| | | | | | |

System Gateway (fan expansion for Android: Netrunner) (2021) Board Game

ByMichail

System Gateway is a fan-made expansion for the popular card game Android: Netrunner. Released in 2021 by Null Signal Games (NISEI), this expansion offers players new cards and mechanics to enhance their gameplay experience. Designed by Zoe Cohen, McGregor Crowley, June Valencia Cuervo, and Max Chippington Derrick, System Gateway adds a fresh twist to the original game.

Game Components of System Gateway

  • System Gateway Set:** Includes two ready-to-play teaching decks, a deckbuilding pack, player aids, and links to the learn-to-play guide. It contains 77 new cards, 2 reprints of Standard-legal cards, and 2 tutorial-only identity cards, totaling 205 playable cards plus player aids.
  • System Update 2021:** A companion set with over 80 classic Netrunner cards reprinted with updated rules and new illustrations.
  • Starter Pack:** Contains “The Syndicate” megacorp and “The Catalyst” runner decks, each with a smaller initial deck size for teaching games.
  • Deckbuilding Pack:** Additional cards to expand the decks, including 3 more runners and 4 megacorps.

    How To Setup System Gateway

    To set up **System Gateway**, begin by separating the cards into their respective factions. The **Starter Pack** includes pre-constructed decks for both the Runner and the Corp, each designed to introduce the game mechanics gradually. Players start with the teaching decks and can then expand these decks using the cards from the **Deckbuilding Pack**. The game also includes player aids to help track clicks, credits, and other game elements, making the play area less cluttered.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Asymmetric Gameplay:** One player takes the role of the Runner (hacker), while the other plays as the Corp (megacorporation).
  • Deck-Building:** Players construct decks using cards from their faction, each with unique abilities and strengths.
  • Card Play:** Players take turns performing actions like drawing cards, playing cards, and making runs on the Corp’s servers.
  • Game Objective:** The Corp aims to protect their assets and advance agendas to score points. The Runner aims to steal these agendas or disrupt the Corp’s operations. The first player to score 7 points wins, or the Corp wins if the Runner is flatlined (runs out of cards).

    Player Experience

    **System Gateway** is designed to be the best new player experience for **Android: Netrunner**. The set is straightforward yet powerful, making it easier for new players to jump into the game. The community is very supportive, with resources like the Green Level Clearance Discord and Metropole Grid’s videos and streams. The game’s complexity is balanced, allowing new players to learn gradually while still offering depth for competitive players.

    Pros

  • Easy Entry Point:** Designed specifically for new players, making it easier to learn and start playing.
  • Compatible with FFG Cards:** NISEI cards are perfectly compatible with existing FFG cards, allowing seamless integration into existing collections.
  • Strong Community Support:** Active community with many resources and a friendly, welcoming environment.
  • Print-on-Demand Availability:** Cards can be purchased through print-on-demand services, reducing the barrier to entry.

    Cons

  • High Vocabulary Barrier:** The game requires learning specific terminology, which can be daunting for new players.
  • Complexity:** While streamlined, the game still has a lot of depth, which can be challenging to navigate for beginners.

    Personal Thoughts on System Gateway

    **System Gateway** is ideal for both new players and those returning to **Android: Netrunner**. It offers a streamlined introduction to the game, making it easier to learn and enjoy. The set’s compatibility with existing cards and the strong community support ensure that players can dive deep into the game without significant barriers. If you ever wanted to play **Android: Netrunner**, now is the best time to get started.

    We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more. 

    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *