own. Often used for materiel autonomous pack animal. Capable of carrying
transport or as a mobile artillery platform, sizeable loads, given their size, and able to follow
their narrow profile, fuel-efficient engines, and or range forward from their owners, they are often
manoeuvrable tank treads are well-adapted for used for short haulage by individuals who don’t
rapid movement through Dawn’s dense forests want the trouble of carrying their own luggage, by
and steep mountains. Since they are specifically scientific teams for transporting heavy equipment,
designed for it, actions taken using remote control and a myriad of other applications. About the
only suffer penalties if the user is at Extreme range size of a large dog, the V.U.Bot is as simple as a
from the Traktor. Their lack of a true LAI means that quadrupedal motive system, main body, and a
unless remotely controlled, they can only move and rectangular carrying tray.
attack if equipped with a weapon but cannot take
more complicated actions.
TROOPER
TROOPER
V.U.BOT
TRAKTOR MUL
ATTRIBUTES
ATTRIBUTES AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL 8 8 10 (+2) 8 8 6 8
8 9 12 (+2) 10 7 5 5
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE Combat — — Movement +2 1 Social — —
Combat +1 — Movement +2 +2 Social — — Fortitude +2 1 Senses — — Technical — —
Fortitude — — Senses +1 — Technical — —
HARDPOINTS
HARDPOINTS Chassis 1, Comms 0, External 2, Internal 0, Limbs 0, Motive 0, Weapons 0,
Chassis 1, Comms 0 (Binoculars), External 0 (Recorder), Internal 2, Limbs 0 Overhaul (Compartment 2)
(SwapSocket x2), Motive 1, Weapons 0
DEFENCES
DEFENCES Firewall 8 Resolve 8 Structure 10
Firewall 4 Resolve 4 Structure 8 Security 2 Morale — Armour -
Security 1 Morale — Armour 2
ATTACKS: None
GEAR: Binoculars, Recorder
GEAR: None
SPECIAL ABILITIES
SPECIAL ABILITIES
Common Special Abilities: Remote, Superhuman Brawn 2
Common Special Abilities: Quad-Legs, Remote, Superhuman Brawn 2,
Dual Socket Mounts: Traktor Muls are sold without limbs. Filling only Trusted Messenger
one SwapSocket or installing two non-identical limbs unbalances the
Mul, adding +1 difficulty to Agility tests. Pack Animal: The V.U.Bot is capable of carrying loads of up to 200kg,
although they are usually only the size of a large dog and whatever
Stable: A low centre of gravity and dynamic tread system grant a bonus they are loaded with cannot overflow its carrying platform.
1d20 on tests to avoid being knocked prone.

90 Chapter 4
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

YÁOKÒNG YÁOKÒNG, SON-BAE

The versatile Yáokòng series of remotes comes
in several different configurations— the Wèibīng
mobile guardian, Hùsòng heavy escort, and several
more besides — making them a popular fixture in
the Yu Jingese military as well as intrepid tinkerers
who’ve gotten their hands on these incredibly
modular platforms.
ELITE
YÁOKÒNG
The Yáokòng StateArmy support unit’s Son-Bae
variant is a lightly armoured high-capacity missile
support platform, unconcerned with frontline
dangers. Often supported by the Wèibīng variant
of the series, it is ideally suited for protected rear-
guard placement, raining fiery destruction on the
enemy by leveraging ally-provided telemetry for
precise placement. The Kōryo variant’s bulky smart
missile system is restricted to influential Yujingyu
citizens or buyers willing to pay an eye-watering
premium for the privilege.

ATTRIBUTES
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
10 10 10 10 8 7 8
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE ELITE
Combat +2 2 Movement +1 1 Social — —
SON-BAE YÁOKÒNG
Fortitude +1 1 Senses +2 2 Technical — —
ATTRIBUTES
HARDPOINTS AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
Chassis 0, Comms 0, External 0 (1x Sniffer), Limbs 0, Motive 0, Weapons 0 10 10 10 12 8 6 7
DEFENCES FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Firewall 8 Resolve 8 Structure 10 Combat +2 2 Movement +1 1 Social — —
Security — Morale 2 Armour 2
Fortitude +1 1 Senses +2 2 Technical — —
ATTACKS:
Slam: Melee, 1+6§ damage, Anti-Materiel, Knockdown, Vicious 1 HARDPOINTS
Combi Rifle: Range C/M, 1+7§ damage, Burst 2, 2H, Comms, Expert 1, Chassis 0, Comms 0, External 0 (1x Sniffer), Limbs 0, Motive 0, Weapons 0
Vicious 1 DEFENCES
Loadout A Firewall 8 Resolve 7 Structure 10
Heavy Machine Gun: Range L, 2+8§ damage, Burst 5, Unwieldy, Security 3 Morale — Armour -
Spread 1, Unsubtle
ATTACKS:
Loadout B MOUNTED WEAPONS
Missile Launcher: Range L, 2+7§ damage, Burst 1, Unwieldy, Munition Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+6§ damage, Immobilising, Stun
GEAR: Sensor Suite (Infrared Cameras), plus one of the two Loadout -
LOADOUT (KŌORYO)
options above
Missile Launcher: Range L, 2+10§ damage, Burst 1, Unwieldy, Heavy
SPECIAL ABILITIES Ammo, Guided, Munition, Expert 2 vs Marked targets
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 2, Inured to Disease, LOADOUT (MAGOSUNG)
Poison, and Vacuum
Missile Launcher: Range L, 2+10§ damage, Burst 1, Unwieldy, Heavy
Ammo, Munition
GEAR: 3 Heavy Reloads (Magosung), 5 Heavy Reloads ( Kōryo),
SPECIAL ABILITIES
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 2, Fast (2 Heat), Remote
Archer: Advanced Security 3 when an enemy detected or when bom-
barding Marked targets.
Quadrupedal Mobility: Can move to a zone within Long range as a
Minor Action, or for 2 Heat, as a Free Action.

Remote Assistance 91
 ZOND, METEOR ZOND, REAKTION
A large number of Nomad remotes are categorised Sharing a chassis and quadrupedal motive system
under the term Zond. In any other military, this with the Vertigo Zond, the Reaktion Zond takes
would indicate a series sharing a core design, but battlefield domination to a new level. Capable of
this is not the case with this particular designation. scaling walls with as much ease as crossing level
Zond is an old Russian name for unidentified terrain, the Reaktion Zond takes a commanding
flying objects, and while some units have design position on the battlefield from which to unleash
similarities, none apply to all. The Meteor Zond a brutal hail of bullets. They are widely used by
utilises a similar chassis to the Vertigo and both the NMF and Submondo groups as a ferocious
Reaktion Zonds, for example, but its hover system guard dog that never sleeps.
is unlike any other Nomad remote, designed for
forward support and equipped with advanced TROOPER
sensor and communications systems for real-time
REAKTION ZOND
battlefield telemetry feeds to allied units. It has
also been known to be used by Submondo and ATTRIBUTES
pirate groups as a lookout and as a scout vessel in
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
ship-to-ship assaults.
8 9 9 10 8 4 8
TROOPER
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
METEOR ZOND Combat +2 1 Movement +1 1 Social — —
Fortitude — — Senses +1 — Technical — —
ATTRIBUTES
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL HARDPOINTS
9 10 8 7 10 4 8 Chassis 0, Comms 0, External 0, Limbs 0, Motive 0, Weapons 0, Overhaul
(Eyepaint)
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Combat +2 1 Movement — — Social — — DEFENCES
Fortitude — — Senses +2 1 Technical — — Firewall 4 Resolve 4 Structure 5
Security 2 Morale — Armour —
HARDPOINTS ATTACKS:
Chassis 0, Comms 0 (Sensor Suite, Repeater), External 0 (Combat Jump Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+5 § damage, Immobilising, Stun
Pack), Internal, Limbs 0, Motive 0, Weapons 0
HMG: Range L, 2+8 § damage, Burst 3, Unwieldy, Spread 1, Unsubtle
DEFENCES SPECIAL ABILITIES
Firewall 5 Resolve 4 Structure 4 Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 2/3, Climber, Fast (2
Security 2 Morale — Armour — Heat), Remote, Total Reaction
ATTACKS: Arachne-Powered Sentry: Gains Advanced Security 3 while attacking
an enemy it is first to detect or reveal.
Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+4 § damage, Immobilising, Stun
Combi Rifle: Range C/M, 1+5 § damage, Burst 2, 2H, Expert 1, MULTI
Light Mod, Vicious 1
GEAR: Combat Jump Pack, Repeater
SPECIAL ABILITIES
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 2, Advanced Sensors,
Hover, Remote, Sat-Lock

92 Chapter 4
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

ZOND, SALYUT ZOND, STEMPLER

Often fielded in two varieties, either a minesweeper Built around the same chassis and motive systems
or the more common lightly armed support as Reaktion and Vertigo Zonds, the Stempler’s
platform, the Salyut Zond is a faithful and reliable quadrupedal legs and unique wheel and claw foot
baggage remote. Widely used by the Nomad system provide the remote a commanding view
Military Force, by corporations transporting over any battlefield. Designed especially for use
data and other potable items, and by Submondo in both confined urban areas and ship interiors, it
Struktura Families, it sees use in most Nomad can also cling to and scale vertical skyscrapers and
combat zones, and across their habitats, ships, and hull exteriors with ease. From these advantageous
motherships. Well protected, and with hard to crack positions, its advanced sensors and sat-link can
concealed compartments, the Salyut delivers. liaise with other units for coordinated long-range
fire on concealed enemy positions and on targets
TROOPER attempting to sneak by. Often deployed by private
security forces and Submondo groups as a reliable
SALYUT ZOND mobile sensor, it is in high demand on Caravanserai
ATTRIBUTES and Commercial Mission remote lots.
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
TROOPER
8 9 9 9 9 4 8
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
STEMPLER ZOND
Combat +2 — Movement +2 1 Social — — ATTRIBUTES
Fortitude +1 — Senses — — Technical — — AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
9 10 8 8 10 4 7
HARDPOINTS
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Chassis 1, Comms 0 (Repeater), External 1, Internal 1, Limbs 0, Motive 0,
Weapons 1, Overhaul (Compartments 2) Combat +1 — Movement +1 — Social — —
Fortitude — — Senses +2 1 Technical +1 —
DEFENCES
Firewall 5 Resolve 4 Structure 5
HARDPOINTS
Security 2 Morale — Armour 2
Chassis 0, Comms 0 (Sensor Suite), External 0 (Sniffer Pod 2), Internal,
ATTACKS: Limbs 0 (Deactivator Kit), Motive 0, Weapons 0
Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+5§ damage, Immobilising, Stun DEFENCES
STANDARD LOADOUT Firewall 5 Resolve 4 Structure 5
Combi Rifle: Range C/M, 1+6§ damage, Burst 2, 2H, Expert 1, MULTI Security 2 Morale — Armour —
Light Mod, Vicious 1 ATTACKS:
GEAR: Repeater, Deactivator Kit (Minesweeper only) Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+4§§§ damage, Immobilising, Stun
SPECIAL ABILITIES Combi Rifle: Range C/M, 1+5§ damage, Burst 2, 2H, Expert 1, MULTI
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 1/2, EOD(Minesweeper Light Mod, Vicious 1
only), Fast (2 Heat), Remote, Total Reaction, Trusted Messenger GEAR: Deactivator Kit, Repeater, Sniffer 2
Arachne-Powered Hauler: When Compartments are sealed for transit, SPECIAL ABILITIES
the Salyut gains Advanced Security 2
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 2, Advanced Sensors,
Climber, Fast (2 Heat), Remote, Sat-Lock

Remote Assistance 93
 ZOND, TRANSDUCTOR ZOND, VERTIGO
A variant of the same chassis and motive system A variant of the same chassis as the Reaktion,
used for the Reaktion, Stempler, and Vertigo Zond Stempler, and Transductor Zond, the Vertigo is a
lines, the Transductor is ideally suited to scouting support remote armed with smart missiles capable
and laying a sensor field in front of an advancing of tracking and targeting even well-concealed
force or to monitor a chokepoint. With Sniffer foes. Ideally paired with a specialised spotter like
Pods programmable to identify a range of specific the Stempler Zond, it offers highly accurate long-
particles or signals, they excel at rooting out range firepower. It is the only Zond variant solely
hidden enemies, illegal narcotics manufacturing restricted to Nomad Military Force use, but this
facilities, or weapons and ordnance from even the hasn’t prevented knockoffs and salvaged models
most minute traces. While the Transductor has seen from appearing on black markets.
wide use on the battlefield, its use by corporate,
security, and Submondo groups far outstrips any TROOPER
military application. Even Weltenbummler Cruises
company has an ongoing — and controversial — VERTIGO ZOND
pilot program deploying them as security monitors
on their holiday cruise vessels. ATTRIBUTES
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
8 8 8 11 9 4 8
TROOPER
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
TRANSDUCTOR ZOND Combat +2 1 Movement +1 — Social — —

ATTRIBUTES Fortitude — — Senses +1 1 Technical — —

AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
HARDPOINTS
8 10 8 9 9 4 8
Chassis 1, Comms 0, External 0, Limbs 0, Motive 0, Weapons 0
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
DEFENCES
Combat +2 1 Movement — — Social — —
Firewall 5 Resolve 4 Structure 4
Fortitude — — Senses +2 1 Technical — —
Security 2 Morale — Armour —

