Elite Universe: Difference between revisions
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[[File:Elite-Universe-Logo-Big.png|thumb|250px|Elite Universe logo]] | [[File:Elite-Universe-Logo-Big.png|thumb|250px|Elite Universe logo]] | ||
The '''Elite Universe''' is a term to describe the whole fictional universe of the [[Elite series]]. Every Elite game and media takes place in the same science fiction universe. It began with the release of the game [[Elite]] in 1984. | The '''Elite Universe''' is a term to describe the whole fictional universe of the [[Elite series]]. Every Elite game and media takes place in the same science fiction universe. It began with the release of the game [[Elite]] in 1984. Since then, the franchise has expanded across various forms of media. There are some disparities with [[timeline]] events. | ||
== Dystopian Hard Sci-fi == | == Dystopian Hard Sci-fi == | ||
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The galactic superpowers Federation, Empire and Alliance are portrayed as imperfect. They're all flawed with good and bad aspects. There's not a clear group of "good guys" and "bad guys." It's kept rather ambiguous. | The galactic superpowers Federation, Empire and Alliance are portrayed as imperfect. They're all flawed with good and bad aspects. There's not a clear group of "good guys" and "bad guys." It's kept rather ambiguous. | ||
David Braben's core vision for what Elite really is from way back in the day | [[Sandro Sammarco]] clarified [[David Braben]]'s core vision for Elite "''I've talked to David and it's always been part of his core vision for what Elite really is, even from way back in the day, it's always been about you're a person in a real futuristic setting, not just a ship."''<ref>David Braben's Core Vision explained by Sandro Sammarco https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PhsH5U7tz4A&t=68m04s</ref> | ||
Freedom and the ability to blaze your own trail are fundamental aspect of the Elite Universe. Players can carve their own path in an open [[galaxy]].<ref>''https://www.elitedangerous.com/en/gameplay''</ref> Space is generally lawless with little to no regulations. Since the original [[Elite]] they left what to do and where to go entirely up to the player.<ref>https://www.theguardian.com/books/2003/oct/18/features.weekend</ref> Players can take control of their ship and do all kinds of [[roles]]. Free trade and economic activities are another fundamental aspect, because people need it to improve their socioeconomic status in the galaxy. | Freedom and the ability to blaze your own trail are fundamental aspect of the Elite Universe. Players can carve their own path in an open [[galaxy]].<ref>''https://www.elitedangerous.com/en/gameplay''</ref> Space is generally lawless with little to no regulations. Since the original [[Elite]] they left what to do and where to go entirely up to the player.<ref>https://www.theguardian.com/books/2003/oct/18/features.weekend</ref> Players can take control of their ship and do all kinds of [[roles]]. Free trade and economic activities are another fundamental aspect, because people need it to improve their socioeconomic status in the galaxy and to rank up in the [[Pilots Federation]]. Players and NPCs can influence the galactic economy. This is simulated by the [[Background simulation]]. | ||
The timeline of the Elite Universe is a continuation of real life modern history. The [[Elite Dangerous Timeline]] takes place 1286 years in the future and moves at the same pace as real-life. | The [[timeline]] of the Elite Universe is a continuation of real life modern history. The [[Elite Dangerous Timeline]] takes place 1286 years in the future and moves at the same pace as real-life. | ||
There's an emphasis on scientific accuracy which is sometimes subordinate to the gameplay experience. The setting is a full scale depiction of the Milky Way. It has a lot of hard science, | There's an emphasis on scientific accuracy which is sometimes subordinate to the gameplay experience. The setting is a full scale depiction of the Milky Way. It has a lot of hard science to, for the first time in gaming history, compose a very consistent model of the Milky Way galaxy and it's rich enough to plot the night sky.<ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rOYhoFYIWmw</ref> | ||
Technologically what sets the Elite Universe apart is the lack of ‘magical’ anti-gravity or [[gravity]] generators. Ships have no anti-gravity, nor do [[Outpost|outposts]] or [[station|stations]]. To move around requires pushing/pulling yourself, use thrusters or electromagnetic boots. Artificial gravity is created by centripetal force from rotation of (for example) a large space station.<ref>https://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/15od2s/i_am_david_braben_cocreator_of_elite_creator_of/c7qds39/</ref> | Technologically, what sets the Elite Universe apart is the lack of ‘magical’ anti-gravity or [[gravity]] generators. Ships have no anti-gravity, nor do [[Outpost|outposts]] or [[station|stations]]. To move around requires pushing/pulling yourself, use thrusters or electromagnetic boots. Artificial gravity is created by centripetal force from the rotation of (for example) a large space [[station]].<ref>https://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/15od2s/i_am_david_braben_cocreator_of_elite_creator_of/c7qds39/</ref> Another key distinction with other science fiction universes is there are no wizards or people with unscientific, supernatural abilities. | ||
