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tower:worlds:granitecity2155:equipment:ais

Off-the-Shelf Allies

The following are some infomorphs which can be acquired off the shelf, complete with appropriate cybershells. They can make useful Allies for PCs, although some players may prefer more “experienced” or personalized systems.

All of the skills listed below can be assumed to be at TL10. However, it may sometimes be possible to acquire infomorphs trained and optimized for use in low-tech environments.

Charlesfoster-M - 157 points/$57,200

ST 0 [0]; DX 10 [0]; IQ 10 [0]; HT 12 [0].

Damage 0; BL 0; HP 1 [0]; Will 10 [0]; Per 10 [0]; FP n/a.

Basic Speed 5.5 [0]; Basic Move 0 [0]; Dodge n/a.

Advantages: LAI-7 [102]; Modular Abilities (Computer Brain) 3 (2, 2, 2) (Limited Integration, -20%; Skills and Languages Only, -10%) [30].

Disadvantages: Wearable Virtual Interface (DVI, small genius computer) [-42].

Skills: Accounting (A) IQ+4 [16]-14; Administration (A) IQ+3 [12]-13; Computer Operation (E) IQ+3 [0]-13*; Expert Skill (Memetics) (H) IQ+1 [8]-11; Law (Commercial, for a region of the buyer’s choice) (H) IQ+1 [8]-11; Merchant (A) IQ [12]-10†; Research (A) IQ+1 [4]-11; Savoir-Faire (E) IQ-3 [1]-7†; Survival (Desert) (A) IQ-1 [1]-9; Survival (Jungle) (A) IQ-1 [1]-9; Tactics (H) IQ [4]-10.

* Included in LAI template.

† Includes -3 for Low Empathy.

The Charlesfoster series of deluxe personal AIs is popular among buyers who’ve acquired wealth through inheritance, luck, or specific talent, without also acquiring the skills required to keep it. This release (also known as the CF-3.1) is considered the most bug-free. In addition to business skills, it’s supposed to be capable of helping its wearer out of physical danger, aiding with information searches, and monitoring for memetic manipulations. But it’s mostly designed to perform accounting and routine financial activities. Major investment advice, portfolio management, etc., are better handled by human or static AI consultants.

Variations: A surprising number of purchasers run “Charlesfoster” AIs on Virtual Interface Implants with small compact genius computers (99 points, $98,700). Stories of aging plutocrats installing similar programs on puppet implants in feckless offspring are probably just urban legends.

Cortez-Ghao “Faraday” - 84 points/$8,900

ST 0 [0]; DX 10 [0]; IQ 9 [0]; HT 12 [0].

Damage 0; BL 0; HP 1 [0]; Will 10 [0]; Per 10 [0]; FP n/a.

Basic Speed 5.5 [0]; Basic Move 0 [0]; Dodge n/a.

Advantages: LAI-6 [82]; Modular Abilities (Computer Brain) 3 (2, 2, 2) (Limited Integration, -20%; Skills and Languages Only, -10%) [30].

Disadvantages: Wearable Virtual Interface (DVI, small computer) [-42].

Skills: Computer Operation (E) IQ+3 [0]-12*; Driving (Automobile) (A) DX-1 [1]-9; Electronics Operation (Communications) (A) IQ [2]-9; Electronics Operation (Sensors) (A) IQ [2]-9; Mathematics (Applied) (H) IQ [4]-9; Piloting (Vertol) (A) DX-1 [1]-9; Research (A) IQ+1 [4]-10.

* Included in LAI template.

This wearable AI is designed for technicians. It doesn’t attempt to match the specialist depth that a competent human will possess; rather, it provides mathematical analysis and handle communications, data searches, or routine vehicle interfaces while its wearer gets on with an immediate task. Lacking hands, it can’t use Mechanic skill sets “directly,” but it may have a few knowledge databases installed to support its research functions.

