From:	Marc Renouf renouf@********.com
Subject:	SOTA
Date:	Tue, 13 Jul 1999 11:00:50 -0400 (EDT)

On Mon, 12 Jul 1999 Twist0059@***.com wrote:

> Yeah, but the real problem I've found with the SOTA rules is the Reaction
> Enhancements section, where you lose Reaction bonuses if you fail to pay the
> SOTA. Against other jazzed characters, I can understand it, kinda, but
> against civvies unchromed it would mean that natural human reflexes are
> increasing everytime SOTA increases and the player doesn't pay, which is
> insane.

Actually, it's not that people are getting faster, it's that your
wires are degrading. That's right, cyberware isn't a "you buy it, you
have it, and it works perfectly forever" kind of thing. It requires
routine maintenance, parts, and service. If this routine maintenance is
not kept up with, the system degrades, and not only doesn't keep up with
newer systems, but actually loses a little ground. Think of it as Stress
Points for your wired reflexes.
Unfortunately, as your gear gets older, it gets harder to find
part for it and people who are qualified to fix it. Ever tried to have an
Amiga or a Vic20 serviced at your local computer store? Ever tried to
find a new processor for one?
Yes, this is a little bit different take on the SOTA rules, but at
least it makes sense. Granted, the "new tech" isn't really all that much
better - more of a gradual advance (i.e. not enough to give a bonus in
game mechanics) than a revolutionary one (like the introduction of
move-by-wire).
As for the electronics, ECM, and ECCM SOTA rules, I agree with
them wholeheartedly. New advances in signal interception techniques,
cryptography, cryptoanalysis, and communications security will have a
profound effect on older equipment that isn't as up-to-date.
Anyway, just a thought.

Marc