A Brief History of Netrunner
I was, unfortunately, not into tabletop gaming when Netrunner was in its stride in the late ’90s (or during the reboot years). For those unfamiliar, Netrunner was a collectible card game (CCG) designed by Magic: The Gathering’s Richard Garfield. Set in a cyberpunk-themed world, this 2-player game pits a “runner” against a mega-corporation in a high-stakes hack. It was a highly asymmetrical system that revolved around attack and defense mechanics. There was even a web-based RPG spinoff called Webrunner: The Hidden Agenda that tied into a product release—at one point, it even made the front page of the New York Times Technology section.
In 2012, Fantasy Flight Games released a refreshed version titled Android: Netrunner, licensing the name from Wizards of the Coast. Over its lifespan, Android: Netrunner saw the release of booster packs, starter decks, and prefixed expansion boxes, including monthly “Data Packs.” It built on the original concept, introducing new factions and runner types. Each deck featured an “identity” card acting as a leader, which enabled deep customization and deckbuilding. Official support for the game ended in 2018.
In 2019, Null Signal Games picked up where Android: Netrunner left off. Originally named NISEI, this next-generation revival reprinted older sets and created new ones that remained compatible with Android: Netrunner. They also run organized play events both in-person and online. A large community still supports the game through online platforms like Jinteki and Chiriboga.
PAXU Discovery
Fast forward a few years, and my gaming group caught the Netrunner bug. We started group orders for decks through the game’s subreddit and rotated duels during game nights. But, as with most systems, interest fizzled, and we moved on to other games. At PAX Unplugged in 2024, while wandering the hall with my buddy Jeff, we decided to check out Earthborne Games. We had just started playing Earthborne Rangers and were curious to see what was new. To our surprise, they mentioned a new card game rooted in Netrunner’s DNA. We jumped at the opportunity and hustled over to the demo table.
Enter Hubworld: Aidalon. It’s like revisiting an old friend—just one who’s changed wardrobe styles since you last saw them. Designed by Cory DeVore (Runewars Miniatures, Star Wars: Legion) and veteran Michael Boggs (Android: Netrunner, Marvel Champions), we were introduced to what could be the future of the Netrunner legacy. Set in the titular hubworld of Aidalon, this 2–4 player, non-collectible card game pits Seekers against the Collective. The Collective is a next-gen mega-corporation that’s rendered space travel obsolete, putting various trade organizations out of work. In this spy-vs-spy setting, players infiltrate districts, and the first to capture three enemy agents wins.
In a Nutshell
For reference, I’m writing about the available preview decks, which offer a solid overview of the system. These decks feature four different Seeker classes and one full deck that includes class cards from all four. Each player manages three “lanes” representing districts, which the opponent can breach (in classic Netrunner fashion) to hunt down agents. Cards are placed face-down in these lanes and can be “forged” into obstacles that cost resources for the opponent to bypass or destroy. If a player completes a breach—i.e., bypasses all cards in a column—they can steal from the opponent’s hand, exile pile, or deck.
Much like Android: Netrunner, the early game is slow-paced. Players build up districts to strengthen defenses or bait the opponent toward specific lanes. Hidden information is central to the experience—face-down cards could be traps, bluffs, or bait. Resources are tight, and it takes time to build up enough of a bankroll to power through a breach. There’s a fun sense of frustration in spending all your resources, only to find there’s nothing on the other side. It nails that cat-and-mouse tension that made Netrunner great.
Card variety makes the decision space interesting, as many effects trigger only when a player “discovers” a card. This creates a fun dilemma—do you bypass a potential trap or flip it in hopes of scoring a valuable agent? Tactical positioning also matters. Agents serve as both your strongest asset and your greatest liability. If captured, it’s devastating. I’d compare them to the queen in chess—powerful, but in constant need of protection.
Final Thoughts
I played through the preview decks several times and, to be honest, the cards were a bit bland ability-wise. There were a few fun reveals, but nothing particularly memorable. And that’s okay! These decks are designed to teach the basics, and the game is still in development. I thoroughly enjoyed my duels with Hubworld: Aidalon, but after a few plays, I’m ready to pass the preview decks along.
What remains, however, is the hunger for more. I want the sets; I want the deckbuilding—I want it all. The preview decks have done their job: they left me wanting more. I believe Hubworld: Aidalon has the potential to be the next big card game alongside Arkham Horror LCG and Marvel Champions. It isn’t just a nostalgia trip—it’s a promise. And if the full release delivers on the tension and customization teased here, I’m ready to dive headfirst into the hubworld.
Check out Hubworld: Aidalon on Gamefound in 2025.
If I dared to dip my feet into the ocean that is the world of CCGs and LCGs again (I tended to spend way to much on MTG back in the day), this would be one I would purchase. Excellent review! Thanks.
Thank you!
Yes, the demo decks give you a nice taste of what’s to come. Very interesting to play at both the “runner” and the “corp.” So far, so good.
Also, Null Signal Games just recently put out a whole new box called “Elevation” to go along with their “System Gateway” core box so you can still scratch that Netrunner itch.