The book itself:
Style-
This book comes in the form of a free PDF file available for download at www.bayn.org. The layout is simple but functional. There is no art (remember we're dealing with an unofficial and unlicensed adaptation here) except for the Wushu logo on the cover. Daniel's writing is clear and entertaining to read without the slightest bit of pretense.
Substance-
The real meat of this download is the Wushu system. The guide explains the basic mechanics of the system and gives several very good examples of play. Although the system is slightly modified to handle the setting there is enough information here for a creative GM to run Wushu games in any genre (Though I HIGHLY recommend picking up the Wushu Core book if you like the system. It's only $5.00). In addition to the system mechanics the author has included his (pre-"Reloaded") interpretation of how the world of the Matrix works. If you are already familiar with the Matrix movies this information can be mostly ignored. If you are not familiar with the movies the book will give you enough setting information to get started. Lastly, the book contains tips for running one-shots and includes a sample adventure (which is very solid).
The System:
The Wushu system was created to handle cinematic action games so the Matrix setting fits like a glove. The main idea of the system is to reward characters who perform cool action movie stunts by making it tactically beneficial to do so. I won't go into the specifics of the system here (that's what the PDF is for) but I can give a bit of first hand testimony as to how cool it is. I downloaded the file on a whim one night when I was looking for a quick one-shot game to fill a session. After I read the PDF I knew that I was hooked. Since then I have used Wushu for many different settings. The system can be EASILY adapated to just about any setting you can think of. The game lends it self well to one-shot play but can also be used for campaigns with no problem.
To be fair, Wushu isn't for everyone. It is extemely rules-lite and really requires players to be creative to constantly come up with descriptions and embellishments. With the right group however, the game is magic.
Summary: You really can't go wrong by downloading this PDF. If you like it, it will give you an instant night of gaming with the possibility of many more for free. If you don't like it... well, it's still free.
The Wushu Guide to the Matrix as well as Daniel Bayn's other games are available for download at www.bayn.org