Variations: NAI-based “techie” wearable systems are quite popular, as they don’t always need much flexibility, but most serious users prefer a research aid with decent initiative and a grasp of colloquialisms. The same sort of program can of course be run in an implant, but putting a library of technical manuals inside one’s own skull is generally considered to be the mark of a hopeless nerd.

EDI “Bhisti” - 138 points/$11,300

ST 0 [0]; DX 10 [0]; IQ 9 [0]; HT 12 [0].

Damage 0; BL 0; HP 3 [0]; Will 10 [0]; Per 10 [0]; FP n/a.

Basic Speed 5.5 [0]; Basic Move 0 [0]; Dodge n/a. Advantages: LAI-6 [82]; Modular Abilities (Computer Brain) 3 (2, 2, 2) (Limited Integration, -20%; Skills and Languages Only, -10%) [30].

Disadvantages: Ruggedized Portable (small computer) [-2]. Skills: Computer Operation (E) IQ+3 [0]-12*; Diagnosis (Owner) (A) IQ+3 [12]-12; Electronics Operation (Communications) (A) IQ+2 [8]-11; Electronics Operation (Sensors) (A) IQ+1 [4]-10; Savoir-Faire (Military) (E) IQ-2 [2]-7†; Soldier (A) IQ [2]-9.

* Included in LAI template.

† Includes -3 for Low Empathy.

Executive Decisions (p. TS94) issues this AI model to many of its human combat troops. A Bhisti can supervise routine communications and sensor ops (including handling “sentry duty” while the user is asleep), signal for aid if the wearer is wounded, and run skill sets. (Area Knowledge, Survival, and languages are often installed for specific missions.) EDI retains override reprogramming codes for these AIs, but command them to obey their assigned users. Employees are expected to develop a relationship with their AIs, so that they work together smoothly; many transfer the same program between different wearable computers according to the current mission. (Buy other cybershells, such as full helmet systems, p. 58, as “vessels,” as discussed on p. 39, if necessary.) EDI usually reclaims the system if the soldier leaves the company, although it must then be reacclimatized for the next user.

GenTech BR-Secretarial - 36 points/$14,000

ST 0 [0]; DX 10 [0]; IQ 9 [0]; HT 14 [0].

Damage 0; BL 0; HP 1 [0]; Will 10 [0]; Per 10 [0]; FP n/a.

Basic Speed 6 [0]; Basic Move 0 [0]; Dodge n/a.

Advantages: LAI-6 [82]; Languages (any three, at Broken level) [6]; Modular Abilities (Computer Brain) 3 (2, 2, 2) (Limited Integration, -20%; Skills and Languages Only, -10%) [30].

Disadvantages: Virtual Interface Implant (small compact computer) [-100].

Skills: Administration (A) IQ [2]-9; Area Knowledge (User’s home area) (E) IQ+1 [2]-10; Computer Operation (E) IQ+3 [0]-12*; Diagnosis (User) (A) IQ+3 [12]-12; Electronics Operation (Communications) (A) IQ [2]-9; Savoir-Faire (Servant) (E) IQ-1 [4]-8†; Teaching (A) IQ [2]-9.

* Included in LAI template.

† Includes -3 for Low Empathy.

GenTech developed this implant AI personality for their bioroid division, and then discovered that they could make a comfortable profit licensing it out to others. It is not generally the first AI installed in a newly “decanted” bioroid; that will usually be a highly specialized “trainer,” optimized for the particular bioroid model. Rather, the “Secretarial” can aid a trained, competent, but narrowly focused bioroid in performing complex duties. It monitors the bioroid’s health, tracks appointments and work schedules, advises on minor social niceties, and occasionally plays the stern older brother. Some bioroids become fond of their “Sec,” or totally dependent on it; others regard it as a badge of servitude, and have it replaced the day they achieve independence. An indentured or legally immature bioroid will have an AI whose programmed loyalty is to his legal guardians; the codes for this must be handed over if the bioroid achieves independence. If a bioroid has a functioning puppet implant (and most do while in training), their indenture is easy to enforce. However, even many indentured bioroids have their puppet systems disabled as they mature, as owners either use this as a symbol of trust and “graduation,” or regard the things as a glaring security hole. Only the most unconfident bioroids keep puppet systems on achieving independence.

