Cyberpunk is a subgenre of science fiction that emerged in the 1980s, characterized by its focus on high technology and low life. These stories typically feature advanced technological and scientific achievements, such as artificial intelligence and cybernetics, juxtaposed with a degree of breakdown or radical change in the social order. Cyberpunk narratives often explore themes of corporate power, artificial intelligence, virtual reality, genetic engineering, and the impact of technology on human society. The genre is known for its gritty, urban settings, anti-hero protagonists, and its critical examination of the relationship between humans and technology. What makes cyberpunk unique is its ability to blend cutting-edge technological concepts with noir-style storytelling and social commentary.

Cyberpunk emerged in the early 1980s as a response to the rapid advancement of computer technology and the growing power of multinational corporations. William Gibson's "Neuromancer" (1984) is widely considered the definitive cyberpunk novel, establishing many of the genre's core themes and aesthetic elements. The 1990s saw the rise of post-cyberpunk, which maintained the technological focus but was less pessimistic about the future. Today, cyberpunk continues to evolve, incorporating new technologies like artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and genetic engineering while maintaining its focus on the relationship between humans and technology.