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PUPPETEER
Target: Device • Duration: I • FV: L + 4
You push Resonance commands into a target, forcing it to perform a Matrix action. Pick a target and a Matrix action for it to perform. Make a Software + Resonance [Level] v. Willpower + Firewall test with a threshold based on the type of action: 1 for a Free Action, 2 for Simple, and 3 for Complex. If you succeed, the target performs that Matrix action as its next available action.
Is this an opposed test or a simple threshold test. Or is it both?
I've received a couple of responses in other threads that suggest it is both. In other words, roll the opposed test, then match your net hits to the threshold.
But page 47 states: "Note that Opposed tests do not list a threshold. That's because in an Opposed test, you are trying to generate more hits than an opponent."
Personally, I think the opposed test is a copy/paste error. Why? Fading Value.
If it is an opposed test, I would have to set the Level to take account the number of hits my target can generate, then add in up to three more for the type of action. That means a Level of at least 6 (a bare minimum of 3 hits to cover the opposed test + 3 for a complex action). More likely 7 or 8 for a bit of insurance. With an FV of Level + 4, that means 10 to 12 fading to resist, virtually guaranteeing most of your technomancer's stun gone, crippling him for the rest of the run, since there is no way to heal fading damage except with time.
If it were a simple Software + Resonance [Level] test vs. the threshold, then it makes it a relatively easy test for most TM's to pass, but they still have to resist 7 fading for a complex action. Assuming most TMs will have around 11 dice (Resonance 6 + Willpower 5) to resist, that will leave you with an average of 3 stun. A fair hit, but you can still keep going.
I think they meant it to be just a simple test with heavy FV. What do you think?
P.S. I've seen the threads about how abusive puppeteer can be, but it is limited by the heavy fading value. Your TM would have to be very good and/or lucky to use it more than two or three times on a run.