Building the Blackhat
So you want to play a Blackhat. Let's go through some recommendations. Of course, make sure you familiarise yourself with the Hacking System! It might look complex, but it's (probably) no more complicated than a spellcaster in D&D. You can think of your Cyberdeck as your spellbook, and the Hacking Programs as spells - and there are only 12 of them (and you might not have all of them anyway).
ATTRIBUTES:
It's generally useful to take IQ (as it's the skill your hacking skills use). HT is also important for defending yourself against Damage programs, though some Blackhat Perks also offer some form of reduction in harmful effects.
RECOMMENDED SKILLS:
The following skills are pretty much essential for a Blackhat:
- Computer Operation (IQ/E)
- Expert (Computer Security) (IQ/H)
- Computer Hacking (IQ/VH)
- Computer Programming (IQ/H)
The following skills are also of use:
- You may also want to take Cryptography for Code-Cracking when using the Listen program.
- Electronics Operation is also useful when using Control (I believe?)
It's also worth considering the Born to be Wired talent (PUiii8), which will boost the relevant skills above.
It's also worth considering taking Quick Gadgeteer with the H4XX0R limitation [25], which allows you to take Blackhat Perks.
CYBERNETICS:
You should probably have a Cable Jack Plus or a CableJack Wireless, which allows you to jack into devices and control them - a Basic Cable Jack won't be sufficient, and if you end up going against a rival Blackhat and you're lacking, expect heavy penalties.
EQUIPMENT:
You will need a Cyberdeck, and you will also need to buy the programs for it. If you're looking for something cheap, go with the HackMate.
If you want to be able to hack things with your mind, you should take a HackMind. However, this is not needed to be a Blackhat - you can also carry around a computer with you (and a VR headset).
WORD OF CAUTION
Remember - it's very easy to accidentally go "all-in" and just focus on hacking. There is value to being a bit more well-rounded - you will probably need skills to break into places to get physical access, to defend yourself if discovered mid-hack, to stealth around, and more. For example, a Blackhat who starts with:
- IQ13 [60];
- Born to be Wired/4 [24]; and
- 15 in the four recommended skills above [72]
- Cable Jack Plus [9]
- HackMind [7]
- Quick Gadgeteer (H4XX0R, -50%) [25]
- 4 Blackhat Perks [4]
has already spent 201 points before even touching any other useful things!