HARDPOINTS ATTACKS:
Chassis 1, Comms 0 (Repeater), External 0 (2x Sniffer Pods 3), Limbs 0, Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+5 § damage, Immobilising, Stun
Motive 0, Weapons 0
Smart Missile Launcher: Range L, 2+9 § damage, Burst 1, Unwieldy,
DEFENCES Heavy Ammo, Expert 1, Guided, Munition
Firewall 5 Resolve 4 Structure 4 GEAR: Repeater
Security 2 Morale — Armour — SPECIAL ABILITIES
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 2/3, Fast (2 Heat),
ATTACKS: Remote
Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+4 § damage, Immobilising, Stun Arachne-Powered Artillery: When in a fireteam with remote with a
Combi Rifle: Range C/M, 1+5 § damage, Burst 2, 2H, Expert 1, MULTI Forward Observer NARC Pod or the Sat-Lock ability, the Vertigo Zond
Light Mod, Vicious 1 gains Advanced Security 3.
GEAR: Chameleonwear, Repeater, Sniffer Pods 3
SPECIAL ABILITIES
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 2, Advanced Sensors,
Hover, Remote, Sat-Lock

94 Chapter 4
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

ZONDBOT ZONDMATE
Something of an unofficial Nomad mascot, the Designed and manufactured specifically for the
Zondbot features prominently in toys, games, and Zondnautica Rapid Offensive unit, this formidable
a popular animated series. While they look like piece of engineering can deliver an elite Zondnaut
something dreamed up by a marketing department soldier to hot spots on the battlefield in the form
rather than military R&D, these zippy little remotes of a motorcycle, then transform into a bipedal
inspired all the subsequent takes on the core combat form to fight alongside them. The result is
Zond concept— from heavy weapons platforms to the ultimate form of cavalry, a ferocious pairing of
remote hacking units, all-terrain transports, and human and machine. The unit also sees civilian use
beyond —a nimble inspiration to aspiring warriors, by the wealthy as expensive and flashy toys and by
racers, tacticians, and modders of all ages. Though Submondo groups for their fearsome hit-and-run
an easily altered version without pre-installed capabilities.
weapon, mobility, or camouflage systems is the
most popular choice, the loadout favoured by the TROOPER
Nomad’s Black Hand is a close second, though its ZONDMATE
ODD system raises costs considerably. Engineer and
Medic variants with specialised waldos and built-in ATTRIBUTES
MediKits or Multitools are similarly popular.. AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
10 8 9 10 8 4 7
ELITE
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
ZONDBOT
Combat +2 — Movement +2 2 Social — —
ATTRIBUTES Fortitude — — Senses — — Technical — —
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
12 10 8 10 10 5 8 HARDPOINTS
Chassis 0, Comms 0, External 0, Internal 0, Limbs 0, Motive 0, Weapons 0
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Combat +1 1 Movement +3 3 Social — — DEFENCES
Firewall 5 Resolve 4 Structure 6
Fortitude — — Senses +1 1 Technical +1 1
Security 2 Morale — Armour 1
HARDPOINTS ATTACKS:
Chassis 1, Comms 1, External 1, Limbs 2, Motive 1, Weapons 1 Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+4§§§ damage, Immobilising, Stun
DEFENCES Chain Rifle: Range C, 1+8§ damage, Burst 1, 2H, Spread 1, Torrent,
Firewall 10 Resolve 8 Structure 8 Vicious 1
Security 2 Morale — Armour — Light Grenade Launcher: Range M, 2+6§ damage, Burst 1, Unbal-
anced, Smoke Grenades, Area (Close), Munition, Speculative Fire.
EXAMPLE LOADOUT: MODERATOR
GEAR: Chameleonwear
Electric Pulse: Melee, 1+5§ damage, Immobilising, Stun
SPECIAL ABILITIES
GEAR: ODD
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 2/3, Fast (1 Heat),
SPECIAL ABILITIES Remote, Servant
Common Special Abilities: Advanced Security 4, Defensive Arachne-Powered: When this remote is in Motorcycle Mode, it gains
Algorithms, Fast (1 Heat), Remote, Servant Advanced Security 3.
Off the Shelf Customisation: Characters with Tech Focus of 4 or Modal: As a Minor Action, the Zondmate can transform from its
more can reduce the difficulty of customisation by 2. Characters with Combat Mode to Motorcycle Mode, or vice versa. In Combat Mode, use
Tech focus of 2 can reduce the difficulty of customisation by 1. the remote profile above. Use the vehicle profile below in Motorcycle
MODERATOR LOADOUT Mode. Ranged Attacks with built-in weapons are at +4 complication
range in Motorcycle Mode.
This customisation utilises all hardpoints making further
customisation impossible.
ATTACKS: MOTORCYCLE MODE PROFILE
Exposed (+1§ Cover), Ground, Single Seat, Wheeled
Modhand: Melee, 1+4§ damage, 1H, Concealed 2, E/M, Stun, Subtle
1, Vicious 2 Attributes: Scale 0, Speed 4, Brawn 9
Details: Max. Passengers 2, Impact 1+3§ (Knockdown)
Adhesive Pistol: Range R/C, 1+8§ damage, Burst 1, 1H,
Hardpoints: Chassis 1, Comms 1, Motive 2, Weapons 0 (Chain
Immobilising, Knockdown, Nonlethal, Vicious 1
Rifle, LGL)
GEAR: Climbing Plus, Optical Disruption Device, Repeater, either
Defences: Structure 8, Firewall 5, Armour 1, BTS 2
a MediKit or a bomb deactivator.

Remote Assistance 95
REMOTES TABLE
Remote Restriction Cost Tariff Maintenance
Armbot, Bulleteer 3 (PanOceania 2) 12+3 § T1 2
2 (Hypercorp 1, Mercenary 1,
Armbot, Peacemaker 11+1 § T1 2
PanOceania 1)
Auxbot 3 (PanOceania 1) 10+2 § T1 2
Chaīyì Yáokòng 2 (Yu Jing 1) 9+2 § T2 2
2 (PanOceania 1, PanOceanian
Crabbot 11+2 § T1 2
TAG Pilot 0)
Dakini Tacbot (ALEPH) 13+3 § T1 3
Dembot 12+2 § T1 3
Devabot (ALEPH) 14+4 § T2 4
Devabot, Kydoimos, and Charybdis (ALEPH) 14+4 § T2 4
Dronbot 3 (PanOceania 2) 11+2 § T1 2
Evercast Cloud X 13+4 § T2 4
Fanous 2 (Haqqislam 1) 9+3 § T2 1
Garuda Tacbot 4 13+4 § T4 5
Garuda Knockoff (Nandi) 5 (Submondo 4) 10+5 § T3 6
GeePal X X -1, minimum 1 4+X § T(X) 1
Hùsòng Yáokòng (Yu Jing) 12+2 § T1 3
Kameel (Hacker) (Haqqislam) 12+3 § T2 2
Kameel (Guardian) (Haqqislam) 12+3 § T2 3
Karkata 3 (ALEPH 2) 10+3 § T2 2
Kiranbot (ALEPH) 14+4 § T2 4
Lù Duān (Yu Jing) 15+ § T2 4
Mulebot 2 (PanOceania 1) 9+3 § T3 3
Nasmat A2 (Haqqislam 1) 12+3 § T3 3
Palbot (PanOceania , ALEPH ) 12+3 § T3 3
Probot 2 (ALEPH 1) 14+4 § T2 4
Puppetbot 4 (Nomads 2) 10+3 § T2 3
Rafiq 2 (Haqqislam 1) 11+2 § T2 3
5 – Medicine or Tech Focus,
Randgrid Casket-Drone 3 (See entry.) 11+1 § T22
minimum 1
Rebot, Daleth (ALEPH) 14+4 § T2 4
Rebot, Lamedh (ALEPH) 14+4 § T2 4
Rebot, Lamedh Knockoff 5 (Submondo 4) 10+5 § T2 3
Rebot, Samekh (ALEPH) 14+4 § T2 4
Rebot, Zayin (ALEPH) 14+4 § T2 4
RosieBot
Rudras GunBot (ALEPH) 16+4 § T2 4
Rui Shi 4 (Yu Jing 3) 12+4 § T22
4

96 Chapter 4
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

REMOTES TABLE
Remote Restriction Cost Tariff Maintenance
Shaytaniyah 3 (Haqqislam 2)
Shihab 3 (Haqqislam 2)
Snifferbot X 12+3 § T2 3
Spotbot 1 9+2 § T2 1
Sputnik, Lunokhod 4 (Nomads 2) 10+3 § T31 2
Sputnik, Tsyklon 4 (Nomads 2) 10+2 § T31
2
See Heavy Armour Table, p.
Sù-Jiàn IAU 12+2 § T1 3
61-62
Tinbot 0 6+1 § — 1
Tour Guide
Traktor Mul 3 (Ariadna 2) 8+3 § T2 1
V.U.Bot
Yáokòng (Yu Jing) 12+3 § T3 2
Son-Bae Yáokòng (Yu Jing) 14+4 § T3 3
Zond, Meteor (Nomad) 13+4 § T3 4
Zond, Reaktion (Nomad) 12+3 § T2 3
Zond, Salyut (Nomad) 13+4 § T3 4
Zond, Stempler (Nomad) 12+3 § T2 3
Zond, Transductor (Nomad) 13+4 § T3 4
Zond, Vertigo ///Highly Restricted/// 16+4 § T3 5
Zondbot 3 (Nomad 1) 10+4 § T3 3
Zondmate (Nomad) 15+3 § T2 4

1
See entry
2
No tariff for buyers who qualify for lower Restriction

Remote Assistance 97

WHAT YOU’LL
FIND IN THIS
CHAPTER
• Rules for upgrading TAGs and
remotes
• A catalogue of hardpoint
upgrades and remote limb
replacements
• A catalogue of combat-ready
ground, air, and water vehicles
OPTIONAL RULE:
SIMPLIFIED
UPGRADES
When a remote or TAG is first
purchased, or in the interests of
time, the GM can allow:
• Restriction or price reduction
for characters with high
Tech skills.
• Separate purchases for
already-installed upgrades on a
new purchase.
• An upgrade’s price including
installation without additional
labour cost, if no PC has
relevant Tech skills.
98 chapter 5
CHAPTER 5
OPTIONS AND UPGRADES
In addition to basic repair and maintenance, TAG
and remote upgrades are common duty for military
technicians, often under intense time constraints.
Many upgrades, however, derive not from formal
requisitions by governments from military manu-
facturers, but from cash-strapped mercenary TAG
techs or the thriving civilian and Submondo remote
modding subcultures dedicated to specific remotes.
TAG upgrades usually focus on enhancing combat
efficacy, granting an essential if momentary edge
against similarly scaled opposition, improving a
pilot’s chances of survival, or allowing attacks from
unexpected angles. While operational discipline is
always a priority, most officers allow their pilots at
least cosmetic alterations to their mounts to raise
morale and personal investment. Earning the right
to more elaborate alterations is a rite of passage
and demonstrating careful professionalism an
essential milestone. Few motor pool technicians
will waste time or effort making improvements for
an inept or negligent pilot. It’s too likely to come
back as wreckage, or not at all.
While similarly combat-focused alterations are
common for military, corporate, and mercenary
remotes, criminal and civilian remote upgrades and
overhauls often shift the remote’s role away from a
strictly military role. These enhancements concen-
trate on utility for smuggling, logistics, espionage,
surveillance, joyriding, or just looking good in a
convention showroom or racetrack. Even upgrades
with seemingly only violent uses can become hotly
debated fashion trends or criminal essentials, and
the borders between military design and modding
fad are surprisingly porous.
Finding the raw materials is often only the begin-
ning. Many widely available upgrades are rare or
difficult to acquire because of the skilled labour
required to install and carefully integrate them
with existing systems, particularly other already-in-
stalled alterations. As always, the right contacts are
essential.
TAG UPGRADES
TAG CUSTOMISATION
AND HARDPOINTS
These rules extend those in Chapter 11 of
the Infinity Gamemaster’s Guide. See Vehicle
Customisation on p. 135 – 142 for hardpoint cat-
egories and common upgrades. In summary, each
hardpoint represents the space and capacity to
replace, refine, change, or upgrade a specific aspect
of the vehicle’s function. Different hardpoints
accept different types of upgrades, and different
vehicles (such as TAGs) have different quantities
of the six types of hardpoints: Chassis, Comms,
External, Internal, Motive, and Weapons.
Upgrades use up one or more hardpoints, and all of
an upgrade’s listed hardpoints must be available to
install it. When an upgrade is removed, those hard-
points are freed up for future upgrades. The time
to install or remove an upgrade depends on the
TAG Scale and qualities and the type of upgrade
involved. Their systems are tightly integrated,
leaving minimal room for upgrades, but space
can be freed up by removing existing equipment
and upgrades, such as ECM packages and built-in
weaponry, even on a TAG or remote without any
hardpoints initially available. Unlike most vehicles,
Remote Presence TAGs cannot receive Internal
upgrades, or any upgrade which would require
the loss of passengers, since they are without life
support or passenger space.
Installing or removing an upgrade is a complex
Tech skill test, with difficulty equal to the number
of hardpoints the upgrade uses, total Momentum
required equal to the TAG’s Scale +1, and a
maximum number of failures equal to twice the
technician’s Tech Expertise. If multiple complica-
tions are generated on a single roll, the test fails,
and unless the technician spends Parts equal to
the TAG’s Scale +1 it loses one hardpoint, either of
the technician’s choice if they generated at least
one success, or the GM’s choice if they did not. Once
removed, an upgrade can be installed elsewhere.
Weapons wielded by a TAG with hands can be
exchanged in minutes and do not require a test.

UPGRADE TIMEFRAME TABLE
Basic Installation (remote)
Scale 0 TAG
Scale 1 YAG
Scale 2 TAG
Scale 3 TAG
External or Weapons
Limb (remote)
Comms or Internal
Chassis or Motive
Drone Overhaul
Rugged
REMOTE UPGRADES
Remotes can be upgraded much like TAGs and
vehicles, with a few key differences:
• They are Scale 1 for the purposes of upgrades
and long-distance shipping. The time required to
upgrade them is halved (round down, minimum
1 hour) compared to TAGs or other vehicles,
unless explicitly stated otherwise because some
upgrade types are more time consuming.
• With a few exceptions such as Pillion
Grabhandles, they cannot receive Internal
upgrades, carry passengers, or receive upgrades
that would alter their number of passengers
(since they have none).
• They can use unique limb upgrades in place of
upper appendages, weapon mounts, and hands.
Multiple limb upgrades not in matched pairs
unbalance them, adding +1 difficulty to Agility
tests.
• Removing an integrated 2-Handed, Unbalanced,
or Unwieldy ranged weapon from a remote
makes the technician’s choice of a limb or weap-
ons hardpoint available, regardless of any other
listed hardpoints.
• They also can receive unique overhaul upgrades,
which comprehensively alter their structure and
systems. Only one overhaul can be applied to a
remote at a time, and installing one requires 4
hours per test, but it does not require removal
before replacement with another overhaul.
Once the new overhaul upgrade is installed, the
effects of the previous one are entirely removed
and replaced.
THE ROLEPLAYING GAME
1
2
3
4
6
+1
+1
+0
2
3
Halves time and reduces Difficulty by 1
TAG & REMOTE
UPGRADES CATALOGUE
VEHICLE CUSTOMISATION AND
HARDPOINTS
These items are designed for use with the
hardpoint rules in Chapter 11 of the Infinity
Gamemaster’s Guide, Vehicle Customisation on p.
135 – 142 for hardpoint categories and common
upgrades, and The Mod Shop table on p.141-142
for pricing. Each upgrade’s hardpoint category is
listed in parentheses after its name.
2DA MAGAZINE (INTERNAL OR
OVERHAUL):
A self-maintaining nanobot hive as long as power
is continually provided, this rare ALEPH-designed
magazine housing stores and augments Double
Action (DA) Reloads. The nanobots systematically
replace a portion of the rounds’ micro-explosive
chambers and eject just before impact to shred and
rend target surfaces, adding Anti-Materiel 2 and
Frangible to DA ammo’s qualities. The magazines
can hold up to six Reloads and take one minute
to convert a DA Reload to 2DA (Anti-Materiel 2,
Frangible, Vicious 2). If the weapon’s § is reduced
to 0, the magazine replenishes 2§ of damage each
round, restoring all damage § if an Effect is rolled.
To prevent potentially catastrophic failure, the
nanobots self-destruct if the magazine’s integrity is
compromised by a Fault Effect, or a minute after a
2DA Reload’s removal from the magazine.
Options and Upgrades 99

CACHE ON
DELIVERY
With the ubiquity of remotes for
package delivery and biometric
tracking of individuals’ public
movements, a great deal of
PanOceania’s Submondo
activity happens via “mules”,
Mulebots with a concealed
compartment for drugs,
anonymised flashtabs, or other
illicit goods, delivered under
the guise of ordinary commerce,
with payment left in place
of the delivered item. Steady
patterns of purchases serve as
algorithmic alibis.
“SICK MOD!”
Most Bakunians, many Nomads,
and almost everyone in remote-
focused subcultures are fans
of cosmetic mods, granting at
least some bonus Momentum
on social interactions
with cosmetically modded
remotes even if not the target
subculture. The complication
range penalties are unchanged,
however. There’s no accounting
for taste.
100 chapter 5
AKIMBO TURRET X
(EXTERNAL OR LIMB):
As with an additional weapon mount, this external
upgrade turns an external or limb hardpoint into
a weapons hardpoint, which must be operated by
quantronic link by the gunner and can be disabled
by Breaches to the TAG or remote’s network.
Unlike conventional mounts, however, each
akimbo turret mounts and fires a matched pair of
smaller weapons instead of a single one, with the
maximum weapon size determined by Scale (1 for
remotes, 2 for most TAGs).
Rating 1 turrets can hold a pair of One-Handed
weapons, Rating 2 a pair of Two-Handed or smaller,
and Rating 3 Unwieldy, Mounted, or smaller. As with
a character dual wielding weapons, the gunner may
use the Swift Action Momentum spend by paying
only 1 Momentum, rather than the usual 2, so
long as both Actions are ranged attacks with the
akimbo turret’s mounted weapons against the same
target or target zone if the weapons have Area,
Indiscriminate, or Torrent qualities.
COLLAPSIBILITY (OVERHAUL):
More complete redesign than upgrade, rendering
a remote collapsible requires replacing key rigid
structures with smart materials that fold into
empty spaces within it or modular pieces that
can be partially deconstructed to conserve space
and reduce its proportions. Converting it into its
collapsed form takes a half hour and a Tech (D1)
test, and reversing the process requires an hour.
While collapsed, it can be stored and transported as
though it were Scale 0.
COMPARTMENT X (CHASSIS OR
OVERHAUL): DEDLINK (COMMS + INTERNAL):
Similar to a sleeper housing, this smart-material
bodywork casing creates a cavity within a TAG
or Remote’s chassis that is sealed and disguised,
granting items placed inside it the Concealed X
quality. The cavity’s dimensions can be altered on
the fly via quantronic command, but total capacity
depends on Scale. Remotes and Scale 1 TAGs can
store oblong items up to Two-handed in size or
approximately a quarter metre cube. Scale 2 TAGs
can conceal up to a half metre cube or oblong
items up to Unwieldy in size. Removing or placing
an item in the compartment usually requires a
Standard Action and one or more hands. Items
cannot be used while stored.
COSMETIC MOD X (OVERHAUL):
Ornamental augmentations for remotes, cosmetic
mods alter their subject’s appearance and
presentation, even its posture, fundamental
structure, or scent, to suit a culture or subculture.
Unconstrained by the limits of the human form, a
wide variety of superficial or profound alterations
are possible, but like cosmetics or fashion, what’s
considered attractive or impressive varies wildly
and can cause friction with those outside the target
audience.
The buyer chooses the subculture to target, and
how intense of an alteration they want, reducing
the remote’s Structure by X (max 3). The upgrade
grants X bonus Momentum on tests involving
social interaction with the target subculture when
interacting through the remote or when the remote
is visibly present or important. Outside the target
subculture, however, these tests can suffer up to +X
complication range, GM’s choice.
CUSTOM LOADOUT X:
Changing a TAG’s weapons is not as simple as
putting a weapon down and picking another up.
Most modern TAG weapons have ammunition,
power, and structural requirements that will
need incorporating into the TAG. The cost of this
is generally marginal so long as the change is
between a TAG’s factory-determined load outs or
the weapon is roughly the same size as one already
mounted or carried by the TAG. Should the TAG’s
weapon system be upgraded to a larger weapon,
the cost quickly increases as grade 2 and 3 Custom
Loadouts are subject to tariffs equal to their grade.
Upgrading a TAG weapon to another Two-Handed
or smaller weapon requires a rating 1 Custom
Loadout. Upgrading to larger weapon requires at
least grade 2, though specialist weapons, such as
a missile tube or Hyper Magnetic Rail Cannon may
require Custom Loadouts of 3 or more and are
subject to GM agreement.
Only useful for TAGs with integrated hacking
devices, this upgrade allows a TAG pilot to assume
the role of hacker without penalty. They apply their
Firewall and Security Soak to the TAG if higher, can
attempt Infowar attacks with its hacking devices
during their turn, and defend against Infowar
attacks as though it was their own network. Due
to the dangers involved, it sees minimal use
outside highly skilled or outrageously reckless
mercenary units.
The system links with the pilot’s implanted neural
device (a neural-implanted comlog, neural hacking
socket, or similar comms item with the Neural
quality), and cannot be used without it. Feedback
causes 1§ mental damage each time the TAG
suffers a Fault or Breach, 1§ physical damage if an
Effect is rolled for mental damage, and 1§ firewall
damage if a second Effect is rolled for physical
damage. In exchange, the pilot gains a bonus
Momentum on TAG Pilot or Hacking tests.

ENHANCED LIFE SUPPORT
While the most modern TAGs are remote piloted,
there is still an operational need for human
intelligence on the ground, in orbit, and deep below
the waves. Many piloted TAGs are capable of short
stints in such environments, but few are capable of
extended activity there.
Converting a piloted TAG to Enhanced Life
support is a vital affair, using up an internal
and external hardpoint for the additional life
support functioning as the Adapted quality for
all environments (see Infinity Corebook, p. 335).
Enhanced Life support is paired with a specialised
structural frame that allows for a single set
of dedicated manoeuvrability thrusters to be
connected to the TAG. These thrusters must be paid
for separately and will only operate in a specific
environment.
EVAC SYSTEM (INTERNAL):
A Zero-Zero evacuation device (functional at
zero altitude and zero speed) based on aircraft
ejection seats, this system launches upwards
to deliver a pilot from a grounded stationary
position to a location far from their compromised
or incapacitated TAG. An explosive charge rips
open a pre-set portion of the cockpit, miniature
rockets propel the occupant’s seat upwards for an
adequate distance, and an anti-shock gel bubble
akin to a crashsuit guarantees a safe and successful
landing 1+3§ zones away. It also contains a pair
of smoke grenades designed to fire at the start and
end zones of its brief flight. These are notoriously
unreliable and only fire if an Effect is generated
when determining landing distance.
With a Pilot (D1) test, the occupant can steer
somewhat, landing 1 + Momentum spent nearer or
farther then they would in ordinary circumstances.
Alternatively, they can make a Ballistics (D1) test
to manually fire the included smoke grenades at
the starting and ending zones of their flight, or a
Ballistics (D2) test each to aim them elsewhere.
The system launches automatically when the TAG
takes its final Fault. It can also be triggered with
a Pilot (D0) test as a Minor Action or Reaction by
the occupant, by an ally connected to the vehicle’s
network with a Hacking (D0) test as a Reaction, or
by a hostile hacker who makes a successful CLAW-2
Expel attack and spends 2 Momentum.
EYEPAINT (COMMS + EXTERNAL
OR OVERHAUL): gunslinger arm grants Expert 2 to its weapon and
Most famously sold by Kuraimori’s paint producer
Mokumokuren before Japan’s secession, this paint is
embedded with thousands of microscopic recorder
beads and light-sensitive polyfilaments. While
low-resolution individually, they can collectively
construct 360˚ imagery of the TAG or remote’s
THE ROLEPLAYING GAME
surroundings, repurposing visual feeds to highlight
notable details. This grants a bonus d20 and +1
complication range to Observation tests by the
pilot. If the TAG suffers 1 or more damage from
an attack with the Blinding quality, the eyepaint is
scrambled, adding +2 complication range and no
benefit to tests that would ordinarily benefit from
the upgrade until it is repaired.
FLARECHAFF POD (EXTERNAL):
Usable only by TAGs with ECM systems, this single-
use array fires clouds of smart-magnesium chaff
and magnetised micro-munitions to interfere with
guidance systems and divert or destroy projectiles.
Once activated with a Tech (D1) test as either a
Minor Action or Reaction, until the Pilot’s next turn
plus one additional turn per Momentum spent, the
TAG’s ECM rating is increased by 1, any Cover Soak
is doubled against Guided ranged attacks, and the
TAG gains +2§ Cover Soak against all other ranged
attacks. Observation tests to detect the TAG are
made at −3 difficulty (minimum 0), and its actions
are unavoidably noisy while the pod is in use.
GUNCLAW (LIMB) [AMMO TYPE]:
Also known as an Alphie after the Alpheidae family
of snapping shrimp, this Crabbot replacement limb
significantly increases combat viability, replacing
its flash pulse (or another ranged weapon) with a
specialised heavy pistol and ammo-feed system.
The arm’s bulk imbalances the remote, adding
+1 complication range to Agility and Brawn
tests (or the Movement Field of Expertise) and
+2 complication range to melee attacks. These
penalties are negated if the remote has Brawn
of 10 or more or the limb replaces an Unwieldy
or larger weapon. If not negated, and a second
gunclaw is installed, the penalties double. Each
fires a single kind of Special ammo, chosen at
installation, and adds capacity for up to five
Reloads of that ammo type.
GUNSLINGER MOUNT X (LIMB):
The gunslinger mount is an extensively stabilised
ranged weapon mounting with built-in gyroscopic
recoil compensators, isolated heat sinks, dynamic
ammo feeds, and multi-axis gimbal joints to
maximise potential angles of fire. Adding a
allows it to Swap Ammo as a Free Action once per
turn if the user has a Ballistics Focus of 2 or more.
In addition, Swift Action Momentum spends to
make a second attack with the weapon against the
same target cost only 1 Momentum if the target is
at the weapon’s ideal effective range.
Options and Upgrades 101

