For the best Netrunner V cyberware build, prioritize the Arasaka HAK-5 Cyberdeck for its superior RAM and quickhack slots, alongside the Biosystem Monitor for crucial slow-motion benefits during combat. Complement these with RAM-recovery implants and the Ex-Disk for quickhack upload speed.
Core Cyberware for Netrunners
A Netrunner’s cyberware loadout is designed to enhance hacking capabilities, ensure RAM recovery, and provide a degree of survivability when initiating hacks from a distance. Direct combat is not the Netrunner’s strength, so cyberware choices should reflect a playstyle focused on stealth and remote neutralization. The goal is to maximize the speed and efficiency of quickhack deployment while maintaining enough resilience to avoid being taken down unexpectedly.
Key cyberware for a Netrunner V focuses on three main areas: the Operating System, which dictates your core hacking potential; implants that boost quickhack performance and RAM; and defensive options to safeguard V while hacking. As of Patch 2.3, the optimal choices emphasize quickhack capacity, upload speed, and RAM management.
Operating System Choices
The Cyberdeck is the most critical piece of cyberware for any Netrunner, directly influencing RAM capacity, the number of quickhack slots available, and upload speed. Upgrading your Cyberdeck provides the most significant power increase for this build. While several options exist throughout V’s progression, two stand out for endgame Netrunners.
| Cyberdeck | RAM Slots | Quickhack Slots | Best For | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tetratronic “Rippler” | 4 | 4 | Best overall — max RAM + slots | Levels 25+ |
| Arasaka “HAK-5” | 4 | 5 | Best quickhack capacity — 5 hack slots | Levels 30+ |
The Arasaka HAK-5 Cyberdeck is considered the ultimate choice for a Netrunner. Its 4 RAM slots combined with 5 quickhack slots allow for unparalleled versatility, enabling V to queue multiple quickhacks simultaneously, such as Contagion, Memory Wipe, Ping, Weapon Glitch, and Short Circuit. This capacity transforms the Netrunner from an effective hacker into a force that can clear entire rooms without direct engagement. The Tetratronic “Rippler” is a strong alternative, also offering 4 RAM slots, making it a powerful option as V approaches the endgame.
Cyberware for RAM and Speed
Beyond the Cyberdeck, several other cyberware pieces are essential for optimizing a Netrunner’s performance. These implants primarily focus on RAM recovery, enhancing quickhack upload speed, and providing crucial utility or defensive benefits.
| Slot | Recommended Cyberware | Effect | Priority |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Arasaka HAK-5 Cyberdeck | 4 RAM + 5 quickhack slots — maximum hacking capacity | ⭐⭐ Mandatory |
| Arms | Projectile Launch System | Emergency ranged option when hacks are on cooldown | Medium |
| Skeleton | Ex-Disk | Quickhack upload speed bonus — faster hack execution | High |
| Nervous System | Biosystem Monitor | Slow-motion while hacking | ⭐ Mandatory |
| Ocular System | Kiroshi Optics | Base optics, often comes with RAM-recovery or quickhack bonuses | High |
| Circulatory System | RAM-recovery implants | Increases RAM regeneration rate | High |
The Ex-Disk, found in the Skeleton slot, is vital for accelerating quickhack execution, allowing V to deploy hacks more rapidly. For survivability and tactical advantage, the Biosystem Monitor in the Nervous System slot is a mandatory pick. This implant provides a slow-motion effect while hacking, giving V precious time to assess threats and deploy quickhacks effectively, especially when staying undetected is compromised. Kiroshi Optics, while a base optic, can often be found with beneficial RAM-recovery or quickhack-related bonuses, making them a solid choice. Additionally, any RAM-recovery implants for the Circulatory System are highly recommended to sustain V’s hacking efforts, as RAM is the lifeblood of this build. The Projectile Launch System in the Arms slot serves as a decent emergency ranged option if hacks are on cooldown or if V is forced into direct confrontation, though it should not be the primary focus.
FAQ
What is the most important attribute for a Netrunner V? Intelligence is the most important attribute for a Netrunner V, as it directly increases RAM capacity, unlocks higher quickhack tiers, and scales quickhack damage.
Which quickhacks are essential for a Netrunner build? Mandatory quickhacks include Contagion (for AoE damage), Short Circuit (for turrets and robotics), Memory Wipe (for stealth takedowns), Ping (to see enemies through walls), and Suicide (for ultimate single-target elimination).
Does the Netrunner build feel strong early in the game? No, the Netrunner build can feel weak in the early game (levels 1-20) due to limited RAM and modest quickhack damage. It becomes significantly more powerful by level 30+ with a high-tier Cyberdeck and advanced quickhacks.
What is the optimal playstyle for a Netrunner? The optimal playstyle involves staying at range, using Ping to locate enemies, and deploying quickhacks like Contagion to neutralize groups without entering direct combat. Stealth is crucial, and direct engagement should be avoided.