Last week we explored the rank and file of the Rippers. It should be clear though even by the time they reach the rank of Tough Nut, or Gunner, they far outclass the average street punk. Able to flip a car, or bring down military class firepower, these are the recruits ready to party with the big boys. Now, lets get serious.
Junk Dog (Low Powered Gang Leader + 8 Templates)
Rippers who want in on the good stuff have to prove they know how to take care of it. Junk Dogs take the best of the Nuts and Gunners, roll them together and clean it up. Junk Dogs strive to prove their creativity, both in the workshop and on the streets.
When Astro Kiddies are not available, Junk Dogs are quick to step up and lead scrap runs or transport jobs. More so, they tend to be more prone to inciting violence than other Rippers, if only to test their next jacket mod, or upgrade.
Astro Kiddie (Classic Lieutenant + 8 Templates)
Survive long enough, and the trove opens up. Junk Dogs get to upgrade their kit with scavenged alien tech from across a decade of invasions, wars and other weirdness. This typically means replacing basic machine guns with Zo blasters, or Ar’Dysis energy rifles.
Astro Kiddies have a fondness of bubble helmets and other adornments to highlight their upgraded gear. Don’t mistake this comical look for inexperience, any Astro Kiddie probably has as much practical knowledge as any mechanic, and has been in more scraps than a veteran boxer.
Doc (Classic Lieutenant + 8 Templates)
When the Rippers go to war, they bring the Docs. Doc’s aren’t just Astro Kiddies, but expert field techs, often with specialized tools to perform repairs on Ripper jackets. While they are just as skilled as the Kids, Docs often hang back, providing support and jumping in to help allies as needed. No frills, the Docs know the best way to win is to keep their gang in the fight longer than anyone else.
Thunderdome (Classic Force Battery + 3 Templates)
A favored tactic of both the Ar’Dysis and Zo, Force Batteries were used extensively during the First Invasion and Lensing Conflict. Portable energy shields, the Force Battery would provide an extra layer of protection to their troops. In addition to absorbing incoming blows Force Batteries allowed troops inside to fire out without obstruction.
The Ripper’s have been able to salvage a number of these batteries, and while they aren’t nearly as powerful, Thunderdomes offer the same benefits. The root, or base, of the force emitter is a meter to a meter and a half cube. Rarely are the original transmitters intact, instead they have been replaced with stolen satellite dishes and makeshift antenna.
When a Trunderfome is called for, a Doc will typically set up shop near the emitter to ensure maximum protection for their gang members.
A single member of the lieutenant tier is more than a match for the average street cop, and may be able give low powered heroes a run for their money. Unfortunately for the good guys, gang members rarely travel alone. Astro Kiddies are often accompanied by two or three Junk Dogs, and if there on a job, at least a small mob of lower rank members.
Next time we’ll tackle the big dogs, the top echelon of the Rippers, be prepared for the Mic Droppers, Wreckers, and Glitterati.