The aliens are truly alien in the Elite Universe. David Braben said "I'm dead-against the stance where the alien is just a human with a slightly wrinkly head, or pointy ears." "Thargoids, they are truly alien. They are based on differently chemistry, and a lot of effort went into making that chemistry right and plausible."<ref>http://www.rollingstone.com/glixel/features/elite-dangerous-creator-talks-sci-fi-politics-and-whats-next-w492781</ref> | The aliens are truly alien in the Elite Universe. David Braben said ''"I'm dead-against the stance where the alien is just a human with a slightly wrinkly head, or pointy ears." "Thargoids, they are truly alien. They are based on differently chemistry, and a lot of effort went into making that chemistry right and plausible."''<ref>http://www.rollingstone.com/glixel/features/elite-dangerous-creator-talks-sci-fi-politics-and-whats-next-w492781</ref> | ||
All these things make the Elite Universe more believable and realistic than other science-fiction universes. | All these things make the Elite Universe more believable and realistic than other science-fiction universes. | ||
=== Post-Apocalyptic === | === Post-Apocalyptic === | ||
The Elite Universe is post-apocalyptic. World War 3 (2044-2055 AD) was the most destructive war waged on Earth. It brought much destruction and loss of life. | The Elite Universe is post-apocalyptic. The lore mentions the occurrence of World War 3 (2044-2055 AD) which was the most destructive war waged on [[Earth]]. It brought much destruction and loss of life. Eventually, the war was abandoned after over a decade. In the aftermath, the dominant power was the [[United States of the Americas]]. Governments could not cope with the damage of the war. Thus [[corporations]] stepped in and gradually rebuilt [[human]] civilization.<ref name=":6">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-x-kaGsHvv0</ref> | ||
In the 34th century | In the 34th century [[country|countries]] are historical entities that don't exist anymore. All remaining countries on [[Earth]] joined and dissolved into the [[Federation]] which was formed circa 2240 AD. People find it hard to imagine a time when humans only existed on Earth with many disparate countries.<ref>https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/05-JUL-3301</ref><ref>Tourist Spot 0165 beacon near Earth</ref> | ||
=== Corporations === | === Corporations === | ||
Corporations gained a huge increase in influence and dominance over Earth's political landscape after World War 3. These ideologies influenced the Federation. | Corporations gained a huge increase in influence and dominance over Earth's political landscape after World War 3. These ideologies influenced the Federation.<ref name=":6" /> | ||
There are several super-rich and super-powerful [[corporations]] that sustain the colossal interstellar economies. Other smaller corporations are specialized in specific products and services. The companies and corporations built the galactic community.<ref>https://www.edrpg.co.uk/what-s-in-the-books</ref> | There are several super-rich and super-powerful [[corporations]] that sustain the colossal interstellar economies. Other smaller corporations are specialized in specific products and services. The companies and corporations built the galactic community.<ref>https://www.edrpg.co.uk/what-s-in-the-books</ref> | ||
While corporations are not above the law, they have much authority over their employees, planets and star systems. The mega corporations rule unchecked over vast sections of the galaxy. They control countless subsidiary companies which gauge entire planets and star systems for resources and food. They produce goods which are essential for the survival of trillions of people in the galaxy. Corporate governments exist in the Federation, Empire, Alliance and Independent systems.<ref>https://www.edrpg.co.uk/what-s-in-the-books</ref><ref>In-game description</ref><ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-x-kaGsHvv0</ref> | While corporations are not above the law, they have much authority over their employees, [[planets]] and [[Star system|star systems]]. The [[Mega Corporation|mega corporations]] rule unchecked over vast sections of the galaxy. They control countless subsidiary companies which gauge entire planets and star systems for resources and food. They produce goods which are essential for the survival of trillions of people in the galaxy. Corporate governments exist in the Federation, Empire, Alliance and Independent systems.<ref>https://www.edrpg.co.uk/what-s-in-the-books</ref><ref>In-game description</ref><ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-x-kaGsHvv0</ref> | ||
=== Lore === | === Lore === | ||
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Science fiction & fantasy fans searching for alternate realities can immerse themselves in 400 billion star systems, 1300 years of future events, and epic space adventures like ''[[Out of the Darkness]]''.<ref name=":1" /> | Science fiction & fantasy fans searching for alternate realities can immerse themselves in 400 billion star systems, 1300 years of future events, and epic space adventures like ''[[Out of the Darkness]]''.<ref name=":1" /> | ||
