David Pulver has again produced an excellent sourcebook for
GURPS. This time he tackles biotechnology, a topic very much in the
news lately.
Pulver begins the book with a good introduction to the science behind
genetic engineering. This section of the book offers a good overview
and is well-researched. He even addresses ethical and legal issues
surrounding biotechnology. This is essential, since many real-world
discussions of biotech are made within this context.
The bulk of the book deals with human genetic engineering, described
in GURPS terms. These discussions run the gamut from cosmetic
alterations to creating new subspecies of humanity with
nanoviruses. Even if you are not a GURPS player (as I am not), these
chapters contain lots of food for thought. Anyone running a science
fiction campaign of any sort will find Pulver's musings on the genetic
"improvement" of man to be worth reading.
Later chapters detail engineering animals (including "uplift"),
genetic weapons, medical applications, and even biological vehicles,
equipment, and structures. There's also a good glossary for those who
aren't familiar with the technical jargon associated with genetic
engneering.
All in all, Pulver has produced another worthwhile GURPS supplement,
one that is of genuine use even to those of us who don't run GURPS. If
I have any major criticisms of the book, it is that it is that it is
only 144 pages. This book could have included lots more, especially
additional ideas about using biotechnology in a variety of different
campaign types. In addition, the organization of the book could have
been slightly improved by separating the game mechanics from the
discussions of the technologies in question. Of course, these are but
small "shortcomings" in what is an excellent supplement.
Keep up the good work, David.
Style: 3 (Average)
Substance: 4 (Meaty)
