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Cybernetics

In the time after The Rupture, technology advanced rapidly as the world started rebuilding. Along with the great invention of the power reactors, the cybernetic market was born. Initially cybernetics were developed only for those protecting the citizens (law enforcement) and patients that needed them (like amputees). It didn't take long for the black market to capitalize on the opportunity, though. Criminals needed an edge against the super soldiers that were created and developed their own cybernetics, which then opened up a new stream of illigal income as well.
Back alley surgeons, known as Ripperdocs, could supply almost any cybernetic implant if you had the money and the influence. The general population of the world was left in the middle as the two opposite sides of the law took their battle to a new level.
  In 2091, the criminal force had developed their technology to such a level that the United Council decided to lift the firearm ban. The ban benefited the criminals more than the rest of the population. Civilians couldn't protect themselves in their own homes and some then turned to black market to do so, creating more criminals and bringing in more money for the gangs.
One year later, in 2092, the cybernetic restriction was lifted as well and cyber clinics opened to the public. The cost attached to getting cybernetic enhancements is still quite high, even to this day, and many still turn to the Ripperdocs for more affordable services. But what you save in money, you pay for in other ways. Ripperdocs are known for their shortcut procedures, secondhand parts and unhygienic practices. To many the risk is worth the reward. Cybernetics have more than just function, they have style and are an important part of the appearance of some.

Cyberpsychosis:

  Too many cybernetic enhancements can affect a person's psyche. The more modifications a person gets, the higher the risk that they will start to disassociate with society. This person may start to see themself more machine than flesh and eventually they may lose all sense of empathy. People that get to this stage are unpredictable and often very violent.
The symptoms and effects of cyberpsychosis vary from person to person. One person may succumb to it more easily than another, one may go on a murderous rampage while the other falls into a comatosed state.
There is no cure for cyberpsychosis. Therapy is known to help some, but not everyone can come back from it.

Utility

The different kinds of enhancements you can get with cybernetics are almost limitless. Nearly every part of the body can be replaced or/and modified in some way. Some enhancements provide combat advantage, some are necessary for survival and some are only for style.

Social Impact

Many people would not be seen dead on the street without their cybergear. There are gangs that require their members to have extreme cyber body modifications. There are also people that don't approve of cybernetic modifications, they believe that the body should remain natural and not be tampered with. The groups with opposite views on the matter sometimes come into conflict.
Access & Availability
Cybernetic enhancements are available to any that can pay the price. For those that are low on cash, Ripperdocs are cheaper than the clinics. However, they often deal in illigal parts and unsafe surgery practice.
Complexity
The development of this technology is limited to those with an understanding of cybernetic engineering. Due to the many types of cybernetics available, there are different branches of development. The different branches include but are not limited to: brain implants, eye implants, ear implants, artificial limbs, weaponized limbs and fashion items.

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Cover image: by Maciej Kuciara