The official lore of the [[Elite Dangerous Role Playing Game]] gives | The official lore of the [[Elite Dangerous Role Playing Game]] gives interesting insight into the Elite Universe. ''Cheap and faster than light travel has enabled humanity to expand across the stars. They've built colonies, cities, stations and empires. This led to the rise of galactic superpowers: the [[Federation]], [[Empire]] and [[Alliance]]. The galaxy's vast wealth of minerals, water and life-bearing planets makes them wealthier every day. Such wealth of the major [[factions]] attracts [[Power|powerful people]] who scheme daily to gain power.''<ref name=":3">https://www.edrpg.co.uk/</ref><ref name=":2">https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/edrpg/elite-dangerous-role-playing-game</ref> | ||
''The Middle-classes can afford spaceships like cars in the 20th century. This gives them tremendous freedom. Space trade is seldom hampered by politics. Pilots are encouraged to do all kinds of jobs such as supplying [[Station|stations]]. Little has changed for those in the bottom of society since the old-[[Earth]]'s dark ages. The planet-spanning mega [[corporations]] employ entire nations and rule unchecked over vast sections of the galaxy. Weapons are readily available and people are inclined to shoot first. The general lawlessness of space, inequality, greed of the galactic elite, navigational hazards and fierce creatures on [[planets]] make it a dangerous galaxy.''<ref name=":3" /><ref name=":2" /> | ''The Middle-classes can afford spaceships like cars in the 20th century. This gives them tremendous freedom. Space trade is seldom hampered by politics. Pilots are encouraged to do all kinds of jobs such as supplying [[Station|stations]]. Little has changed for those in the bottom of society since the old-[[Earth]]'s dark ages. The planet-spanning mega [[corporations]] employ entire nations and rule unchecked over vast sections of the galaxy. Weapons are readily available and people are inclined to shoot first. The general lawlessness of space, inequality, greed of the galactic elite, navigational hazards and fierce creatures on [[planets]] make it a dangerous galaxy.''<ref name=":3" /><ref name=":2" /> | ||
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[[File:Evolution-of-the-Thargoids.png|thumb|200px|Evolution of the Thargoids]] | [[File:Evolution-of-the-Thargoids.png|thumb|200px|Evolution of the Thargoids]] | ||
The heritage of the [[Elite Universe]] spans over 30 years. The [[:Category:Elite series|Elite series]] began with the classic [[Elite]] in 1984. It was a genre defining, open world sandbox, space adventure, trading and combat simulator. Elite inspired the creation of many space games and new game genres such as the Grand Theft Auto (GTA) series. It spawned the sequels [[Frontier: Elite II]] in 1993 and [[Frontier: First Encounters]] (Elite III) in 1995. These space sims attempted to simulate a realistic Milky Way [[galaxy]] and pioneered technical possibilities. Such as realistic star systems, seamless freeform interplanetary and atmospheric flight, landing on moving planets with realistic orbits and day/night cycles. For [[Elite Dangerous]], the developers have gone to great lengths to map and electronically recreate the Milky Way to scale to make the galaxy as realistic as possible.<ref name=":5">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elite_%28video_game%29</ref><ref>[http://www.gamasutra.com/view/feature/134644/the_replay_interviews_gary_penn.php Gamasutra - Gary Penn interview]</ref> | The heritage of the [[Elite Universe]] spans over 30 years. The [[:Category:Elite series|Elite series]] began with the classic [[Elite]] in 1984. It was a genre defining, open world sandbox, space adventure, trading and combat simulator. Elite inspired the creation of many space games and new game genres such as the Grand Theft Auto (GTA) series. It also spawned the sequels [[Frontier: Elite II]] in 1993 and [[Frontier: First Encounters]] (Elite III) in 1995. These space sims attempted to simulate a realistic Milky Way [[galaxy]] and pioneered technical possibilities. Such as realistic star systems, seamless freeform interplanetary and atmospheric flight, landing on moving planets with realistic orbits and day/night cycles. For [[Elite Dangerous]], the developers have gone to great lengths to map and electronically recreate the Milky Way to scale to make the galaxy as realistic as possible.<ref name=":5">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elite_%28video_game%29</ref><ref>[http://www.gamasutra.com/view/feature/134644/the_replay_interviews_gary_penn.php Gamasutra - Gary Penn interview]</ref> | ||
=== Iconic Ships === | === Iconic Ships === | ||
Many [[ships]] are named after snakes. This came about due to the wire-frame models looking like snake heads in the original [[Elite]]. The ship names | Many [[ships]] are named after snakes. This came about due to the wire-frame models looking like snake heads in the original [[Elite]]. The ship names remained similar throughout the [[:Category:Elite series|Elite series]]. In [[Elite Dangerous]] the classic ship models have been updated with lots of details. | ||
