The fusion of technology and human flesh began in the late 20th century. The connection of the human mind with computers was the first step. It was quickly followed by implants that "boost" reactions and cylindrical replacements. Then came the Awakening. A five-hundred-year pause in the flow of mystical actions ended, and Magic returned to the world. Elves, Dwarves, and Trolls were released from their human forms.

In the world of 2050, the megacities are monsters casting long shadows. As shadowrunners, this is your home, in the cracks between giant corporate structures. When the megacorps want something done but don’t want to get their hands dirty, they need a Shadowrun and come to you. Although your existence is not recognized by any government or corporate database, the demand for your services is high.

• You might be a Technomancer, slipping like a whisper through the databases of giant corporations, stealing the only thing that has real value—information.
• You could be a Street Samurai, a hired killer, whose combat skills and reactions make you the ultimate urban predator.
• Or perhaps you are a Mage, someone with an ancient gift, the ability to manipulate and shape the magical energies that now surround the Earth.

This is exactly the firepower you will need if hired to undertake a Shadowrun...