[Mara]

So, you are making a character that their backstory is: they are the child of Shadowrunners, who
has started running the shadows. What Knowledge Skills would be considered "must haves"?
Outside of their specialty, what Active Skills would be important to have, as well?

[rasmusnicolaj]

Probably at least basic weapon skills with both some ranged type of firearm and something for close combat.
Infiltration (maybe the whole Stealth Group).
Perception.
Data Search.
Knowledge skills that explains their familiarity with the shadow world/ community.
Depending on their parents paranoia some survival skills too.
First Aid.
Some of the key abilities reflecting both parents specialities - their parents will have tried to learn their kids some of what they are best at.

Rasmus

[Glyph]

Knowledge skills would probably be things like guerilla tactics, corporate politics, corporate security, underworld politics, safe houses, Seattle black market, pirate tridnews, and so on.  They would tend to be practical knowledge rather than hobbies.

Active skills would be a problem, since there are too many "any shadowrunner would know this" skills - so you would have your specialty, and then lots of low-rated skills.  Karmagen, where low-rated skills are cheaper, would be your best bet for this type of character.

[raggedhalo]

Runner's Companion recommends that all shadowrunners should have Computer, Data Search, Dodge, Etiquette, Infiltration, Perception and a close-combat-type skill, so I figure that's what shadowrunner parents would teach their child as a base.  As for Knowledge sills, I think Glyph has it covered, but always include a sport or something for downtime.