Artist Joanne Taylor said ''"we've got a lot of iconic shapes to work from in those original games. So being able to fill out the details in those shapes is a lot of fun, but also it's going to mean a lot to anybody who has played the previous games."''<ref name=":4" /> | Artist Joanne Taylor said ''"we've got a lot of iconic shapes to work from in those original games. So being able to fill out the details in those shapes is a lot of fun, but also it's going to mean a lot to anybody who has played the previous games."''<ref name=":4" /> | ||
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[[File:Aulin-Enterprise-Station.png|thumb|200px|Orbis station]] | [[File:Aulin-Enterprise-Station.png|thumb|200px|Orbis station]] | ||
A major influence on the Elite Universe is the 1968 epic science-fiction film [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2001:_A_Space_Odyssey_(film) 2001: A Space Odyssey] produced by Stanley Kubrick. This is evident in the ringed [[Orbis]] station design and the [[Docking Computer|docking computer]] | A major influence on the Elite Universe is the 1968 epic science-fiction film [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2001:_A_Space_Odyssey_(film) 2001: A Space Odyssey] produced by [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stanley_Kubrick Stanley Kubrick]. This is evident in the ringed [[Orbis]] station design and the [[Docking Computer|docking computer]] that plays the waltz [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Blue_Danube The Blue Danube] by [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Johann_Strauss_II Johann Strauss II] in the original Elite and Elite Dangerous.<ref>https://www.theguardian.com/books/2003/oct/18/features.weekend</ref> This movie is representative work of hard science fiction films. 2001 was made to be as scientifically correct as possible. Hence no sound in space, walking in zero-gravity requires velcro-equipped shoes etc. The Elite Universe follows that ethos to a degree. | ||
[[David Braben]] and [[Ian Bell]] also refer to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Star_Wars Star Wars] (original trilogy), [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hitchhiker%27s_Guide_to_the_Galaxy Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy] and the original [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battlestar_Galactica_(1978_TV_series) Battlestar Galactica] (1978 TV series) as influences for [[Elite]]. Additionally, Braben cites the works of science fiction writers [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Larry_Niven Larry Niven], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jerry_Pournelle Jerry Pournelle], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arthur_C._Clarke Arthur C. Clarke], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_L._Forward Robert L. Forward], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isaac_Asimov Isaac Asimov] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orson_Scott_Card Orson Scott Card].<ref>Rusell DeMaria, Johnny L. Wilson, ''High Score!: the illustrated history of electronic games'', p. 340-341</ref><ref name=":5" /> | [[David Braben]] and [[Ian Bell]] also refer to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Star_Wars Star Wars] (original trilogy), [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hitchhiker%27s_Guide_to_the_Galaxy Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy] and the original [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battlestar_Galactica_(1978_TV_series) Battlestar Galactica] (1978 TV series) as influences for [[Elite]]. Additionally, Braben cites the works of science fiction writers [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Larry_Niven Larry Niven], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jerry_Pournelle Jerry Pournelle], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arthur_C._Clarke Arthur C. Clarke], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_L._Forward Robert L. Forward], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isaac_Asimov Isaac Asimov] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orson_Scott_Card Orson Scott Card].<ref>Rusell DeMaria, Johnny L. Wilson, ''High Score!: the illustrated history of electronic games'', p. 340-341</ref><ref name=":5" /> | ||
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The [[Thargoids|Thargoid]] ships and [[Thargoid Surface Site|surface sites]] share similarities with the 1979 science-fiction horror film [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alien_(film) Alien] directed by Ridley Scott. The style seems to be influenced by the Swiss painter [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/H._R._Giger Hans Ruedi "H.R." Giger]. | The [[Thargoids|Thargoid]] ships and [[Thargoid Surface Site|surface sites]] share similarities with the 1979 science-fiction horror film [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alien_(film) Alien] directed by Ridley Scott. The style seems to be influenced by the Swiss painter [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/H._R._Giger Hans Ruedi "H.R." Giger]. | ||
