Traces and Tags in Android Netrunner

Hey there! Today, I want to talk about something really cool in Android Netrunner – Traces and Tags! Now, I know these terms might sound a bit confusing at first, but don’t worry, I’m here to break it down for you.

Let’s start with traces. In Netrunner, a trace is like a digital breadcrumb trail that the Corp leaves behind when they try to find and hack the Runner. Traces are a way for the Corp to put the pressure on the Runner and make them spend resources to stay safe.

Now, let’s talk about tags. A tag is basically a digital mark that the Corp can put on the Runner. When a Runner has tags, the Corp gains some serious power over them. It’s like having a target on your back that the Corp can use to track your every move. Tags can be really dangerous, so it’s important for the Runner to do everything they can to avoid getting tagged.

But here’s the thing – tags and traces can also be an opportunity for the Runner. Instead of just avoiding them, the Runner can use them to their advantage. For example, they can use programs that give them special abilities when they have tags or use resources to avoid traces. It’s all about finding the right balance and using these tools strategically.

So, why are traces and tags so important in Netrunner? Well, they add an extra layer of strategy and tension to the game. As a Runner, you have to constantly consider the risks and rewards of taking on traces and tags. Do you try to avoid them at all costs, or do you embrace them and turn them into an advantage?

Overall, traces and tags are like the spice that adds flavor to the game. They give you more choices, more ways to outsmart your opponent, and more opportunities for exciting and unexpected moments. So, next time you play Netrunner, don’t forget to keep an eye out for those traces and tags – they might just be the key to victory!

When I play the game, the Corporation usually spends a lot of time trying to keep the Runner out. But did you know that traces and tags actually give the Corporation a chance to attack the Runner? It’s pretty interesting!

Let’s Talk About Traces

Traces happen when certain cards trigger them. You can tell if a trace is happening because the card will say “TraceX”, with X being the strength of the trace. Both the Corporation and the Runner have their own trace strength, which can be increased by spending credits.

During a trace, the Corporation goes first. They can openly spend as many credits as they want to increase their trace strength. Each credit spent adds one point to the trace strength. There’s no limit to how many credits the Corporation can use!

Once the Corporation has used up their credits, you, the Runner, have a chance to spend credits openly and boost your link strength. Your base link strength is determined by the number of links (~) you have in play. As you spend credits, your link strength increases by one point for each credit spent. You’re not limited to the number of credits you can use for the trace.

After you’ve finished boosting your link strength, it’s time to compare it to the Corporation’s trace strength. If the trace strength surpasses your link strength, the trace is successful, and any associated “If successful” effects are activated and resolved.

If your link strength is equal to or greater than the trace strength, the trace fails, and any associated “If unsuccessful” effects are triggered and resolved.

Tags

When certain card effects happen, a tag gets put on you. Having at least one tag means you’re considered tagged. While you’re tagged, the Corporation can spend a click and 2 credits to trash one of your resources. It’s also risky for you to stay tagged for too long.

If you’re tagged, you can remove the tag by spending a click and 2 credits. The tag goes back to the token bank. You can keep doing this as long as you have enough clicks and credits, and as long as you still have a tag to remove.