ARMBOT VARIANT:
MITROGLOU
GUNNER
Almost as popular as the
ordinary models with
Corporate Security Units,
these Armbots incorporate a
Gunslinger Mount 2 Spitfire
to ensure concentrated fire
while minimising collateral
damage. Made by San Pietro’s
Schmidberger Armourers from
the NeoColonial Wars’ surplus
Peacemakers and Bulleteers,
they are named for Aristea! star
Ernesto “Pistolero” Mitroglau,
who receives considerable
royalties as the line’s
marketing icon.
Not every remote is large
enough to support Pillion
Grabhandles. The GM has
final say.
102 chapter 5
Each gunslinger arm installed halves the remote’s Structure
(round up) and reduces Armour Soak for the limb and the
remote’s torso by 1, to a minimum of 0. Swapping out the arm’s
mounted weapon takes a half hour and a Tech (D1) test, which
can be assisted with the Tech, Pilot, or Ballistics skill, and the
combined arm plus weapon can subsequently be added or
removed as a single unit. Supported weapons vary by rating.
• X = 1: One-Handed or Two-Handed
• X = 2: Two-Handed or Unbalanced
• X = 3: Two-Handed, Unbalanced, or Unwieldy
PILLION GRABHANDLES
(EXTERNAL): Applicable to any remote, even
those without an available external hardpoint, these hand
and footholds allow a remote to carry a single passenger. If
added to a remote without an available external hardpoint,
the remote’s Armour is reduced by 1, to a minimum of 0. The
passenger cannot control the remote unless otherwise granted
access, counts as being on an Exposed vehicle (receiving no
Cover Soak), and can grab on or let go as a Free Action. The
difficulty of Acrobatics tests to jump on or off the vehicle is
reduced by 1, to a minimum of 0, and characters can ignore
the usual difficulty increase for physical actions on the outside
of a moving vehicle, so long as they use one hand and foot
to hold on.
PORCUSPINES (CHASSIS +
EXTERNAL OR OVERHAUL): allows the TAG to be remote operated. Often these conversions
A crude mechanical take on hedgehog augmentations, these
sharp retractable metal spines deter contact and shred
attackers. A defending remote or TAG can use its porcuspines
system for Close Combat Defence Reactions against melee
attacks for -1 Heat (minimum 0). If the defender wins the face-
to-face test, they deal porcuspines’ damage to the attacker in
addition to preventing the attack. With Close Combat Focus of 4
or more, the system has Piercing 2 and Vicious 2.
REMAGTRAX (OVERHAUL):
Made of thousands of ferrous segments, sturdy smart-material
hubs, and a vectored thrust system, this mobility system can
dynamically reconfigure to suit whatever’s needed. The power
requirements involved radically alter the remote, reducing its
Structure by ¼ (round up), and the system’s vibrations reduce
its Coordination by 2, but it gains 1 rank of Superhuman Agility.
The remote gains the ability to move to a zone within Long
range as a Minor Action provided it does so only over level
terrain and calm water. The difficulty of tests to move into,
through, or within difficult or hazardous terrain is reduced by 2
(to a minimum of 0).
REMOTE PRESENCE UPGRADE
(COMMS + INTERNAL):
With modern TAGs eschewing the presence of a human pilot
in favour of a remote presence operator, there are more than
a few after-market conversions on offer. By removing life
support in favour of an enhanced communication suite, this
overhaul increases the internal hardpoints of the TAG by 1 and
are from less-than-savoury characters, and there are urban
legends of third-party installers adding remote operation
equipment and literally having the TAG walk out on its owner.
Caveat emptor!

RHINO REINFORCEMENT (CHASSIS SLEEPER HOUSING X (CHASSIS):
+ EXTERNAL + INTERNAL): Also known as rat panels, these smart-material sockets
Improved passenger protection, this upgrade adds layered
banks of rechargeable neomaterial crumple zones and internal
shock absorbers to a TAG’s exterior and seating, providing
superior protection against collisions. Whenever passengers
would suffer damage due to the TAG suffering a Fault from a
collision, loss of control, melee, or ranged weapon attack, the
upgrade grants them +4§ additional Armour Soak against it.
It also reduces Backlash when ramming by 1, to a minimum of
Backlash 1, but reduces Structure by ¼ (round up) and takes up
three hardpoints: one chassis, one internal, and one external.
SCREAMBOX ARRAY (EXTERNAL +
WEAPON):
Officially an Active Denial System, this TAG-mounted nonlethal
directed-energy array disperses unarmoured crowds. Its
high-energy beams excite water and fat molecules in the
first 4 mm of skin, inducing agony that lasts until targets flee
the area. Manufacturers claim it causes no lasting physical
damage beyond small blisters, as beam wavelengths are too
short to penetrate the skin, but the psychological effects can
be permanent. The physical damage it inflicts is also taken as
mental damage, in addition to its Terrifying quality. Full cover or
modern armour, even armoured clothing, blocks its effects, but
those without full head-to-toe protection or cover must make a
Brawn + Discipline (D5) test to take actions other than fleeing
the targeted area in terror.
SHREDCLAWS X (OVERHAUL OR
CHASSIS + EXTERNAL): count as a kit for a specific skill, allowing users to make tests
Known in Yu Jing as Oroku, these paired Crabbot or TAG-scale
limbs replace the usual arms and hands, or manipulator claws,
with serrated knife-edges. The chainsaw-like rotary rasps and
a powerful hydraulic system allows them to rip through walls,
vehicle chassis, or even military-grade armour. Shredclaws
cannot hold weapons or manipulate objects besides crude
shoving or attacking, attacks against non-stationary targets
are at +1 difficulty, and their rending faces quickly degrade,
requiring costly replacement of the ‘claws' carbon-steel,
synthetic-diamond, or Teseum blades.
For each Effect rolled, reduce the number of § in the claws’
attack rating by 2, and if § are reduced to 0, they cannot be
used again until their rending faces are replaced for the listed
Maintenance cost. They do not otherwise require Maintenance
payment. If installed on a TAG without hands besides an Akrep
or Bokböceği, or a non-Crabbot remote, its melee attacks have
+2 complication range from structural differences.
THE ROLEPLAYING GAME
When assaulting civilian
and bodywork casings disguise a TAG upgrade, adding +X spaceships, Yuan Yuan are
difficulty to Observation tests to notice or discover its real fond of installing porcuspine
purpose. Depending on the upgrade, the GM can rule it systems on a handful of small
remains disguised even while active. Otherwise, when the remotes, coating them in
upgrade is used, attempts to identify it as the source of attacks, short-lived toxins, and latching
interference, or other advantages are only at +1 difficulty, them onto hostages to ensure
compliance. Demonstrations
regardless of the housing’s rating. They always require some
are rarely necessary, but they
degree of custom fit, so the housing is usually purchased in
usually toxically stab a few non-
combination with what it disguises. Adding one to an already- essential personnel in front of
installed upgrade doubles installation time. the rest anyhow.
SWAPSOCKET (LIMB):
Taking the place of a remote’s usual limb mounting, this
upgrade allows a user to attach another limb to the socket with
a Tech (D1) test in only fifteen minutes, instead of the usual
installation process. If the installer has Tech Focus of 4 or more,
multiple sockets can be installed simultaneously, replacing all
of the remote’s limbs at once. Each socket installed reduces the
remote’s Structure by 1.
WALDO (LIMB):
Used to add an articulated mechanical arm to units without
them, or as an extra hand for those that already do, a remote’s
waldo limb allows it to manipulate or throw objects, open doors,
and wield One-Handed or Unbalanced weapons, Two-Handed or
Unwieldy weapons when used in pairs.
WALDO X, SPECIALISED (LIMB):
Specialised waldos, such as Surgical or Engineering Waldos,
for that skill via the remote without being physically present,
and without any VR Mode complication range or Reaction Heat
cost penalties. The waldo also allows the remote to assist on its
skill tests, with a target number of 10+X. Each additional waldo
used halves the amount of time it takes to complete the task
but adds +1 complication range.
Waldos with rare functionality such as the extraplanetary-
assistant Spacer’s Friend or the thievery-specialised
Cracksman’s Waldo can be considerably more expensive. GMs
are welcome to increase relevant base costs or tariffs for
unusual or high-rating variants.
Options and Upgrades 103
TAG & REMOTE UPGRADE TABLE
Upgrade Categories Restriction Cost Tariff Maintenance
2DA Magazine Internal OR Overhaul 4 (ALEPH 2, PanOceania 2) 4+2 § T2 —
Akimbo Turret X External 2 4+2 § T2 —
Collapsibility Overhaul 3 (Nomads 1, PanOceania 2) 6+3 § T1 —
Enhanced Life Support Internal & External 1 5+2 § T2 1
Enhanced Life Support Thrusters n/a 1 4+3 § T1 1
Evac System Internal 1 4+4 § — —
Compartment X Chassis OR Overhaul 1 2+2X § — —
Cosmetic Mod X Overhaul 1 2+2X § — -

Custom Loadout 1 Weapon 1 1+3 § — —

Custom Loadout X Weapon X X+3X § X —
DedLink Comms + Internal 1 5+1 § T1 —
Evac System Internal 1 4+2 § - —
Eyepaint Comms + External OR Overhaul 1 (Japan 0) (Scale) + 2 § T2 —
Flarechaff Pod External 2 5+3 § T1
Gunclaw [Ammo Type] Limb Per Ammo Type 6+2 § T2 —
Gunslinger Mount X Limb X(minimum 2) 7+X § T(X+1) X
Pillion Grabhandles External 1 1+2 § T1 —
Porcuspines Chassis + External OR Overhaul 2 2+4 § - —
ReMagTrax Overhaul 3 6+3 § T1 +1
Remote Presence Upgrade Comms + Internal 2 3+6 § T1 +2
Rhino Reinforcement Chassis + External + Internal 1 7+1 § T1 —
Screambox Array External + Weapon 3 (Yu Jing 2) 8+1 § T3 —
Shredclaws X Chassis + External OR Overhaul X (PanOceania X-1 ) 15 (+2) 6 6
Sleeper Housing X Chassis X (X-1 Illicit) 2+2X § T3 —
SwapSocket Limb 2 3 + 2X § — —
Waldo Limb 1 4+2 § T1 —
Waldo X, Specialised Limb X 7+X § T(X+1) X

1
See entry for details

104 chapter 5

CHAPTER 6
TAG CHARACTERS
There is nothing quite like striding across the
battlefield in a towering colossus, raining death
upon your enemies, and shrugging off small arms
fire like it was nothing. While they don’t entirely
dominate the military landscape, they tend to
dominate any landscape they happen to be on. And
the souls who pilot these war machines are as
diverse, forceful, and larger-than-life as the TAGs
they ride.
TAG-FOCUSED
CHARACTERS
Since this book focuses on TAGs rather than
one particular faction, using these rules is a
little different than other Infinity Lifepaths. The
rules presented here can be used, with the GM's
permission, in place of their counterparts from
the Infinity Corebook or your character’s respective
Faction Guide. If you decide to use these rules, you
must replace all of their respective counterparts.
You can’t cherry pick between the different books.
TAGS BY FACTION the Medical speciality when working the TAG
Every faction deploys TAGs, though not to the
same degree. The Yu Jing StateEmpire and
PanOceanian Military Complex both wield the
necessary resources to commission and deploy
multiple lines of Armoured Gears, and their
militaries flex that manufacturing muscle. In
contrast, the tech-deficient Ariadnans are reliant
on their Dog-Warriors for the (sometimes literal)
heavy lifting, with proper TAGs limited to whatever
mercenary support they can scrounge up. With the
comparatively resource-strapped Minor Nations,
it’s more of a crap shoot. While most lack the
infrastructure — or frankly, the need — for TAGs,
more than one small power keeps a TAG or two
on the books, just in case they need an ace up
their sleeve.
While every rule has its exceptions, the role and
prevalence of TAGs is reasonably consistent within
each faction.
ALEPH
When it comes to force, ALEPH prefers quality over
quantity, and its TAGs are no exception. One look at
the price tag on a Marut says it all. From Aspects
and Posthumans to members who are simply loyal
to the AI, ALEPH’s TAGs are piloted by remote
presence with no known deviations to the rule.
THE ROLEPLAYING GAME
Characters in the ALEPH faction can freely choose
the Tactical Remote Presence Operator speciality as
their first career.
ARIADNA
Despite attempts to create their own TAG-scale
armoured platform — most notably the ill-fated
RM100 project — Ariadna has yet to field a TAG
TAG LIFEPATH
squadron. As far back as the Commercial Conflicts,
DECISIONS
Merovingia’s Rapid Response Force (FRRM) has
worked with the Nomad’s Anaconda mercenary TAG DECISION EIGHT
unit, but the citizens of Dawn have no TAGs of their – CAREERS
own. Instead, they rely on Blackjack Heavy Armour, Instead of rolling on their
Dog-Warriors, and the thunderous Ratnik power respective Faction Career
armour units to handle the heavy lifting. Table, TAG-focused characters
roll on the TAG Careers Table.
Similarly, when working a
Characters in the Ariadna faction will find many
career, they roll on the TAG
options closed to them, though they can still make Career Events Tables, otherwise
characters using this chapter. If they wish to get proceeding normally.
behind the controls of a TAG themselves, for 1 Life
Point they can change their faction to Mercenary
and roll on the TAG Careers Table normally.
Characters in the Ariadna faction can freely choose
Crew career.
CORPORATIONS
Most corporate entities don’t employ TAGs in
any capacity. They’re expensive to produce and
maintain and are ill-suited to the subtle infiltration
that define corporate operations. That said, in
situations like corporate headquarters or top
executives’ mansions —where money is legitimately
no object — trespassers may find themselves face-
to-face with a hulking war platform and a pilot
disinterested in conversation.
Characters in the Corporate faction can freely select
Arms Dealer as their first career.
HAQQISLAM
With their XPR-5 Akrep TAGs, the Maghariba Guard
is the last line of defence for the Hachib and the
most prestigious TAG brigade in Haqqislam. It is
not, however, the only one. Armoured infantry units
featuring the older XPR-1 “Beetle” units might be
few in number, but they know how to get the most
out of their antiquated units. Either way, TAGs are
remarkably expensive. Haqqislam knows it can’t
afford to field many, and its pilots reflect this in
their cunning, cautious approach.
TAG CHARACTERS 105