Rosario-Klein P55-J - 263 points/$16,000

ST 8 [0]; DX 10 [0]; IQ 9 [0]; HT 11 [0].

Damage 1d-3/1d-2; BL 13; HP 6 [0]; Will 9 [0]; Per 9 [0]; FP n/a.

Basic Speed 5.25 [0]; Basic Move 7 [0]; Dodge 8; Parry 8 (Wrestling).

Advantages: LAI-6 [82]; Modular Abilities (Computer Brain) 3 (2, 2, 2) (Limited Integration, -20%; Skills and Languages Only, -10%) [30]; Securibot (small computer) [141].

Skills: Beam Weapons (Rifle) or Guns (Gyroc) or Guns (SMG), all (E) DX+2 [4]-12; Computer Operation (E) IQ+3 [0]-12*; Law (Police, for purchaser’s home area) (H) IQ-2 [1]-7; Observation (A) Per-1 [1]-8; Tactics (H) IQ-1 [2]-8; Wrestling (A) DX [2]-10.

* Included in LAI template.

Notes: An implementation of the low-cost “security cybershell” concept, the P55-J may be found as partner to a human or bioroid Fourth Wave cop, assisting with security work in locations where a little real trouble seems possible, or even providing backup to door staff at nightclubs whose management want to project a tough image. While aggressive police forces may install a mini-missile pod on its weapons mount, private buyers tend to favor electrolasers, although mini-missiles with tangler warheads are also viable. (The cybershell may then also carry a can of anti-tangler aerosol.) A police armgun makes an acceptable compromise for some, though this requires that the AI receives additional training to use both weapon options to full effect. Space-based owners may opt for a laser rifle.

Newshawk/7-6 - 98 points/$2,320

ST 3 [0]; DX 10 [0]; IQ 9 [0]; HT 11 [0].

Damage 1d-5/1d-4; BL 1.8; HP 3 [0]; Will 9 [0]; Per 9 [0]; FP n/a.

Basic Speed 5.25 [0]; Basic Move 5 [0]; Dodge 8.

Advantages: Modular Abilities (Computer Brain) 3 (2, 2, 2) (Limited Integration, -20%; Skills and Languages Only, -10%) [30]; NAI-5 [49]; Newshawk (tiny computer) [13].

Skills: Computer Operation (E) IQ+3 [0]-12*; Photography (A) IQ+1 [4]-10; Writing (A) IQ [2]-9.

* Included in NAI template.

The Newshawk/7-6 is an example of the flying cameras widely used by reporters on Earth and Mars and in some larger space colonies. The AI has been trained to select camera angles, compose images, transcribe speech, and even prepare simple captions and other text. Favorite skill sets include languages and Area Knowledge for regions to which the owner has been assigned. Tactics programs or training are sometimes added by reporters who have to venture into war zones, for use in assessing immediate risks.

Janssen-Nord “Parker” - 23 points/$22,700

ST 0 [0]; DX 10 [0]; IQ 10 [0]; HT 12 [0].

Damage 0; BL 0; HP 8 [0]; Will 10 [0]; Per 10 [0]; FP n/a.

Basic Speed 5.5 [0]; Basic Move 0 [0]; Dodge n/a.

Advantages: LAI-7 [102]; Modular Abilities (Computer Brain) 3 (2, 2, 2) (Limited Integration, -20%; Skills and Languages Only, -10%) [30].

Disadvantages: Microframe [-136].

Skills: Computer Operation (E) IQ+3 [0]-13*; Electronics Operation (Communications) (A) IQ+1 [4]-11; Electronics Operation (Sensors) (A) IQ [2]-10; Law (International Travel) (H) IQ-2 [1]-8; Navigation (Air) (A) IQ+1 [4]-11; Piloting (one specialty of purchaser’s choice) (A) DX+3 [12]-13; Savoir-Faire (Servant) (E) IQ-1 [4]-9†.

