A steamjack is a mechanikal construct given the ability to reason by a magical brain, known as a cortex. A steamjack does not possess high cognitive powers, but it can execute simple commands and make logical decisions to complete its assigned tasks. Throughout the Iron Kingdoms, Steamjacks perform a variety of heavy or dangerous tasks that would be impossible for a human.
Steamjacks fall under one of two classifications: laborjacks and warjacks. Laborjacks are relatively simple machines built for physical labor, whereas warjacks are sophisticated weapons of war bristling with state-of-the-art arms and armor. With the realities of the modern world in which clapped-out military ’jacks find themselves pulling plows after decades of service and laborjacks are armored and retrofitted with military-grade hardware by desperate mercenary outfits, these distinctions can blur.
Laborjacks are strong and rugged workers used primarily for physical labor, such as hauling cargo off ships or construction work, where their great strength is a huge asset. These machines have simple mechanika minds geared toward following careful instructions and carrying out simple tasks. They are not quick thinking and are ill suited for complex roles on the battlefield.
Warjacks, on the other hand, are dedicated fighting machines with the reflexes and cognitive capacity to recognize friend from foe easily and operate a battery of complex weapon systems. Warjacks are built with strength as well as speed and intelligence in mind; they are capable of limited autonomy in combat and select their own targets to engage. Warjacks are protective of their controllers and dedicated to the destruction of their enemies.