In the prologue of Neuromancer, we are introduced to the protagonist, Case, a once-prominent hacker who has fallen from grace and now inhabits the dark, neon-lit streets of Chiba City, Japan. This bustling metropolis, known for its cybernetic enhancements and rampant crime, serves as a backdrop for Case's despair and desperation. The narrative begins with a vivid depiction of his surroundings, highlighting the gritty and dangerous nature of the city, which mirrors Case's own internal turmoil.

Case is portrayed as a washed-up figure, struggling with the repercussions of his past choices. Once a talented hacker who could navigate the digital world with ease, he now finds himself unable to connect to cyberspace due to the physical damage inflicted upon his nervous system by his previous employers. This injury resulted from an act of betrayal, leaving him not only physically incapacitated but also emotionally scarred, as he grapples with feelings of inadequacy and loss of identity.

The prologue delves into Case's backstory, revealing his earlier life as a skilled hacker capable of executing complex cyber intrusions. However, his reckless lifestyle, filled with drugs and dangerous liaisons, ultimately led to his downfall. The reader learns that Case's addiction to a potent drug called 'Synthahol' exacerbates his problems, further isolating him from the digital world he once dominated. As he roams the streets of Chiba City, he becomes increasingly aware of his own insignificance and the futility of his existence, which is compounded by his inability to engage with the cyberspace he craves.

Amidst this bleak existence, we see glimpses of the world around him, populated by other marginalized individuals and enhanced beings, who reflect the harsh realities of a society that values technological prowess over human connection. The prologue sets the tone for the novel, establishing the themes of identity, addiction, and the consequences of technological dependence. It paints a vivid picture of a dystopian future where the line between humanity and technology is blurred, and introduces the reader to a protagonist who is desperate for redemption and a second chance.

This opening chapter serves not only to introduce Case's character but also to immerse the reader in the atmosphere of the world Gibson has created, filled with towering skyscrapers, a thriving black market for cybernetic enhancements, and the ever-present specter of corporate control. As Case navigates this treacherous environment, the stage is set for his eventual journey into the depths of cyberspace, where his skills and resolve will be tested in ways he cannot yet imagine. The prologue effectively captures the essence of Case's plight, leaving the reader eager to follow his journey as he seeks to reclaim his former life amidst the chaos of Chiba City.