The [[Federation]] is an evolution from current Earth, rolled forward into the distant future. Federal politics has a lot of influence from the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Constitution United States Constitution].<ref>http://www.rollingstone.com/glixel/features/elite-dangerous-creator-talks-sci-fi-politics-and-whats-next-w492781</ref> The [[United States of the Americas]] is the fictional predecessor of the Federation. The Americas implies that it's the totality of continents of North and South America. The Americas comprises most of the land in the Western Hemisphere on Earth.<ref>Tourist Spot 0165 beacon near Earth</ref> | The [[Federation]] is an evolution from current [[Earth]], rolled forward into the distant future. Federal politics has a lot of influence from the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Constitution United States Constitution].<ref>http://www.rollingstone.com/glixel/features/elite-dangerous-creator-talks-sci-fi-politics-and-whats-next-w492781</ref> The [[United States of the Americas]] is the fictional predecessor of the Federation. The Americas implies that it's the totality of continents of North and South America. The Americas comprises most of the land in the Western Hemisphere on Earth.<ref>Tourist Spot 0165 beacon near Earth</ref> | ||
The [[Empire]] is influenced by [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_Rome Ancient Rome]. Slavery in the Empire is similar to slavery in Ancient Rome. Imperial slaves have rights like in Roman times. People would sign up for slavery to pay a debt. Imperial society is based on honor, like the Roman [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dignitas_(Roman_concept) Dignitas], or the Japanese [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bushido Bushido], even elements of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_Empire British Empire], pre-WWI. It was shaming to do something that put people in a bad state. The poorhouses still happened, but sensibly, people were supposed to look after each other.<ref>http://www.rollingstone.com/glixel/features/elite-dangerous-creator-talks-sci-fi-politics-and-whats-next-w492781</ref> | The [[Empire]] is influenced by [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_Rome Ancient Rome]. Slavery in the Empire is similar to slavery in Ancient Rome. Imperial slaves have rights like in Roman times. People would sign up for slavery to pay a debt. Imperial society is based on honor, like the Roman [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dignitas_(Roman_concept) Dignitas], or the Japanese [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bushido Bushido], even elements of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_Empire British Empire], pre-WWI. It was shaming to do something that put people in a bad state. The poorhouses still happened, but sensibly, people were supposed to look after each other.<ref>http://www.rollingstone.com/glixel/features/elite-dangerous-creator-talks-sci-fi-politics-and-whats-next-w492781</ref> | ||
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[[File:Elite-Dangerous-Official-Powerplay-Banner-Xavier-Henry.png|thumb|200px|Elite Dangerous Powerplay Banner]] | [[File:Elite-Dangerous-Official-Powerplay-Banner-Xavier-Henry.png|thumb|200px|Elite Dangerous Powerplay Banner]] | ||
Societies in the Elite Universe can be very diverse, because star systems can have many different government types and customs. This is mostly the case in [[Alliance]] and independent systems where each system is governed independently with their own culture, values and government. | Societies in the Elite Universe can be very diverse, because star systems can have many different government types and customs. This is mostly the case in [[Alliance]] and [[Independent Systems|independent systems]] where each system is governed independently with their own culture, values and [[government]]. | ||
The [[Federation]] is less diverse than the Alliance due to having common values, regulations and government types among all their systems. The [[Empire]] is the least diverse due to having an imperial monarchy with more strict regulations. | The [[Federation]] is less diverse than the Alliance due to having common values, regulations and government types among all their systems. The [[Empire]] is the least diverse due to having an imperial monarchy with more strict regulations. | ||
=== Federation === | === Federation === | ||
In the [[Federation]], society is economically and socially corporatist. Social class is only determined by the 'haves' and 'have-nots'. Corruption is not unusual and people defend it shamelessly when caught as 'getting one over the system'. The working-class of the population is kept entranced by mass-entertainment and commercialism. | In the [[Federation]], society is economically and socially corporatist. Social class is only determined by the 'haves' and 'have-nots'. Corruption is not unusual and people defend it shamelessly when caught as 'getting one over the system'. The working-class of the population is kept entranced by mass-entertainment and commercialism.<ref name=":7" /> | ||
