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For many roleplayers "metaplot" is a dirty word. If you are one of these people, System Failure is unlikely to be for you. Essentially bridging the gap between Shadowrun Third Edition and Shadowrun Fourth Edition, System Failure dramatically alters the shadowrun universe, laying the foundations for many of the technological changes introduced in SR4.
Presentation and Layout
In regards to appearance, there is little that I can fault this book on. The cover art is sufficiently attention grabbing and much of the interior art is reasonably good - barring some particular pieces that I found to look a bit ugly.The general style of the book is as a series of documents with the usual runner commentaries added to provide alternate views of events. There is a general clarity over which sections are which, although some game notes are hard to spot in amongst the text.
Contents
System Failure focuses on a series of connected events linked to the machinations of an AI within the Matrix. Several secret plots spring into action, culminating in the catastrophic crash of the Matrix. The resulting anarchy is used by various factions as a cover for them to make their individual moves for power.The storyline is foretold with a number of prophecies hinting at the end of the Matrix. Strange glitches and problems start to plague the virtual reality of the network. In the interim, the Megacorp known as Novatech is pushed into going public. In a desperate bid to save the company before a competitor undermines it completely, the corporation opens an online opportunity for members of the public to buy shares.
This inadvertantly provides the opportunity for a hidden threat within the matrix to make its move - setting off a chaotic series of events that force several secret conspiracies and plotters to take action quickly. All of this leads up the the world of third edition shadowrun coming to a near apocalyptic finale, and the foundations of the fourth edition setting are laid down.
Rather than present this information as a series of scenarios linked together, System Failure follows the usual shadowrun method of presenting the key highlights and developments in a variety of stories, transcripts and rumours. At the end of each chapter are short game information sections that provide advice as to how to best utilise these resources when planning a game set during these events.
Thoughts
So how does it all work together. As I mentioned at the beginning of this review, it is somewhat hard to figure out how to measure and review this kind of a supplement. Plot-wise, System Failure has all the makings of a great techno-fantasy thriller. There are plenty of plots and events going on to keep any group involved for months. It's a suitably climactic finale to see out the third edition game line.However it is also a bit all over the place. There are several developments that really rely on the group and GM being familiar with material from the entire third edition range, and not enough information to help the unfamiliar catch up with everything that is going on.
I did feel that in some parts of the metaplot too much falls in the hands of non-statted NPCs. But despite all this, there is room for players to have a direct influence on how events play out. This is a great resource for ideas and hooks.
Overall I found the style a little too disjointed to read, hence the 3 for style. There is a lot of information, but sometimes it isn't clarified enough to be immediately useful unless one is familiar with the entire gameline - as I mentioned before.
On the other hand, if you are big fan of the third edition storyline, it is a great way for fanpro to take ownership of the game licence they have gained.
Conclusion
For a resource of ideas, hooks and materials to tease players with System Failure certainly makes the grade. A little more guidance or "catch-up" material would have helped, though.Storywise, it is a bit all over the place. But then it isn't about having a single plot, but rather seeding a number of storylines for GMs and Players to pursue as they wish.
Should I buy it? If you are a fan of the shadowrun metaplot or want some ideas of how to seriously shake up your shadowrun game, this is worth the purchase. Otherwise, save your cash for Shadowrun 4th Edition, where all this becomes history rather than metaplot.
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