Review of High Tech and Low Life: the art of Shadowrun

High Tech and Low Life is probably the most eclectic art book related to rpgs on the market. A large number of artists have their works presented in this book. Also, the styles of artwork is greatly varied from digital art to drawings and paintings. The subject matter is as vast as the Shadowrun universe.

This book contains art from such noted rpg artists as Brom, Larry Elmore, John Zeleznik and many others. I think that including many different artists in a book is important as the viewer of the works is exposed to a great number of different styles of art. The fact that this book contains so many artists' works is a refreshing change from many other books which include only the works of one particular artist or are focused in a narrow worldscape (i.e. Dragonlance).

High Tech and Low Life contains 32 black and white images and 45 color plates. As mentioned before, drawings to digital renderings are included. This too is a change from books which only contain drawings or paintings. The artists show their individual styles well in the book. For example, not all drawings are in the same style, Timothy Bradstreet used Duoshade paper in his drawing in black and white gallery to give the distinctive look which has made him famous.

The aspect of this book that makes it truly great is the variety of subject matter. Dragons and streetpunks to native americans to trolls to native american trolls are all given space in the book. My favorite picture is called "Threats" and portrays a dragon in dire straits. I have never seen a book that covers more subjects in the techomagic genre than this one!

High Tech and Low Life's only disadvantage is that it's not a huge book. My only wish would be for more of a good thing.

The reason I reviewed this book is because I find it to be especially inspirational. Many times while GMing a game I have found a need to describe characters and monsters that are unique. This book provides many interesting characters and creatures that are sure to inspire not only players and GMs of Shadowrun but many other fantasy and futuristic games as well.

THE BOTTOM LINE Take a look at this book. You may find just the inspiration you need for your next game session!

Style: 5 (Excellent!)
Substance: 3 (Average)