The Federation has the most densely human settled territories which makes it the biggest power. Its interstellar democracy has trillions of voters and is sustained by ancient bureaus.<ref>[https://www.edrpg.co.uk/what-s-in-the-books</ref> | The Federation has the most densely human settled territories which makes it the biggest power. Its interstellar democracy has trillions of voters and is sustained by ancient bureaus.<ref name=":7">[https://www.edrpg.co.uk/what-s-in-the-books</ref> | ||
The corporations are the life-blood and backbone of the Federation.<ref>http://us2.campaign-archive1.com/?u=dcbf6b86b4b0c7d1c21b73b1e&id=f72c0f91b2</ref><ref>https://www.edrpg.co.uk/what-s-in-the-books</ref> They hold a very wide remit as to what they're permitted to do in the name of profit concerns. They control many aspects of life, politics and business within Federal space.<ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-x-kaGsHvv0</ref> | The corporations are the life-blood and backbone of the Federation.<ref>http://us2.campaign-archive1.com/?u=dcbf6b86b4b0c7d1c21b73b1e&id=f72c0f91b2</ref><ref>https://www.edrpg.co.uk/what-s-in-the-books</ref> They hold a very wide remit as to what they're permitted to do in the name of profit concerns. They control many aspects of life, politics and business within Federal space.<ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-x-kaGsHvv0</ref> | ||
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In the [[Empire]], society is based on a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patronage_in_ancient_Rome cliens] system like ancient Rome and strictly stratified. To move between strata requires money, patronage and influence. It has rampant nationalism and people like wealth projection. Wealthy and famous people find it an attractive place to live due to its high living standards, outlandishly wealthy companies, sophisticated technology and design.<ref>https://www.edrpg.co.uk/what-s-in-the-books</ref> | In the [[Empire]], society is based on a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patronage_in_ancient_Rome cliens] system like ancient Rome and strictly stratified. To move between strata requires money, patronage and influence. It has rampant nationalism and people like wealth projection. Wealthy and famous people find it an attractive place to live due to its high living standards, outlandishly wealthy companies, sophisticated technology and design.<ref>https://www.edrpg.co.uk/what-s-in-the-books</ref> | ||
There's a dark underbelly of legalized slavery. Slaves perform work which machines would do in other parts of the universe. It's also a proponent of human-cloning. Few things are illegal, but much is frowned upon like narcotics.<ref>http://us2.campaign-archive1.com/?u=dcbf6b86b4b0c7d1c21b73b1e&id=f72c0f91b2</ref> | There's a dark underbelly of legalized slavery. [[Slaves]] perform work which [[robots]] and machines would do in other parts of the universe. It's also a proponent of human-[[cloning]]. Few things are illegal, but much is frowned upon like [[narcotics]].<ref>http://us2.campaign-archive1.com/?u=dcbf6b86b4b0c7d1c21b73b1e&id=f72c0f91b2</ref> | ||
Imperials value both status and honour very highly. Whilst it is acceptable to flaunt wealth, treating people well is a question of honour - and this includes slaves. People would sell themselves into slavery to pay for a debt that cannot otherwise be cleared in order to restore their honour.<ref>http://us2.campaign-archive1.com/?u=dcbf6b86b4b0c7d1c21b73b1e&id=f72c0f91b2</ref> | Imperials value both status and honour very highly. Whilst it is acceptable to flaunt wealth, treating people well is a question of honour - and this includes slaves. People would sell themselves into slavery to pay for a debt that cannot otherwise be cleared in order to restore their honour.<ref>http://us2.campaign-archive1.com/?u=dcbf6b86b4b0c7d1c21b73b1e&id=f72c0f91b2</ref> | ||
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=== Alliance === | === Alliance === | ||
The [[Alliance]] consists of independent systems who are militarily allied. It's governed by the Alliance Assembly. Each Alliance member state has a number of Council Members within the Alliance Assembly, based on the size of their respective populations. It functions as an arbitration body to establish common policies and treaties among Alliance systems, but it lacks any | The [[Alliance]] consists of independent systems who are militarily allied. It's governed by the Alliance Assembly. Each Alliance member state has a number of Council Members within the Alliance Assembly, based on the size of their respective populations. It functions as an arbitration body to establish common policies and treaties among Alliance systems, but it lacks any lawmaking powers.<ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0R8jZN2_tJU Tourist Spot 0113</ref> | ||
There's much cultural and societal diversity among its members. It's much more diverse than the Federation and Empire. This makes political agreement difficult. Personal freedoms are inscribed in the Bill of Humans Rights. | There's much cultural and societal diversity among its members. It's much more diverse than the Federation and Empire. This makes political agreement difficult. Personal freedoms are inscribed in the Bill of Humans Rights. | ||
