2014 re-read. Jack Chalker is always an interesting author to re-visit and this one was still enjoyable after many years since the last time read. ( )

One of my all time favorite SF sets. Setting is an interesting diorama-ish future earth. A way out falls into the lap of an unlikely rebel and the chase begins. The constraints placed upon the system by the system make it a potentially winnable game, but only barely. ( )

I have to wonder if Chalker just wants to see lots and lots of lesbian sex or something.
Not there was any graphic anything, but it seems like he [Chalker] is always turning his characters into females who are already with a female.

That or he has boob envy".

Anyway. Think:
Skynet took over, but didn't wipe us out. It had to protect us, even from ourselves. But there is a master set of keys to turn off the Master System and release humanity back into its own control.

This book sets up the band of characters who will challenge Master Control [Tron reference for all you uninitiated].

Amerindian, Caribbean, Asian culture, with little to no European or African influence. Interesting." ( )

As often , the first book in the series is intriguing as I get to grips with the world building; this was no exception ( )

Published in 1986, one would think this story would feel dated. And yet, it doesn't, for the most part. Issues like free-will, gender, racism, control and power, morality, and slavery all get woven into a prose that explores these things without devolving into being preachy. And considering the time period, the portrayal of women and minorities is more progressive than I expected. There is a bit of stereotyping, but considering the main protagonists are a Male American Indian and a Female Chinese, it's not bad. The characters are fascinating, each unique, with depth and flaws and quirks. Chalker didn't shy away from having bad things happen to them, either. And the whole concept of someone being able to re-write your personality, to fit whatever they wanted, and you would never know? Terrifying. The book was a little slow to start and it took a while for me to catch the jargon of the world. But overall, it's a fine start to the series and I'm eager to see where the story goes. ( )