And now for some more questions:
1) Regarding the Matrix, AR, Hacking, networks etc from what i've read it seems to be the, if not one of the, most complex ideas for the game. So i'm still trying to wrap my head around most of it. But my question is, when purchasing commlinks, software must be purchased with it correct? and you are able to mix and match between any?
2) In regards again to the Matrix, AR, VR etc. What would be some "easy" beginner tasks to help ease the group into the wireless world? hacking a lock? Disabling drones? Also in your experience, has Matrix combat been more complex than real world combat or vice versa?
Yeah, for a commlink, you buy the hardware (which determines the Signal and Response ratings) and the Operating System (which determines the System and the Firewall ratings). Keep in mind that the System rating can never exceed the base Response (temporary reductions to Response won't affect System though).
Then you buy the Programs, which cannot exceed System in rating without going into program modifications (found in the
Unwired sourcebook). A character who isn't a matrix specialist may still want things like Encrypt, Analyze, Browse, and Command in order to encrypt conversations, keep watch for hacking attempts on their commlinks, do matrix searches, and remotely control vehicles, respectively.
An "easy" task for hacking is usually Spoofing. Spoofing enemy guns in combat may not be the most effective use of time, but it's pretty straightforward. Doing other things like opening matrix-connected locks, getting free food, and other low level "80's hacker" things are all Spoof.
AceFace made a very clear and simple introduction to how hacking works in this thread:
http://forums.shadowrun4.com/index.php?topic=8388.0Another example of a good matrix activity that isn't mentioned in that guide is rigging and remotely controlling drones. Give your hacker a small stealth drone (The "Cyberspace Designs Dragonfly" from
Arsenal, page 117 is a good one. It's cheap and effective but can't do much else beyond spy on stuff) for them to remotely control and set up a sort of "obstacle course" for it-- Avoiding a few guards, finding a way around closed doors and such. Make sure this is happening while the player characters are using their meatbodies to do something else so they are introduced to using drones for live reconnaissance.