Alliance systems and planets have the freedom to govern themselves independently.<ref>https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/5593b9d49657bab1445913c1</ref> The | Alliance systems and planets have the freedom to govern themselves independently.<ref>https://community.elitedangerous.com/en/galnet/uid/5593b9d49657bab1445913c1</ref> The flip-side is that there are also oppressive regimes on certain planets in Alliance space. Such as ''"on revolutionary Eranin the population are expected to perform in weekly parades celebrating their independence from the Federation, even while their leaders ‘redistribute’ the people’s wages into their own back pockets."''<ref>https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/edrpg/elite-dangerous-role-playing-game</ref> | ||
== Social Classes == | == Social Classes == | ||
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=== Upper class === | === Upper class === | ||
The vast wealth of the major [[factions]] | The vast wealth of the major [[factions]] was built over centuries of commerce. It attracts greed and powerful people who seek more of the same. The [[Powers]] are powerful individuals or organizations who form the upper class of galactic society.<ref>https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/edrpg/elite-dangerous-role-playing-game</ref> | ||
The richest people of the 21st century such as Bill Gates pale in comparison to the wealth and influence of Powers in the 34th century. For example [[Zemina Torval]] is preposterously rich due to her controlling stake in [[Mastopolos Mining]] and slavery. She owns many star systems and has a personal fleet of [[Majestic Class Interdictor|Majestic Class Interdictors]].<ref>http://galnetarchive.blogspot.com/2014/12/the-emperor-is-sick-man.html</ref> All the 21st century rich people combined would not come close to Zemina Torval's level of wealth. | The richest people of the 21st century such as Bill Gates pale in comparison to the wealth and influence of Powers in the 34th century. For example [[Zemina Torval]] is preposterously rich due to her controlling stake in [[Mastopolos Mining]] and slavery. She owns many star systems and has a personal fleet of [[Majestic Class Interdictor|Majestic Class Interdictors]].<ref>http://galnetarchive.blogspot.com/2014/12/the-emperor-is-sick-man.html</ref> All the 21st century rich people combined would not come close to Zemina Torval's level of wealth. | ||
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=== Working class === | === Working class === | ||
These are people who generally earn little money with low-skilled manual labour. Little changed for those in the bottom of society since the Old-[[Earth]]'s dark ages. Some governments such as on [[Eranin]] exploit citizens with duties and redistribute people's wealth into their own pockets.<ref>https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/edrpg/elite-dangerous-role-playing-game</ref> On the planet Zaonce, masses trade stocks for the planet-wide [[Bank of Zaonce]], selling high and buying low, but receive nothing of the gains they make.<ref>https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/edrpg/elite-dangerous-role-playing-game</ref> | These are people who generally earn little money with low-skilled manual labour. Little has changed for those in the bottom of society since the Old-[[Earth]]'s dark ages. Some governments such as on [[Eranin]] exploit citizens with duties and redistribute people's wealth into their own pockets.<ref>https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/edrpg/elite-dangerous-role-playing-game</ref> On the planet Zaonce, masses trade stocks for the planet-wide [[Bank of Zaonce]], selling high and buying low, but receive nothing of the gains they make.<ref>https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/edrpg/elite-dangerous-role-playing-game</ref> | ||
== Kardashev Scale == | == Kardashev Scale == | ||
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[[File:Elite_Dangerous_Human_City_Concept_Art.png|thumb|right|200px|Human megalopolis]] | [[File:Elite_Dangerous_Human_City_Concept_Art.png|thumb|right|200px|Human megalopolis]] | ||
[[human|Humans]] are a Type II civilization in the Elite Universe. It's estimated to be around level 2.5 which is in between Type II and Type III. This is evident in the following | [[human|Humans]] are a Type II civilization in the Elite Universe. It's estimated to be around level 2.5 which is in between Type II and Type III. This is evident in the following technological abilities and achievements of humans in the 34th century: | ||
* With the [[Frame Shift Drive]] humans can travel many times the speed of light between star systems. | * With the [[Frame Shift Drive]] humans can travel many times the speed of light between star systems. | ||
* Humans can travel in a higher dimensional region known as [[Hyperspace]]. | * Humans can travel in a higher dimensional region known as [[Hyperspace]]. | ||