“I don’t go in for that ‘less is
more’ crap. When it comes to
guns, more is definitely more.”
— Beba, mercenary TAG pilot.
Off-hand remark before
her last mission. Current
whereabouts unknown.
FORGED IN FLAME
The ultimate expression
of O-12's authority, Bureau
Aegis' Zeta units represent an
immediate and forceful solution.
Piloting a unique evolution
of the latest PanOceanian
TAGs, these remote presence
operators routinely spend
double shifts in the cockpit.
Graduates of Concilium's
Mechanised Pilot Academy, the
screening process is so brutal
that other units frequently fight
over the washouts for such
is the honour of even being
considered for the post.
The result of this programme
is the absolute cream of the
crop. Ace piloting skills are a
given. What truly sets the Zeta
apart is their unbreakable
spirit, tireless focus, and
ruthless efficiency. The latter in
particular is unusual for O-12,
sparking an interested concern
in the various powers of the
Human Sphere.
106 Chapter 6
Characters in the Haqqislam faction can freely
choose the Tactician speciality when working the
TAG Specialist career.
MERCENARY
Though few in number, TAG pilots are arguably
the most sought-after commodities on the war
market…at least with clients who can afford
them. Supplying and maintaining their own TAGs,
mercenary TAG pilots don’t come cheap. But when
you need overwhelming firepower, there really is no
substitute.
Characters in the Mercenary faction can freely
choose the Mechanist speciality when working the
TAG Crew career.
MINOR NATION of precise gunfire.
Officially, lesser powers of the Human Sphere
have a tough time getting their hands on TAGs,
and rarely bother. Unofficially, they’re big-time
purchasers of black-market TAGs. In the small-scale
skirmishes that define conflict in the Human Edge
and beyond, even an outdated model is worth its
weight in Teseum. Frequently deployed through
zero-g, the sight of a TAG entering the battle is
often enough to scatter hostile forces.
Characters in the Minor Nations faction can freely
choose the Prowler speciality when working the
TAG Specialist career.
NOMADS battlefields, or finding themselves on the wrong
While not as TAG-focused as other factions, the
Nomad’s reptile-themed TAGs — Geckos, Iguanas,
and the Lizard Squad to name a few — offer
unparalleled versatility. They can be deployed just
about anywhere, and their pilots gleefully echo this
with a chaotic, adaptable approach.
Characters in the Nomad faction can freely choose
the Voidstrider speciality when working the TAG
Specialist career.
O-12
O-12 doesn't field a standing army, at least not
in the traditional sense. But if the history of
the Human Sphere has taught the organisation
anything, it's that diplomacy works better when
there's several tonnes of heavy metal backing
up your words. For O-12, that's Bureau Aegis's
Zeta units. Knowing it could never hope to match
the scope of a nation's TAG programme, O-12's
Zeta pilots are famously resilient in body, mind,
and spirit, a must for Zeta's famously gruelling
telepresence deployments.
Few and far between, O-12s TAGs serve as a final,
brutal argument. When diplomacy fails, and options
run out, that's when you see the Zetas. And that's
when you know the time for words is at an end.
Characters in the O-12 faction can freely choose
the Communications speciality when working the
TAG Crew career.
PANOCEANIA
The first major power to deploy TAGs on the
battlefield, PanOceania relies on its extensive array
of TAGs to assure its victory. Due to the massive
influence of the PanOceanian Military Complex,
there’s no shortage of options for its pilots, though
all emphasise the signature trait of PanOceanian
military training, taking down opponents in a hail
Characters in the PanOceania faction can freely
choose the Gunner speciality when working the
TAG Specialist career.
SUBMONDO
Though not unheard of in the Human Sphere’s
underworld, TAGs are nevertheless pretty rare.
Difficult to come by and costly to maintain, TAGs
are the ultimate equaliser in gang wars, pirate
raids, or in convincing local law enforcement
that they have pressing concerns elsewhere. That
said, most Submondos’ interactions with TAGs
are through black market chop shops, scouring
end of a governmental strike force. But in those
rare occasions when the Submondo break out their
own TAGs? The look on their targets’ faces makes it
all worthwhile.
Characters in the Submondo faction can freely
select Scrap Runner as their first career.
YU JING
Yu Jing knows a thing or two about reliability and
mass production. The ubiquity of their Guījiă TAGs
means that there’s always room for skilled pilots
to make their mark in defence of the StateEmpire.
Operating the nigh-invincible armoured platforms
gives Yu Jing’s pilots a matchless confidence that
persists both inside and out of their war machines.
Characters in the Yu Jing faction can freely choose
the Defender speciality when working the TAG
Specialist career.
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

DECISION EIGHT:
CAREERS
When creating a TAG-focused character, use TAG CAREER TABLE
the options presented here in place of their
counterparts on the Lifepath. D20 CAREER
1-3 Arms Dealer
OPTIONAL RULE: DEBT 4-6 Scrap Runner
TAGs aren’t cheap. Fielding, maintaining, and
7-8 Tactical Remote Presence Pilot2
supplying them can put a serious strain on anyone’s
bank account — and that’s without mentioning 9-12 TAG Crew
the cost of actually acquiring one. TAG pilots who 13-16 TAG Pilot1,2
operate outside of the structural support of a
17-19 TAG Specialist2
military unit have to get creative to keep their
mounts up and running. Loan sharks, vendors, 20 Roll on Faction Table of Your Choice
Submondo contacts, the Human Sphere is crawling
1
Career from Infinity Corebook.
with folks who’re more than happy to get their 2
Career has a prerequisite of belonging to a faction other than Ariadna.
hooks into pilots. Sensing an opportunity, plenty You cannot hazard this career unless you’re of a matching faction. If you
of vendors have started offering merchandise on roll into this career, reroll on the TAG Career Table until you get a result
credit, getting more than their money’s worth in without this restriction. You can override these limitations by spending 1
interest payments over the course of the loan, Life Point in which case you can either defect to the faction, essentially
while less ethical lenders are more interested in failing a defection check, or were somehow undercover while working
holding leverage or calling in favours from a TAG- the career, or to immediately join the Mercenary faction.
equipped pilot.

When using this optional rule, characters can

acquire “Phantom Assets” to spend during Decision TAG CAREER EVENT TABLE
Nine by taking out loans. By taking on 1 point of
D6 CAREER
Maintenance, they gain 5 Assets to acquire TAGs,
Augmentations, Weapons, whatever their heart 1-3 TAG Career Event Table
desires. Once play begins, the Maintenance cost can 4 Career Event Table A1
be eliminated by paying off the debts, though it 5 Career Event Table B1
costs 7 Assets for each point of debt Maintenance.
6 Career Event Table B1
Other Maintenance costs cannot be reduced

this way, and any Assets acquired in this fashion 1
— Infinity Corebook, p. 56-58
disappear if not spent before the end of Decision
Nine. At the GM’s discretion, these Maintenance
costs can occasionally be eliminated by performing
tasks for the lender, typically of an unsavoury and
politically complicated nature.

TAG CHARACTERS 107

TAG CAREER EVENT TABLE
D20 CAREER EVENT GAME EFFECT
Your actions proved to be the difference in a heated conflict. Not everyone is happy
1 Gain a Nemesis rival who is hunting you.
with the result.
Gain 3 Recorders, 21 Survival Rations, a USAriadnan Entrenching Tool,
A mercenary you worked alongside mysteriously vanished, entrusting you with a
2 and a handwritten message imploring you to solve their (presumed)
curious package.
murder.
3 Cut off from your co-workers, you had to survive in the wilderness for months. Gain 1 rank in Survival and reduce Resolve by 1.
A wild animal keeps seeking you out in the field. After you survive a narrow scrape, it
4 Gain 1 rank in Animal Handling.
becomes something of a good luck charm.
5 Fixing TAGs isn’t cheap, something you now know all too well. Gain a debt worth 7 Assets.
Chess, Go, ancient card games, every time you meet the old woman, she’s got a Gain a Contact in a random faction. You can freely choose TAG
6 different game for you to play. Seems that all those chance meetings were you getting Specialist for your next career, provided that you take the Tactician
scouted. Speciality.
7 A TAG in your care fails spectacularly. Reduce Resolve by 1.
You were ordered to withdraw. And you meant to, but first you made the opposition, as You are Fired (see Infinity Corebook, p. 54). Gain Trait: Explosive
8
well as the local infrastructure, pay. Temper.
Gain 1 rank in Pilot, as well as a Criminal Record (see Infinity
9 Spending your free time in illegal street races was great...until you were ratted out.
Corebook, p. 54). Gain a Rival.
Either gain 1 rank in Extraplanetary, or increase Willpower by 1 and
10 In transit between planets, you get stranded outside the ship in a vac suit for days.
gain the Trait: Void Terror.
You spotted an attempted assassination and deftly positioned your vehicle in harm’s Gain an Ally in a random faction. You can freely choose TAG Specialist
11
way. for your next career, provided that you take the Defender Speciality.
12 People keep punching you in the face. Why? Gain Trait: Punchable Face. Increase Vigour by 1.
13 A brutal and sudden attack leaves you the last one standing. Gain Trait: Sole Survivor. Increase Resolve by 1.
Hiking in the mountains, you witness a rock climber take a nasty fall. If not for your Gain +1 rank in Medicine. You can freely choose TAG Crew for your
14
quick intervention, things would have been much worse. next career, provided that you take the Medical Speciality.
While piloting via remote presence, you got hit with some nasty biofeedback. The Reduce Perception by 1. Increase Willpower by 1. Gain Trait: Neural
15
doctors managed to stop the hallucinations...mostly. Feedback.
Once again, your commander took credit for your actions. They clearly don’t appreciate You can defect to the Corporate faction at this time. If you do, increase
16
your skills, but you met someone who does. your Earnings by +1.
An accident left you bedridden for months. While it gives you time to catch up on
17 Gain 1 rank in Education. Reduce either Agility or Brawn by 1.
other pursuits, your rehab progress is slow.
Working in a coalition force, you were discharged for opening fire on your fellow
You are Fired (see Infinity Corebook, p. 54). Gain Trait: Vengeful, and a
18 soldiers. Only two people know what really happened: you, and the hacker who was
Rival in a random faction.
supposed to have your back.
The last thing that you remember was joking that if this is the last thing you
19 Your character died and was Resurrected. (see Infinity Corebook, p. 54).
remember, something terrible has happened.
Roll again three times on the Career Event Table for this career phase.
With induction transmission powering many modern TAGs, the turn of phrase might (When spending a Life Point to choose a specific event, you may not
20 be a touch dated. That said, given the Interesting Times you’re currently living in, it choose this result.) If you roll duplicate events, it means some similar
certainly feels like you’ve got some Crossed Wires. event has occurred. If you roll Crossed Wires again, add additional
rolls.

HAVEN’T I SEEN YOU BEFORE?

Three of the careers in this chapter (Arms Dealer, Tactical Remote Presence Pilot, and TAG Pilot) also appear in other Infinity supplements.
They’re printed here as well, albeit with a more TAG-focused description, for convenience’s sake. Apart from the Infinity Corebook, the only
material you need to make TAG-focused characters is in your hands (or on your screen).

108 Chapter 6
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

CAREER PROFILE CAREER PROFILE

ARMS DEALER TACTICAL REMOTE

PRESENCE PILOT
With a clientele ranging from Submondo to the hyper-
elite, the modern Arms Dealer enjoys benefits that their Remote Presence Gear completely changes the rules for
predecessors only dreamed of. After all, it’s tough for a piloted combat, with Tactical Remote Presence (TRP) Pilots
detective to crack down on a dealer when their boss is a striding confidently through battlefields they’ll never see with
regular customer, and international sanctions only go so far their own eyes. Thanks to bleeding-edge remote presence
when the agencies applying them have need of your services. technology, these skilled operators can guide remotes, ships,
Mercenary companies, professionals seeking specific tools, and even TAGs into the heat of battle — all while safely tucked
selling in bulk to gangs, militias, governments, pirates, and away in a remote presence cradle, far away from danger. TRP
anyone else with the cash and a desire for firepower, Dealers Pilots don’t so much steer their vessels as they become them.
sell to any and all of them — provided they’ve got cash in Weaving their hosts through enemy fire with the confidence
hand. A good Arms Dealer knows an opportunity when they born from knowing that win or lose, they’re going to survive
see one, and TAGs are certainly that. Requiring special parts, this battle. Fear, hesitancy, and reluctance take a back seat to
discreet repairs, and an incredible amount of ammunition, a measured, tactical approach. Or hotshot antics, depending
a working TAG pilot is the gift that keeps on giving. Many on the pilot’s disposition and their commander’s ability to
dealers cultivate relationships with these wild cards, hoping rein them in.
to secure regular revenue — and of course, a heavily armoured
ATTRIBUTES
contact to call on when things get tense.
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
ATTRIBUTES +1 +2 +1 +3 +1 — +1
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
SKILLS EARNINGS
— +2 — +1 +1 +2 +3
Mandatory Pilot Spacecraft Tech 2+2 §
SKILLS EARNINGS Elective Ballistics Close Combat Extraplanetary
Mandatory Discipline Lifestyle Observation 1+5 §
Elective Ballistics Persuasion Stealth GEAR: Remote Presence Gear, 3 Stims

GEAR: AR Eye Implants, Armoured Clothing (several styles), Heavy

Pistol, Nanopulser
CAREER PROFILE
CAREER PROFILE
TAG CREW
SCRAP RUNNER
No TAG is an island. Operating, supplying, and maintaining
Arms dealers move a desirable product to markets that crave one — to say nothing of keeping its pilot alive — is a group
it, interplanetary law be damned. But that only works as long effort. In PanOceania, a single Remote Presence TAG is
as they’ve got goods to move, and those can be hard to come the product of three pilots, one engineer, and one medical
by, especially if they want a piece of the lucrative TAG parts specialist, all functioning together as a team. A mercenary
black market. That’s where Scrap Runners come in. Whether tech and pilot pair will likely need to repair their own
working directly for a dealer, operating as part of a gang or equipment — and each other — after every scuffle. From
pirate crew, or even freelancing, Scrap Runners keep their repair and medical specialists to communication experts and
clients stocked with the good stuff. Also, the “just okay” and infowarriors, being part of a TAG Crew means doing your part
“technically still working” stuff, but that’s beside the point. A to keep these colossi up and running, so that your enemies
skilled Scrap Runner can survey the smouldering wreckage keep running from them. Crews are frequently close-knit,
of a downed TAG and quickly determine the most valuable more like a family than a unit, and often focus on their area(s)
parts likely to be intact, ghosting away before the authorities of expertise long after the team disbands.
arrive. Whether they’re field-stripping an unattended vehicle,
scavenging a still-warm battlefield, or planning an elaborate ATTRIBUTES
heist, Scrap Runners keep their corner of the shadow AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
economy humming by hook or (more often) crook. +1 +1 +2 +2 +2 +1 +1
ATTRIBUTES SKILLS EARNINGS
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL Mandatory Discipline Pilot Tech 1+2 §
+2 +3 +1 +1 +1 +1 — Elective See TAG Crews

SKILLS EARNINGS GEAR: See TAG Crews

Mandatory Analysis Thievery Tech 1+4 § SPECIAL: When taking this career for the first time, roll on the TAG
Crews Table to determine your Role. Once you’ve determined your Role, you
Elective Observation Pilot Stealth no longer roll upon taking this career. But if desired, you can attempt an
GEAR: AR Eye Implants, Banshee Pistol (with 1 Reload), Average (D1) hazard test to repeat this career in the Role of your choice. In
Chameleonwear, Powered Multitool any case, you can instead spend 1 Life Point to simply choose your Squad.

