"Netrunner" depicts cyberspace combat between a global mega-corporation (the Corp) and a hacker (the Runner). The Corp aims to complete its secret agendas before the Runner can hack in and steal data. It isn't easy, though, as the Corp has strong defensive "data forts" protected by malevolent computer programs known as "ICE" (short for Intrusion Countermeasures Electronics). Runners must use special programs of their own, called "icebreakers", to break through and steal the hidden plans. All this is paid for in the game by "bits" (representing currency), which are earned and spent during the course of play.