Shadowrun: The Trading Card Game
- Designer Mike Nielsen
- Publisher Diseños Orbitales , Fanpro , FASA , ISA
- Illustration Paul Bonner , Jeff Laubenstein , Dany Orizio
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
You enter a futuristic world where magic, elves, and technology collide. Using deck construction, you build your deck from runners, objectives, challenges, gear, locations, contacts, and specials. You send runners on runs to objectives, using symbols to overcome challenges while managing scarce money resources. Locations and contacts influence your success, and special cards can affect the current situation.
Who Is This Game For?
The game targets fans of complex collectible card games aged 12 and up who enjoy a blend of fantasy and science fiction. With a playtime of about 60 minutes, it suits players experienced in deck-building mechanics and tactical depth. As a hobby-level game, it requires learning the many card types and their interactions.
How It Works
At its core is deck construction: you assemble your deck from various card types including runners, objectives, challenges, gear, locations, contacts, and specials. You use runners to make runs on objectives, matching symbols to overcome challenges. Money is a key resource for acquiring and maintaining cards in play. The strategic combination of card types and money management drives gameplay.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Mike Nielsen and set in the Shadowrun universe, this 1997 game won two Origins Awards for Best Graphic Presentation and Best Trading Card Game. Its cyberpunk-fantasy setting and blend of deck-building and resource management distinguish it from other CCGs.
Awards
- 1997 Origins Awards Best Graphic Presentation of a Card Game — Winner
- 1997 Origins Awards Best Trading Card Game — Winner
Pro
- Deep deck-building system with diverse card types
- Integration of fantasy and cyberpunk elements in the setting
- Winner of two 1997 Origins Awards
- Supports up to 8 players
Contra
- Complexity requires learning time
- No solo mode available
- 60-minute playtime may feel long for newcomers
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set 60 years in the future in a cyberpunk world where fantasy elements like magic, elves, orcs, and trolls merge with futuristic technology. This unique setting combines science fiction with traditional fantasy motifs.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Start with a balanced deck and learn card type synergies before trying more complex strategies.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Shadowrun: The Trading Card Game is designed for 2 to 8 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 60 minutes, depending on the number of players and experience.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is aimed at hobby players experienced in deck-building and tactical resource management.
How does this compare to similar games?
It combines a cyberpunk-fantasy setting with complex deck-building and resource management, setting it apart from other CCGs.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and age rating of 12+, it's better suited for experienced players than families with younger children.
What mechanic makes it special?
Deck construction with multiple card types and money as a key resource define the gameplay.
Fazit
Shadowrun: The Trading Card Game is recommended for experienced players seeking a deep deck-building experience in a cyberpunk fantasy setting. Beginners may find the complexity challenging initially.















