Missions and Ops (Operations) in Cybercore are categorized by a Mission Tier, guiding GMs to appropriate challenges for each Tier. Players must know the Mission Tier in advance, as specific abilities hinge on this designation.
Abilities labeled "per Mission Tier" grant usage based on the Mission's Tier — once for Tier 1 missions, twice for Tier 2, and thrice for Tier 3, aligning closely with the player's current Tier. The same applies to "per Op Tier" abilities.
Deep Ops serve as specialized, optional Ops within a Misson, adding a layer of challenge and extending the standard three Op/Mission format. Engaging in a Deep Op will stretch the squad's resources even though it provides an opportunity to recharge or gain extra uses of abilities according to the Deep Op's Tier.
For example, consider an ability designated as "per Mission Tier" already used in the Tier 1 mission. This ability would be refreshed should the player embark on a Tier 2 Deep Op, granting one additional use. Similarly, "per Op Tier" abilities would receive an extra two uses. This recharge mechanism offers players enhanced flexibility and a strategic edge as they strive to achieve the added objectives of the Deep Op. Nevertheless, pursuing these optional Side Ops presents a significant gamble of risk versus reward. Successfully navigating a Deep Op without tapping into the extra ability allows its conservation for subsequent Ops within the ongoing Mission. Conversely, failing the Deep Op leads to the loss of any unused abilities and further depletes resources due to operational strain.
Opting into a Deep Op comes with inherent risks, potentially affecting the outcome of the primary Mission. Players should know the Deep Op's Tier beforehand, employing strategic foresight or abilities like Rodi Premonitions to make informed decisions. Even environmental cues, like a sign warning of a "Level 2 Secured Area," can serve as subtle hints towards the challenge level ahead.
It's important to note that the difficulty of Deep Ops is scaled according to the parent mission's Tier, ensuring challenges remain balanced. A Tier 3 Deep Op on a Tier 1 mission is not the equivalent of a genuine Tier 3 Op. If it wasn't scaled, it would lead to a less enjoyable experience for the players and potentially give manic GMs a case of the giggles (You know who you are).