* Included in LAI template.

† Includes -3 for Low Empathy

A fairly typical “pilot” AI as often installed in medium-sized aircraft, the “Parker” is well regarded among wealthy private buyers for its technical competence and refined personality. Very similar systems are often found in other vehicles, such as private yachts (for which, replace Piloting with Seamanship, and change Navigation (Air) to Navigation (Sea)).

Tenzan THI-200bis - 341 points/$64,500

ST 8 [0]; DX 10 [0]; IQ 9 [0]; HT 11 [0].

Damage 1d-3/1d-2; BL 13; HP 6 [0]; Will 9 [0]; Per 9 [0]; FP n/a.

Basic Speed 5.25 [0]; Basic Move 5 [0]; Dodge 8.

Advantages: LAI-6 [82]; Modular Abilities (Computer Brain) 3 (2, 2, 2) (Limited Integration, -20%; Skills and Languages Only, -10%) [30]; Tech-Spider (small computer) [204].

Skills: Computer Operation (E) IQ+3 [0]-12*; Electronics Operation (Communications) (A) IQ-1 [1]-8; First Aid (E) IQ+2 [4]-11; Free Fall (A) DX+1 [4]-11; Mechanic (specialty of buyer’s choice) (A) IQ+2 [8]-11; Mechanic (second specialty of buyer’s choice) (A) IQ+2 [8]-11.

* Included in LAI template.

This is Tenzan’s Suchi-Rukara (p. TS125) with basic skills trained into a LAI brain. It makes a dull partner; spacers exchange tips on how to teach it to display a bit more personality without too much risk of bizarre emergent behaviors.

Variations: Installing essentially the same AI in a Mobile Helmet produces the Tenzan Gearhead-Ro, a less useful engineering assistant but a life-saver in emergencies. ST 4, HT 12, HP 6, Basic Speed 5.5; add Cooking (A) IQ+1 [4]-10; 330 points, $71,900.

Wotatech Hugin - 93 points/$3,200

ST 3 [0]; DX 10 [0]; IQ 9 [0]; HT 11 [0].

Damage 1d-5/1d-4; BL 1.8; HP 3 [0]; Will 9 [0]; Per 9 [0]; FP n/a.

Basic Speed 5.25 [0]; Basic Move 5 [0]; Dodge 8.

Advantages: Modular Abilities (Computer Brain) 3 (2, 2, 2) (Limited Integration, -20%; Skills and Languages Only, -10%) [30]; NAI-5 [49]; Wotatech Combat Buzzbot (tiny computer) [2].

Skills: Computer Operation (E) IQ+3 [0]-12*; Forward Observer (A) IQ [2]-9; Guns (Gyroc) (E) DX+2 [4]-12; SavoirFaire (Military) (E) IQ-3 [1]-6†; Soldier (A) IQ-1 [1]-8; Stealth (A) DX+1 [4]-11.

* Included in NAI template.

† Includes -3 for Low Empathy.

Wotatech buzzbots are intended for scouting, perimeter patrols, and emergency fire support. They die quickly in real war zones, but some units find them useful for reconnaissance. The model is typically fitted with a micro-missile pod with IFF interrogator (p. TS156-7), included in the above cost. The pre-trained AI is primarily oriented towards purely military missions; law enforcement and peacekeeping forces may prefer something custom-coded to less aggressive specifications. (Military Hugins on duty in peaceful areas often have to deal with a lot of complex and conditional orders, though some forces just load them up with tangler rounds.) Buzzbots used on guard or patrol duties can quickly gain local Area Knowledge.

Note that this cybershell gains the Noisy disadvantage when in flight, with the associated penalty to Stealth.

tower/worlds/granitecity2155/equipment/ais.txt · Last modified: 2024/08/18 18:45 by wizardofaus_doku

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