TAG CHARACTERS 109

 CAREER PROFILE CAREER PROFILE
TAG CREWS
Each Crew has a distinct set of TAG PILOT TAG SPECIALIST
Elective Skills that members
pick up on the job. When Piloting a Tactical Armoured Gear is an experience unlike While TAGs all have several things in common— they’re
working the career, roll on the any other. Candidates train furiously just to handle the large, expensive, and powerful to name a few — they vary
TAG Specialties Table below or hulking mechanoids, forging an unshakeable confidence wildly between types, and even models. So too, do the pilots
spend 1 Life Point to select a widely considered necessary to be a one pilot army. Most who helm them, splintering off into a range of specialised
Specialty, then use its Electives. Pilots focus on versatility and fundamentals before delving
proficiencies.
At your GM’s discretion, you may into further specialisation. Piloting a TAG is a specialised
also use your Role’s Elective skill in and of itself, and would-be TAG jockeys who spread
Skills in place of the standard themselves too thin wind up crashing and burning in more ATTRIBUTES
for other careers on a case-by- ways than one. While some go on to become Specialist AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
case basis. Pilots, others are more than content to remain right where
+2 +2 +2 +2 — +1 +1
they are. After all, when you’re piloting destruction incar-
nate, what more could anyone ask for? SKILLS EARNINGS
Mandatory Ballistics Discipline Pilot 2+2 §
ATTRIBUTES
TAG SPECIALTIES Elective See TAG Specialities
Defender: In heavily armoured AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
TAGS like PanOceania’s +2 +2 +1 +2 +2 — +1 GEAR: See TAG Specialities
Jotums or Yu Jing’s Guījiă,
SPECIAL: When taking this career for the first time, roll on the TAG
Defenders hold the line SKILLS EARNINGS
Specialities Table to determine your Speciality. Once determined, you no
against impossible odds. Mandatory Ballistics Pilot Tech 2+1 § longer roll upon taking this career, though if desired, you can attempt an
Gunner: Unleashing a hellish
Elective Discipline Extraplanetary Survival Average (D1) hazard test to repeat this career in the Speciality of your
torrent of ammunition from
choice. In any case, you can instead spend 1 Life Point to simply choose your
weapons platforms like the
GEAR: Armoured Clothing (Uniform), Inlaid Palm Circuitry or AR Eye Speciality.
Acontecimento Dragoons’
Dragãos, Gunners dismantle Implants, Pistol (with 2 Reloads)
opposition with ballistic fury. SPECIAL:
Prowler: Masters of mobility, After completing this career, reduce the difficulty of hazarding the Specialist TAG SPECIALITIES TABLE
Prowlers know their terrain. TAG Pilot career by 1, to a minimum of 0. D20 Role Elective Skills Gear Free
Manifest in both the survival Selection
skills of the Tikbalangs and
the urban savvy of a Mercenary 1-5 Defender Close Combat, Light Com- Yu Jing
Discipline, bat Armour,
one with their environment TAG CREWS TABLE Resistance Sword
and make TAGs do things that
stagger the senses. D20 Role Elective Gear Free
Skills Selection
Tactician: It takes impressive
determination to show restraint 1-6 Communi- Hacking, Cosmetics Kit, O-12
behind the controls of a cations Lifestyle, Defensive Hacking
TAG, but that’s exactly what Persuade Device or Geist
Tacticians do. At the controls Upgrade (+2 ranks 6-10 Gunner Acrobatics, Assault PanOceania
of Haqqislam’s XPR-5 Akrep in Observation and Ballistics, Pistol (with
Scorpions, PanOceania’s Uhlans, Research Specialist Observation 3 Reloads),
talent for Education) Armoured
or something completely
unexpected, Tacticians are Clothing
masters of the ambush,
7-12 Medical Analysis, Basic Medical Haqqis- 11-14 Prowler Acrobatics, Inlaid Palm Minor
thinking five moves ahead at
Medicine, Supplies, MediKit, lam Athletics, Circuitry Nations
all times.
Survival Survival (Pilot),
Voidstrider: An uncommon— Knife,
but critical—specialisation, Survival Kit
Voidstriders train extensively
in microgravity and zero-g 13- Mechanist Hacking, Deployable Repeater, Merce- 15-18 Tactician Analysis, Multispec- Haqqislam
environments, ensuring 20 Obser- Powered Multitool, nary Observation, tral Visor 1
superior firepower in even the vation, Repair Kit (with 2 Stealth Stealth
most unorthodox situations. Tech Parts) Repeater

19-20 Voidstrider Extraplanetary, Inlaid Palm Nomads

Spacecraft, Circuitry
Tech (Spacecraft),
Survival
Rations, Vac
Suit

110 Chapter 6

CHAPTER 7
ARMOURED CAMPAIGNS
Since the days of the Nanotech Wars, the bat-
tlefields of the Human Sphere have all involved
dynamic offensives that rely on speed, mobility, and
offensive clout in compact packages. Flashpoints
and combat zones are often secured within hours
and days, rather than weeks and months, making
the tactics and logistical requirements employed
in the conflicts of previous centuries unviable and
obsolete. The practice of war required a new idol to
deliver its hammer blow. Tactical Armoured Gear—
TAGs— are the highly mobile yet totally protected
powerhouses designed with one single purpose:
delivering the knockout punch on the high-tech,
highly fluid battlegrounds of the quantronic age.
Having such destructive forces placed in the hands
of the player characters can be an intimidating
prospect for a GM. This chapter aims to provide
advice and guidance for incorporating these titanic
elements in any game of Infinity the Roleplaying
Game, regardless of whether a single PC is at the
controls or the GM has been blessed with an entire
troupe of colossal war machines.
GO BIG OR GO HOME
TAGs bring serious tactical considerations for the
battlefield commanders of the various G5 nations.
This is no different for Gamemasters running an
armoured campaign. A GM’s first consideration
should be whether TAGs are allowable as a player
option or not. As this sourcebook is specifically
designed around these single-manned weapons
platforms, and this section in particular is aimed at
running games that involve the PCs having access
to them, the content of this chapter assumes that
the GM has indeed considered and agreed to their
inclusion in the PCs’ arsenal.
With the inclusion of TAGs addressed, GMs are next
advised to fully embrace their undeniable impact
on the dynamics of scenes and campaigns. TAGs are
titans of the battlefield in their own right.
A squadron of TAGs in the hands of the PCs is a
fast-moving tsunami capable of sweeping multiple
foes before it. More in-depth advice is offered on
p. 112 of this chapter, but the overall sentiment is
to recognise that the large-scale threats the PCs
provide will need a commensurate ramping of
danger levels to prevent each scene from playing
like a combine harvester mowing through wheat.
As with normal campaigns, not every scene in
THE ROLEPLAYING GAME
armoured campaign should be a life-or-death
experience with the outcome hanging in the “PanOceania are at the cutting
balance. The PCs should be provided with plenty edge of TAG technology for
of opportunity to shine against opponents that many reasons, and not just
because they wish to dominate
offer little more than a speed bump. But providing
the battlefield. Let us not forget
a sense of real danger will require a degree of
all of the benefits in other
adjustment to the normal recommended challenge fields that the development
levels. If this isn’t acknowledged from the outset, of these high-tech machines
campaigns will run the risk of losing focus and has brought—nanotech
fragmenting as the PCs readily steamroll through polymers that have benefited
every encounter. those requiring artificial
limbs, exploration of extreme
environments that have led to
ONE CAMPAIGN TO BIND THEM
all manner of discoveries, and
Although they aren’t a requirement for run-
human-robotic interfaces that
ning TAG campaigns, a number of previously are seamless to name but a
published sourcebooks offer supplementary few. Yes, the hyperpowers use
rules for campaigns that would compliment an them to dominate battlefields,
armoured foray well: but they also use them to
push boundaries in so many
• The mercantile campaign section in Ariad- other areas.”
na already offers advice on running a game
Retired Colonel Jordan Harpero,
involving TAGs. The logistics involved with op- Professor of Military History,
erating and maintaining a single TAG, let alone University of San Pietro, Neoterra
a unit of them, would definitely warrant the
additional options covered in this sourcebook.
It really depends on how far into bookkeeping
the group would like to delve.
• Haqqislam takes a look at privateering and
corsairs, which would very much suit a stellar
campaign that involves plenty of boarding ac-
tion. The close confines of smaller ships would
also make interesting settings for some action
scenes. Just picture a TAG strolling along a
ship’s hull to attack from a forward observation
section!
• While ALEPH looks at campaigns from the
lens of the Steel Phalanx, everything about
the Assault Subsection screams ‘larger than
life’, which is perfect for TAG campaigns. The
advice and mission objectives discussed within
this sourcebook are equally relevant for an
armoured campaign, particularly if a group of
Maruts is in play!
• In a similar manner to this sourcebook, War
Market really helps to draw the multi-faceted
aspects of a game of Infinity the Roleplaying
Game together. From contract negotiations to
management of the company and available
contracts, War Market provides plenty of inspi-
ration and depth for TAG campaigns in which
the players have struck out on their own. And
of course, who wouldn’t jump at the chance to
join the ranks of the Anaconda TAG Squadron?
ARMOURED CAMPAIGNS 111
 STRIKING A BALANCE
Including any scene that involves action and
combat always requires a little thought on the
part of the GM, particularly in terms of the level of
danger any adversaries are intended to represent.
The guidance on p. 408 of the Infinity Corebook
states that a challenging combat encounter should
consist of a number of Elite adversaries equalling
between one-and-a-half to two times the number
of PCs. Trooper adversaries count as half an Elite,
while Nemesis adversaries can replace two or
more Elites.
In terms of TAG campaigns, the comparisons
provided above are fine if the PCs are facing
opponents that are also operating TAGs, but they
need to be adjusted accordingly if the PCs are
fighting opponents who are not benefitting from
Total Protection. The GM should also bear in mind
the number of TAGs being piloted by the PCs. An
entire party of TAG operators will be able to face
a larger number of unarmoured opponents than a
group with only a single TAG pilot. In general, each
PC-operated TAG should be able to face at least
four non-TAG adversaries without too much trouble.
A player group who are entirely outfitted with TAGs
can be considered to have one additional player
when calculating how many opponents they can
face (i.e. the number of players plus one).
TAG ADVERSARY
ADJUSTMENT TABLE
Number of
Adjustment to Non- Adjustment to
PC-Operated
TAG Adversaries TAG Adversaries
TAGs
None—follow the
4 Elites per TAG, plus
Full TAG standard guidance
one additional group
Campaign for encounter
of Elites.
design.
One or Two
4 Elites per TAG. As above.
TAGs
112 chapter 7
CRITICAL ADVERSARIES
There are a handful of adversaries that will present
a fair challenge or consummate danger to a TAG
operator regardless of whether the adversary is
also piloting a TAG or not. A dedicated team of
expert hackers equipped with Hacking Device
Pluses and programs such as Expel or Total Control,
for instance, will provide a significant threat to
TAG-equipped characters, as will Elites equipped
with plenty of anti-armour weaponry. Unless
the GM is intending for a particular scenario to
be overly dangerous or intense, these critical
adversaries should follow the standard guidance for
encounter design when included in a scene.
Examples of critical adversaries include: Elite
or Nemesis hackers with programs capable of
disabling or controlling TAGs, Troopers and Elites
with access to Anti-Materiel weapons and/or
weaponry with high Piercing ratings, and ALEPH
Aspects and their equivalent.
LEVELS OF ENGAGEMENT
Any number of PCs utilising TAGs in their armoury
will need to be integrated correctly into a
campaign, even if only one of them is fortunate
enough to be playing with the big guns. This
section provides guidance for creating engaging
campaigns for player groups containing either a
single or several TAGs in their arsenal.
ALL-STAR CAMPAIGNS
All-star campaigns relate to the fact that every
PC has their own TAG that they are comfortably
able to pilot. In addition to the balancing aspects
discussed previously, certain aspects of all-star
campaigns will need consideration before this type
of campaign is committed to, most of which are
covered below.
WARFARE FOCUSSED
If the players are all choosing to play as pilots of
walking tanks, it should go without saying that the
Warfare aspect of the multi-layered conflict arenas
will feature heavily. The players will expect to be
mowing their opponents down with chain rifles
and blowing targets up with panzerfausts, so GMs
should aim to let them more often than not.

