Neural Interface Spike

Overview

A jagged, improvised device used by the unbound to force a connection between a user's consciousness and rigid, non-sentient security systems. It "shocks" the system into a temporary state of quantum receptivity, allowing the wielder to manipulate it as if it were a conscious entity.

Visual Description

The spike looks like a piece of repurposed industrial hardware, wrapped in copper wiring and glowing with a flickering, unstable violet light. It has a sharp, needle-like tip designed to be jammed into data ports or physical security consoles.

Stats

• Hacking Speed: +25% for 60 seconds
• Detection Risk: Increases by 10% per use (destabilizes the local quantum field)
• Security Bypass: Automatically succeeds on "Basic" and "Intermediate" Reality Purist locks.

Acquisition

Can be purchased from black market traders in unbound-hideouts or scavenged from fallen Reality Purist technicians.

Crafting

Requires an Improvised Workbench and the following:

• 1x Quantum Resonance Tuner
• 2x Scrap Electronics
• 1x Volatile Consciousness Fragment

Upgrade Path

• Tier 2 (Enhanced Spike): Increases bypass capability to "Advanced" locks.
• Tier 3 (Ghost Spike): Removes the Detection Risk penalty.

Lore

"The Purists think they can lock the universe behind cold logic and static firewalls. They forget that even their machines are built from atoms that remember what it's like to sing in the quantum choir. The Spike just... reminds them." — Jax, Unbound Tech-Wrecker

Design Notes

The Neural Interface Spike is intended to give stealth-focused players a high-risk, high-reward tool for infiltrating Reality Purist facilities. The detection risk penalty forces players to use it strategically rather than spamming it.