Knowledge: Computer

Characters with a proficiency in Computer Science are able to perform a wide range of computer-oriented tasks from servicing a broken device, to programming new lines of code, to hacking into a system, to offering moral support to a depressed artificial intelligence. In the world of 2840, most of the computers are trinary (as opposed to modern day binary computers), so they use “fuzzy logic” in their programming (yes, no, maybe). These “thinking” machines can develop a sense of personality and autonomy over time so the ability to program them and make them perform certain tasks has taken on certain moral complications. In general, a 2840 trinary computer can be interfaced socially (rolling Manipulation + Computer Science) or “hard prompted” by issuing direct lines of code (rolling Intelligence + Computer Science). The social interface allows a character to communicate with a sentient computer verbally and use any of the computer’s pre-programmed functions but cannot be used for hacking or writing new applications. Hard prompting allows a character to (re)program a sentient computer with new applications as well as hack another user’s system so long as it is not protected by biometrics (that requires Wits + Security roll). Common information rolls using Computer Science include troubleshooting common computer problems, designing simple data structures, and opening and using an unfamiliar application. Computer Science study rolls involve hacking a secure system, writing and troubleshooting a new application, and monitoring users on a system.

Ability Levels:

0	Ignorant: For you, a computer is just another foreigner who does not speak your language.
1	High School: You can use all standard applications on your own system, and you’ve begun to experiment with writing simple scripts.
2	College: You have a good report with your own computer, and given time, you can write useful applications. You can hack a blatantly vulnerable system.
3	Masters: You routinely create new applications and scripts to accomplish numerous legal and illegal tasks. You are known in certain hacking circles.
4	Doctorate: Your applications have the potential to bring you significant income and notoriety. Companies call you to test their cyber protocols.
5	Scholar: You have begun to think more like a computer than a human. Your intuitive grasp of data processing is legendary in technical circles.

Possessed by:

Technologists, Computer Geeks, Hackers, Gangstas, Spacers, Professionals, Application Developers, Tech Support, Artificial Intelligence Creators.

Sample Specialties:
Hacking, Application Development, Artificial Intelligence Psychology, Hardware Repair, Networking.
Players may choose a specialty at level 4 and gain a second specialty at level 5.