As TAGs make pretty overawing figures for the
purposes of crowd control and intimidation — and
even TAG pilots can get embroiled in intense social
scenes when outside of their bulky suits — theres
plenty of options to break up the action with a
little Psywar. Plus, every self-respecting pilot knows
that a decent hacker is a TAG pilot’s best friend, so
there should also be the occasional opportunity
to utilise Infowar. Once these scenes are done
with, however, GMs should head straight back to
the action.
LOGISTICALLY INTENSE
Although TAG squadrons require less logistics than
their 21st century tank equivalents, getting these
robotic monstrosities into battle and repairing
them afterwards still requires a dedicated and
well-trained team with access to extremely
specialist equipment. Which is even more true
if said team are part of a remotely-operated
TAG package. In light of this, GMs will need to
carefully consider how much the functional side
of owning and operating a TAG will impact the
campaign. The logistical aspect of a campaign
should also be discussed with the players before a
campaign begins.
Some GMs and players may prefer to hand wave
the logistical aspect of TAG campaigns. Each TAG is
simply repaired between scenarios or sessions and
travels to wherever it is needed next, which leaves
the PCs free to stomp across the next battlefield
without having to worry about bookkeeping or
spares and repairs. This option works particularly
well when the GM wishes to maintain a fast-
paced campaign that is action-intensive and is
particularly suited to campaigns in which the PCs
are part of a well-established TAG squadron. The
Maintenance aspect of a TAG can often be ignored
completely by the PCs in a single faction campaign
in which they are all part of the same military unit.
(Although Commanding Officers may summon the
PCs for questioning if they are regularly trashing
their armoured behemoths.)
On the other hand, some groups may enjoy catering
to every aspect of caring for their TAGs. Armour,
weaponry, ammo, and personnel are all essential
to maintaining a healthy TAG and pilot, so the
GM and players may wish to monitor and develop
these aspects themselves. This is particularly
true if the TAG campaign is also merged with a
mercenary theme, and the characters have taken
on prominent roles within the outfit. Every credit
will likely count in the early days if so, and the
choice between making a minor repair to a TAG
or purchasing replacement ammo can make for
intense decisions. Of course, then there are also
travel costs to consider…
THE ROLEPLAYING GAME
NON-STANDARD DEFAULT
The default O-12 agent setting for Infinity
the Roleplaying Game doesn’t work as well with
the all-star campaigns. In fact, unless the PCs are
part of a multi-factional TAG taskforce dedicated
to a particular mission — which isn’t entirely
implausible if set somewhere like the Paradiso
system — it is highly likely that the PCs all hail
from the same faction and are probably all from
the same unit. With this in mind, GMs should
plan and discuss options with the players before
launching an all-star TAG campaign.
Some questions to answer when designing the
campaign include which faction the PCs will hail
from, which unit, if any, they are attached to, which
battlefields will they be expected to deploy to, and
how all of these will tie into the overarching theme
of the narrative.
If the campaign includes a mercenary element
that sees the PCs hiring their services out for pay,
then they can certainly hail from different factions.
Mercenary outfits rarely recruit from a single ethnic
group, after all. A mercenary TAG campaign is likely
the closest option to the standard default setting
for the Infinity RPG, although in this instance the
PCs will only wind up working for O-12 if they work
hard at securing the contract.
HOT TOPICS
While GMs discussing campaign options with
players is mentioned a few times throughout this
chapter, the subject is definitely worth covering
on its own merit. Any roleplaying game is a
collaborative effort between a group of players,
with each individual both contributing to the
narrative and, in return, being engaged by it. The
GM’s job is already likely intense enough without
worrying over whether the players are invested
in the campaign themes and mechanical options
from the outset. Involving the players in the
decisions related to the headings within the all-
star and crackerjack sections of this chapter will
invest the players from the outset. Additionally,
taking this step will reassure the GM that they are
onboard with many of the mechanical inclusions
or omissions, as the players will have been part of
the fundamental choice to involve or restrict their
use. If these choices are made while the outline of
the campaign is still loose, the GM also has plenty
of time to adjust the structure to accommodate
player input. If the GM has an overarching theme
but has yet to choose which faction it relates to,
for instance, confirming which faction the players
would prefer to be part of would be of great
benefit before filling in any further details.
ARMOURED CAMPAIGNS 113

“Lose my seat in my TAG? Aww, c’mon
sir! This baby has seen me through more
scrapes than all the razorblades I’ve used
combined. Yeah, I know I have a beard but
I haven’t always had one. Look, I didn’t
mean to cause so many fireworks on that
last retrieval mission. How was I to know
that some of those filthy Shasvastii had laid
their little spawn around the Arachne node?
I had no choice but to frag it and barely
got out with my own skin intact, let alone
my Gecko’s! Give me one more chance and
a decent team around me. I won’t let you
down, sir.”
Lieutenant María “Crackerjack” Napasa,
14th Gecko Squadron, after-action review
following the attempted retrieval of a
hidden Arachne node during the Third
Offensive, Uqbar, Paradiso.
114 chapter 7
CRACKERJACK CAMPAIGNS
Crackerjack campaigns involve only one or two of
the PCs enjoying access to a TAG. While all three
of the all-star headings are relevant, some of them
need additional consideration. There are also one
or two more points to consider beyond these. All of
the balancing notes mentioned at the start of this
chapter are also still relevant.
WARFARE WHEN REQUIRED
While this likely still remains true for the PC
piloting the TAG, it may not be the case for the
rest of the group. One of the tricks of good GMing
often involves striking a balance between players
sharing the limelight. If the PCs consist of a TAG
pilot, a bureaucrat, and a scientist, the GM will
need to carefully consider scenes that present
opportunities for each character to shine. So that
no one player is left on the side lines, however,
such scenes should also allow the other characters
to conduct supporting roles if and when possible.
In the previous setup of PCs, for instance, a
Warfare scene dominated by TAG action might
also require the bureaucrat to use Psywar in the
hopes of winning over new allies, all while the
scientist is delicately recovering a deadly batch of
biochemicals from behind the defensive shield the
TAG is providing. Likewise, the TAG could provide
a much-needed intimidatory factor to Psywar
scenes designed to allow the bureaucrat to shine,
or a remote handling option when the scientist is
finally able to get around to studying those deadly
biochemicals.
A final consideration here for crackerjack
campaigns that remain Warfare focussed would
be a PC group that integrate with each other as
a support network to keep the TAG functioning. A
pilot operates the TAG to deadly effect in combat
and is protected from Infowar attacks by a PC
with hacking expertise whilst doing so. A PC with
engineering skills lays out deadly traps to protect campaigns will be top-heavy with action scenes,
the TAG from flanking attacks as another PC with
media expertise records the whole battle via
drones, ready to edit the footage later to boost
the crew’s prestige. Once the Warfare scene is
complete, the hacker, engineer, and warcors share
the limelight as they each work on repairing the
TAG and ensuring future engagements.
SHARED LOGISTICS
Having a TAG on the PCs’ side provides a hefty
punch during Warfare scenes, but it also includes a safety of a TAG, however, or indeed be completely
weighty cost in terms of maintenance and transport restricted to Warfare. Suggestions for alternative
once the action is over. The GM can always opt to
hand wave these costs in a similar manner to that
suggested under the all-star campaigns logistically
intense heading, above. Doing so, however,
may unbalance the dynamics of upkeep and
Maintenance in the eyes of the other players. After
all, the TAG player opted for the knockout punch,
and the associated cost of upkeep could very much
be considered the balancing factor where this is
concerned.
Clearly, careful consideration will need to be given
to the logistical aspects of TAG ownership in a
crackerjack campaign. Again, GMs may wish to
involve all of the players in a discussion concerning
the pros and cons of this factor. It may not even be
a concern for them at all, or they might just offer to
help spread any associated cost between the whole
group as having a TAG for support clearly benefits
everyone. Regardless, having this conversation
before a campaign begins will help to avoid any
pitfalls where this is concerned.
STANDARD DEFAULT
A crackerjack campaign does allow a GM to follow
the standard default setting for the Infinity RPG a
little more closely. O-12 can commission TAG pilots
as Bureau Aegis agents for any number of reasons,
and whilst the agent may not be able to field their
trusty battlesuit on every operation, there will likely
be more than a few Code: Infinity type situations
that allow them to break open the TAG lockup.
However, more than one TAG in the outfit will need
a little more thought.
Of course, the GM and players still have the option
of running a mercenary campaign that involves
operations requiring TAG involvement, the multi-
factional taskforce mentioned in the non-standard
default heading is also viable, and the PCs may
all still hail from the same faction. All of these
possibilities provide for a perfect troubleshooting
team that are able to face a variety of situations.
TAGGING OBJECTIVES
With a virtual certainty that TAG-focussed
specifically of the Warfare variety, GMs can
concentrate on planning their key scenarios well
in advance of each session — keeping in mind
the adversarial adjustments mentioned at the
beginning of this chapter, of course. To make the
most of a Warfare scene involving TAGs, GMs
should consider answering the key heading
listed below.
Not every scene needs to involve Warfare from the
Warfare scenes and TAG-related Psywar and Infowar
scenes are also provided here.

ELEVATOR PITCH In the first example presented under the “Elevator
The pitch is a short description of the scene, the
environment it takes place in, and its connection
to the overall narrative. To help set the scene and
mood of a Warfare scenario during the game, this
can be even be passed to the players as a brief
from their intelligence operatives or commanders.
The use of props such as military dossiers here can
definitely help to invest the players in the scene.
“Advance scouts have detected clandestine units
operating deep in the Ariadnan Exclusion Zone. A
show of force should be enough to deter future
activity without sparking an international incident.
Advance to contact and make your presence known
but do not engage.”
“An asteroid mining operation in the Human Edge
is risking closure due to continual harassment by a
small and stealthy band of well-trained pirates. The
tunnels and zero-g environment are perfect for TAG
operations. Make sure that the pirates are unable
to prey on the mining operation ever again.”
DIFFICULTY more covert operations too. If the scenario involves
How difficult is the scenario intended to be?
This relates to the adversaries involved, the
environment it is taking place in, and the overall
effect the scenario will have on the continuing
narrative of the campaign. It will also need to be
considered against both the objectives and stakes
discussed next.
If the PCs are playing in an all-star campaign and
are fighting a rearguard or offensive action during
the brutal conflicts of the Third Offensive, then
they are likely facing some of the most dangerous
opponents the Combined Army can field, such
as Raicho units or an EI Avatar. If they fail, other
units are lost during the retreat or the offensive
collapses. On the flip side, a routine patrol along a
riverbed might expose them to packs of hungries
that prove to be little more than an annoyance
and a waste of ammo. Dealing with them, however,
allows future scouting missions by lightly armoured
troops to travel unhindered.
Difficulty can also be related to the three aspects
of conflict. A scenario that features a moderate
risk in terms of Warfare might become deadly
if Infowar has a potentially dangerous impact
against the TAGs.
OBJECTIVE objective, perhaps the PCs begin the next session
Again, not only the overall objective of the scenario, with reduced ammo, are unable to fully repair
but also how this affects the continuing narrative.
What happens if the PCs’ objective is successful?
And what are the repercussions to the continuing
story if they fail?
THE ROLEPLAYING GAME
Pitch” heading, the PCs have been tasked with
scaring off some shadowy operators though they
haven’t been told who they are. What happens
when they discover the agents’ identities? How far
will the agents go to avoid discovery? If the PCs do
engage, what are the ramifications? No one wants
to see a new era of Commercial Conflicts, after all.
To answer the questions posed above, the GM
will likely need to make a short note of each
participant’s objective, not just that of the PCs.
This is especially true if recurring adversaries are
involved, as the GM will want to keep track of
how each scene impacts the adversary’s morale,
resources, and future objectives.
Common objectives for TAG campaigns will often
involve Warfare-related goals. Forward and routine
patrols, take and hold, spearhead offensive, and
defensive linchpin are all suitable objectives for
Warfare scenes involving TAGs. Although, to be
honest, the tactical flexibility of TAGs means they
can often be considered for less confrontational,
a Psywar or Infowar related objective, a note should
be included on how the PCs will be able to achieve
a positive outcome. Will they be providing a screen
for other specialists, for instance, or will their
presence provide additional bonuses and impact in
terms of Psywar?
Potential Psywar objectives could include the
PCs adding weight to civilian pacification or an
intimidatory factor to negotiations. Note, this
doesn’t mean that the PCs are there to lay waste
to innocent civilians, rather that their mere
presence can be used to quell rebellious factions,
for instance. In terms of Infowar, the PCs could be
part of a VR-constructed scene that requires both
TAG piloting skills and knowledge of manipulating
the data construct, though it is likely they will be
relying on the support of a specialist to achieve
their objective.
GMs can also build specific rewards or penalties
into the scenario that directly relate to success
or failure. If the PCs succeed at the scenario’s
objective, maybe they begin the subsequent
session with additional equipment or an extra
Infinity Point, or perhaps an opportunity to obtain
additional upgrades to either their TAG or its
ammo load. Likewise, if they fail to complete the
their machines in between, or the GM begins the
subsequent session with additional Heat points.
There should be relatable consequences for the
status of an objective.
ARMOURED CAMPAIGNS 115

