Starting equipment for TL9-12

[mavikfelna]

Cyber stuff doesn't bother me; it makes sense people would have it, but also that it would have downsides. Wafer jacks are great. I think they actually have a lot of use that most players don't leverage - expert programs, sure, but you could also have all kinds of databases and library data inside your head, and it is good if it isn't obvious. Like in bargaining, or in a diplomatic meeting.

Yep. I always have a Translate/0 program going for the local languages. It doesn't help lots but it does help. And the local Library Data from the starport as well.

 

[MonsterX]

Yep. I always have a Translate/0 program going for the local languages. It doesn't help lots but it does help. And the local Library Data from the starport as well.

That's perfect. That would have been useful when I had a player eavesdropping on a conversation in a foreign language, and she wanted to run the translator program on her communicator - the problem being, that it would start speaking the translated words out as she tried hide where she could hear through the dumbwaiter shaft. (In the end, she had to just record it and have it translated later.)

 

[rinku]

Mmm. The point is taken, but the idea of casually wiring up your brain just to avoid using your phone or smartwatch seems a bit extreme.

First thing I'd ask would be "could this be done with a hidden earpiece and mic"?

You can have clothing that's a discreet computer, eyewear that's a discreet display. Programmed keywords to discretely perform functions, or a smart interface that can interpret your needs. My last character mustered out with a double Armour benefit and got a very nice TL12 Vacc Suit with a built in computer (which I further improved with cash).

All of the above is detectable; I doubt any meeting where you would not be allowed to use a hand computer would overlook scanning you for bionics.

Having said that, obviously there will be some situations where it matters. And for some people it's what they want, so full strength to them.

 

[MasterGwydion]

Mmm. The point is taken, but the idea of casually wiring up your brain just to avoid using your phone or smartwatch seems a bit extreme.

Remember, that is more of a cultural thing or your personal opinion. Technophiles and Transhumanists would disagree with you. I know a bunch of people who wish they could use their phones or computers while only using their brains due to a perfectly safe and almost totally controllable implant.

 

[rinku]

Oh yeah, I am very much framing this as my viewpoint. A player wants to jack in, here's the rules, go for it.

The main drawbacks I see are when it comes to medical treatment (per the rules), or if someone objects to them in a situation and the character has to leave, or have part of their brain disabled.