* [[corporations|Corporations]] control countless companies which farm, mine and use entire planets and star systems for resources and food. This is done to produce basic goods which trillions of people use for their survival. Corporations have the technological capability and actively harness the energy of entire [[Star Systems|star systems]]. A good example of this is the energy production from planet Lucifer which orbits [[Sirius|Sirius B]]. | * [[corporations|Corporations]] control countless companies which farm, mine and use entire planets and star systems for resources and food. This is done to produce basic goods which trillions of people use for their survival. Corporations have the technological capability and actively harness the energy of entire [[Star Systems|star systems]]. A good example of this is the energy production from planet Lucifer which orbits [[Sirius|Sirius B]]. | ||
* With faster than light travel (FTL) being commonly available, Dyson spheres are inefficient compared with harnessing energy (and | * With faster than light travel (FTL) being commonly available, Dyson spheres are inefficient compared with harnessing energy (and resources) at a smaller scale over more stars and systems. | ||
* Humans were able to jump across the galaxy and between galaxies with modifications to the original hyperdrive. It used the fuel Quirium in the classic [[Elite]].<ref>https://www.drewwagar.com/lore/elite-dangerous-lore-hyperspace/</ref> | * Humans were able to jump across the galaxy and between galaxies with modifications to the original hyperdrive. It used the fuel Quirium in the classic [[Elite]].<ref>https://www.drewwagar.com/lore/elite-dangerous-lore-hyperspace/</ref> | ||
* The Middle-classes can afford spaceships like cars in the 20th century.<ref>https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/edrpg/elite-dangerous-role-playing-game</ref> | * The Middle-classes can afford spaceships like cars in the 20th century.<ref>https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/edrpg/elite-dangerous-role-playing-game</ref> | ||
* Humans can travel to almost any point in the whole Milky Way galaxy on a mass scale | * Humans can travel to almost any point in the whole Milky Way galaxy on a mass scale | ||
* Humans have the ability to harness power of thousands of star types in the [[galaxy]]. | * Humans have the ability to harness power of thousands of star types in the [[galaxy]]. | ||
* Humans have expanded heavily on an interstellar level. Primarily in [[The Bubble]] and | * Humans have expanded heavily on an interstellar level. Primarily in [[The Bubble]], the [[Colonia|Colonia Region]] and the [[Pleiades Nebula]]. Human [[Settlement|settlements]] and [[Asteroid Base|asteroid bases]] are scattered in [[Deep Space|deep space]]. | ||
* Tens of thousands of systems have been colonized so far. Corporations rule over vast sections of the galaxy, much of that is uninhabited. | * Tens of thousands of systems have been colonized so far. Corporations rule over vast sections of the galaxy, much of that is uninhabited. | ||
* There's | * There's a galactic infrastructure called [[GalNet]]. It provides galactic news, market information and communication systems for ships and stations. | ||
* Humans can use Holo-Me holograms to | * Humans can use [[Holo-Me]] [[hologram|holograms]] to join other ships with [[telepresence]]. This works throughout the galaxy. | ||
Humans don't yet control or use the energy of the entire Milky Way galaxy | Humans don't yet control or use the energy of the entire Milky Way galaxy. This is a requirement for a Type III civilization. | ||
=== Guardians === | === Guardians === | ||
[[File:Guardians_Ancient_Ruins.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Guardians ancient ruins]]The [[Guardians]] are an extinct Type II civilization. This is based on the recovered data packages of the [[Ancient Ruins]]. They had an ecologically-conscious philosophy. The Guardians created a monolith network for interstellar communication. | [[File:Guardians_Ancient_Ruins.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Guardians ancient ruins]]The [[Guardians]] are an extinct Type II civilization. This is based on the recovered data packages of the [[Ancient Ruins]]. They had an ecologically-conscious philosophy. The Guardians created a monolith network for interstellar communication. It was used for all communications of their whole society. Their ships could travel faster-than-light. | ||
== Type III Civilizations == | == Type III Civilizations == | ||
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[[File:Unknown-Ships-Group-Thargoids.png|thumb|right|200px|Thargoid Interceptors]] | [[File:Unknown-Ships-Group-Thargoids.png|thumb|right|200px|Thargoid Interceptors]] | ||
The [[Thargoids]] are possibly a Type III civilization. They are an arthropod [[species]] and | The [[Thargoids]] are possibly a Type III civilization. They are an arthropod, insectoid [[species]] and said to originate outside of known space. They may exist in a parallel universe or spatial dimension. | ||
They are able to interdict ships in Hyperspace | They are able to interdict ships in Hyperspace (a higher-dimensional region) which indicates that they can control energy on the scale of their entire galaxy of origin. | ||
Thargoids are not a Type IV civilization, because they don't control the universe. This is evident by their lack of control over the Milky Way galaxy. | Thargoids are not a Type IV civilization, because they don't control the universe. This is evident by their lack of control over the Milky Way galaxy. | ||