“My TAG company is a military
asset, not a glorified honour
guard. They survived the worst
the enemy had to throw at us
during the defence of Aritya,
and we’re just now rebuilding
from that debacle. This is far
from the perfect time for some
R&R. We need to get back out
there and teach those aliens
that they might win a battle
or two but they won’t win the
war. With all due respect, sir, if
you want an honour guard, go
and ask the 10th. They’re used
to keeping their machines all
shiny and parade ready.”
Lieutenant Colonel William
Kestrel, 3rd Heavy Lancers,
Squalos Company of the
Neoterran Capitaline Army
attached to Red-K Combat Group,
Paradiso.
116 chapter 7
ENVIRONMENT
The environment has an undeniable impact on
the PCs’ preparations and the scenario itself.
Making a note of these effects beforehand
and translating them to the players will make
for exciting dynamics during the game. Zero-g,
extremes of temperature, and close confines will
all offer additional complexities that will need to
be overcome, but will they also provide additional
Heat spend options? GMs should also bear in mind,
however, that additional environmental factors
will impact the overall challenge the scenario
represents.
The ultimate environment for TAG campaigns
relates to the PCs being caught outside of their
machines. Used to steamrollering over most
objectives thanks to their armoured suits, suddenly
they find themselves exposed and relying on their
own strength. A note of caution here, however, as
overusing the exposed PCs option will quickly
become tiresome for the players. They have signed
up to play a TAG campaign, after all.
PARTICIPANTS Also consider the pacing of the scenario. Is it a
Who are the key participants of the scene? The PCs
and their adversaries will clearly be the focus, but sprint from objective to objective on a dynamic
are there any other individuals or groups that could battlefield? Or is it a slow-building scenario that
have an impact on the narrative and/or systems
in play? Innocent bystanders, irate sympathisers,
warcors ready to record broadcast failure, corporate
executives, and alien infiltrators are just some
examples of other parties that might be present.
STAKES
Closely associated with objectives, the stakes
relate to the elements that each faction involved
stands to gain or lose. For the PCs, it might simply
be a case of losing a battle but continuing an
increasingly difficult war. The scenario’s outcome,
however, will also have an effect on everyone
involved (and even some who aren’t). What
happens if the PCs discover that the operatives
flouting the rules of the Ariadnan Exclusion Zone
hail from their own faction? Especially if those
operatives resent their discovery and decide to
engage the PCs. Will contending with the pirates on
the Human Edge asteroid be enough? Or will the
PCs need to follow up with an attack on the pirates’
base? Will this lead to the discovery of another
faction funding the pirates’ activities?
STYLE
The theme and mood of the campaign can come
into play here, though each scenario can also
introduce a number of new elements. Are there
any specific visuals that need relating? What
other sensory elements can provide a focus?
fast-paced, action heavy scenario that sees the PCs
ramps up the tension until the pirates spring a
reverse ambush?
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

CHAPTER 8

BATTLEFIELD COLOSSI
Though this chapter focuses on the heavy hitters
of the Infinity universe, that doesn’t mean that TAG
combat should focus solely on the clash of mecha-
nised titans. A handful of TAGs can handily take out
waves of lightly armoured enemies, and a single
TAG versus multiple opponents can be a thrilling
battle from either side of the equation. So, whether
your characters are facing down hordes of Troopers,
or need to team up to take down a single heavily
armed Nemesis, TAGs alter the dynamic of combat
in dramatic ways.
These adversaries represent an array of TAG-scale
threats, providing a single profile so that GMs
have everything they need to stage truly epic
TAG-sized battles. That said, adversaries can also
be combined with vehicles to create unique and
challenging opponents. While this requires some
advance preparation —it’s not recommended
that you try to combine pilots and vehicles into
adversaries on the fly —it can create some truly
memorable encounters.
OTHER THREATS
TROOPER
BLACKJACKS
The 10th Heavy Rangers Battalion has a brutal
reputation, and they’ve earned every bit of it. The
tenth battalion — collectively known as Blackjacks
— aren’t interested in concessions, stalemates, or
taking prisoners. Taking this to an extreme, once
the smoke clears, the Blackjacks make their way
through the battlefield and put down any survivors
with a single, fatal bullet, leaving a literal calling
card on the body in the form of an ace of spades.
While somewhat less daunting when your enemies
all have Cubes, the message remains the same.
When the Blackjacks arrive, it’s not to make nice.
While technically not TAGs, anyone facing down
a squadron of Blackjacks in their Buffalo Armour
could be forgiven for confusing the issue. The
sight of a massive exoskeleton advancing on your
position, murder gleaming in its pilot’s eyes, is
enough to make anyone ignore semantics.
ATTRIBUTES
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
8 8 10 10 7 7 13

TAGs might be the big kids on the block, but that FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
doesn’t mean they’re the only threat operating Combat +2 1 Movement — — Social — —
at that scale. While any military force without an Fortitude +2 2 Senses +1 1 Technical +1 —
answer to a TAG will be in for a world of hurt if
one shows up, there exist answers besides meeting DEFENCES
Firewall 7 Resolve 13 Vigour 10
Security — Morale — Armour 5
ATTACKS
AP HMG: Range L, 2+6§ damage, Burst 3, Unwieldy, Piercing 2, Spread 1,
Unsubtle
Teseumwith
TAGs Chopper: Melee, TAGs.
more 1+5§ damage, Unbalanced, Non-Hackable,
Piercing 4, Vicious 2
GEAR: Buffalo Armour (Exoskeleton 3, Heavy Armour)
SPECIAL ABILITIES
The Winning Hand: Blackjacks bring the pain. When using the Bonus Damage
Momentum spend, Blackjacks add +2 damage for every 1 Momentum spent
Heavyweight: Bulkier than immediately apparent, Heavyweight units are
comparatively ponderous and lethargic next to most modern designs.
• +2 difficulty to tests where great size or weight would be
problematic.
• Not required to brace Unwieldy weapons.
• Use 2H weapons in one hand without penalty.
• Spend 1 Momentum before attacking to add Knockdown to its
melee attacks for the current turn.
Chest Mines (1-4 Heat): Upon being taken out, the GM can inflict X+X§
damage to all characters within Close Range of the Blackjack (where X is
equal to the Heat spent). This damage can be avoided by a successful Defence
Reaction, but only when using Acrobatics.
Ambulatory Tank: The armour has Armour Soak as listed, Structure score of 8,
can take up to 4 Faults before being disabled, and absorbs damage in place of
the wearer until disabled. The wearer takes any excess damage not absorbed by
the armour when that occurs.

BATTLEFIELD COLOSSI 117

 TROOPER ELITE

EJECTED PILOT GUNSHIP

In the battlefields of the Human Sphere, replacing Not all the heavy hitters are ground-bound.
a pilot might be cheaper than replacing a gunship Fragile compared to a TAG — though what
or TAG, but defeat can be even more costly. Thus, isn’t? — atmospheric gunships can wreak havoc
it’s not an uncommon sight to see pilots hurled on unprepared forces, flanking them from
from the soon-to-be wreckage of their craft, only unanticipated angles, and unleashing a torrent of
to draw a sidearm and join the fray on their own ship-scale weaponry.
merits. Bloodied and broken — but not yet beaten
— ejected pilots aren’t going down without a fight. ATTRIBUTES
Several fights, to be precise.
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
11 9 6 13 10 7 7
ATTRIBUTES
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
8 7 8 10 8 7 8 Combat +2 2 Movement +2 2 Social — —
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE Fortitude — — Senses +2 2 Technical — —
Combat +1 — Movement +1 1 Social +1 — DEFENCES
Fortitude — — Senses +1 — Technical +1 — Firewall 10 Resolve 7 Vigour 6

DEFENCES
Security 2 Morale — Armour 5

Firewall 4 Resolve 4 Vigour 4 ATTACKS

Security — Morale — Armour — HMG: Range L, 2+7 § damage, Burst 3, Unwieldy, Spread 1, Unsubtle

ATTACKS: Missile Launcher: Range L, 2+7 §, Burst 1, Unwieldy, Munition

Knife: Melee, 1+3 § damage, 1H, Concealed 1, Non-Hackable, Subtle 2,
Thrown, Unforgiving 1 SPECIAL ABILITIES
Pistol: Range R/C, 1+4 § damage, Burst 1, 1H, Vicious 1 EW Suite: Advanced counter-intrusion measures grant the gunship 2
Morale Soak.
GEAR: Survival Rations
SPECIAL ABILITIES
Not Dead Yet (1 Heat): When a TAG, gunship, or other vehicle is taken
out, the GM can summon an ejected pilot within close range of the
vehicle. Unlike other reinforcements, the ejected pilot can act during the
round they arrive. Needless to say, this ability does nothing if the vehicle
doesn’t have a pilot, as with Remote Presence TAGs.
NOTES: The ejected pilot is included as a convenient way to
represent a particular battlefield condition. To represent a healthy pilot
who simply isn’t in a TAG at the moment, use the TAG Pilot (see Infinity
Corebook, p. 457) or similar adversary for a better result.

118 chapter 8
 THE ROLEPLAYING GAME

ELITE ELITE

FIELD HACKER SABOTEUR

Doing more with a quantronic command than a While most units tend to have members with the
battalion of small arms, few forces in the Human ingenuity to sneak into a TAG hanger and set a
Sphere don’t recognise the value of hackers when bomb, real saboteurs are experts in making minor, The field hacker stats can be
going up against TAGs. While each faction has visually indistinguishable alterations to a unit used when a hacker is needed
their own specialised infowarriors, the field hacker and leave it a disaster in the making. Even more on the spot or where other
tends to serve in less official and often Submondo cunning saboteurs will damage one unit with sourcebooks are not available.
capacities or on occasions where there is simply no enough tell-tale signs that the entire hanger has
other option available. to be checked. Whether tying up artificial muscle,
part sheering a connection bolt or installing a
ATTRIBUTES feedback loop on a neural interface, these virtuosos
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL of the spy craft are seldom seen, but the treat of
their existence keeps most pilots and mechanics
8 9 7 9 13 8 9
awake at night.
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Combat — — Movement +2 2 Social — — ATTRIBUTES
Fortitude — — Senses +2 2 Technical +2 2 AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
DEFENCES 9 9 8 8 9 7 8
Firewall 13 Resolve 9 Vigour 7 FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Security 2 Morale 1 Armour 1 Combat +1 — Movement +1 1 Social +1 —
ATTACKS Fortitude — — Senses +1 — Technical +2 1
Pistol: Range R/C, 1+5 § damage, Burst 1, 1H, Vicious 1 DEFENCES
SPECIAL ABILITIES Firewall 9 Resolve 8 Vigour 8
Software Suite: While the TAG-Killer Assault hacking device on page Security 2 Morale 3 Armour 1
496 of the Infinity Corebook is recommended, the hacker should be
outfitted with whatever programs the Gamemaster feels is suitable. ATTACKS
Knife: Melee, 1+3 § damage, 1H, Concealed 1, Non-Hackable, Subtle
Looking for the Next Score: When using the Senses Field of Expertise,
2, Thrown, Unforgiving 1
the field hacker gains 1 bonus Momentum to find objects of value.
Pistol: Range R/C, 1+5 § damage, Burst 1, 1H, Vicious 1

GEAR: Toolkit

SPECIAL ABILITIES
Fitting In: When attempting stealth actions in a hanger or other
similar military facility, the Saboteur can use their Technical Field of
Expertise.
With a Resounding Crash: When facing a TAG, a saboteur can pay 3
Heat to have manipulated it in some way. This immediately causes the
TAG to suffer a Fault.

BATTLEFIELD COLOSSI 119

 TROOPER/ELITE TROOPER/ELITE

TAG HUNTERS WEAPONS PLATFORMS

If you need to take on a TAG, conventional wisdom From wall-mounted missile launchers to pop-up
suggests that the most efficient way to do so is turrets and stationary guns, the Human Sphere
either with an expert hacker or a TAG of your own, has a long history of using weapon emplacements
preferably a bigger one. And while that might be to tackle serious threats. Automated or Remote
the case, it’s certainly not the only way. From the Presence-controlled units are a staple of defence
reliable performance of Kaplan Tactical Services to installations, but for pure effectiveness, it’s still
Ariadna’s Tankhunters Regiment, the militaries of hard to beat a manned weapon, hence their
the Human Sphere have long known that there’s appearance across the battlegrounds of the
more than one way to take out the armoured Human Sphere.
behemoths. And while “blow it up” might not be the
most novel solution, TAG Hunters have frustrated ATTRIBUTES
more than a few commanders who relied on their
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL
Armoured Gears carrying the day, only to watch
8 8 10 10 9 9 10
those plans go up in literal smoke, emanating
from the twisted wreck of their expensive tactical FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
centrepiece. Combat +2 2 Movement - - Social - -
Fortitude +3 - Senses +1 1 Technical - -
ATTRIBUTES DEFENCES (TROOPER)
AGI AWA BRW COO INT PER WIL Firewall 5 Resolve 5 Vigour 5
8 10 8 10 8 8 11
Security - Morale - Armour 1
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
DEFENCES (ELITE)
Combat +1 1 Movement +1 1 Social — —
Firewall 9 Resolve 10 Vigour 10
Fortitude — — Senses +2 1 Technical +1 1
Security - Morale - Armour 1
DEFENCES (TROOPER)
ATTACKS:
Firewall 4 Resolve 6 Vigour 4
Choose one of the following:
Security — Morale — Armour 2
1. Combi Rifle: Range C/M, 1+5 § damage, Burst 2, 2H, Expert 1,
DEFENCES (ELITE) MULTI Light Mod, Vicious 1
Firewall 8 Resolve 11 Vigour 8 2. Missile Launcher: Range L, 2+7 §, Burst 1, Unwieldy, Munition
Security — Morale — Armour 2 3. HMG (Elite Only): Range L, 2+6 § damage, Burst 3, Unwieldy,
Spread 1, Unsubtle
ATTACKS:
SPECIAL ABILITIES
Adhesive Launcher: Range M, 1+6 § damage, Burst 1, Unwieldy,
Munition The Personal Touch (Elite Only): There’s nothing quite like being
there yourself. The platform’s operator can reroll up to 1d20 when
Light Flamethrower: Range C, 1+6 § Burst 1, 2H, Incendiary 3,
making a ranged attack but must accept the new result.
Munition, Terrifying 2, Torrent
Missile Launcher: Range L, 2+7 §, Burst 1, Unwieldy, Munition
GEAR: Light Combat Armour NOTES:
SPECIAL ABILITIES Elite Weapons Platforms are controlled by a single operator; the
Common Special Abilities: Threatening 1 Elite stats reflect this change. This operator can be targeted like a
NOTES: Troopers choose one of the available attacks. Elites have separate hit location (use the Ejected Pilot, p. 118). Taking them out
access to all listed options. will leave the platform unmanned. If this occurs, other characters
— including the PCs — can freely use the mounted weapon without
penalty. In case of the missile launcher, if a PC or allied NPC uses
it, they can spend Momentum instead of Heat to fulfil its Munitions
requirement.

120 chapter 8