Scientists sometimes try to categorise different species in an attempt to create a galactic evolutionary tree; whether such a thing is possible, or whether similar races are products of coincidental independent evolution is unknown. Sentient alien species are divided roughly into the following categories, although there is some argument amongst leading scientists as to the placement of some races.
Avian Races. Some races are able to fly, or are descended from birds or other flying creatures. Avians possess limited or full flight.
Amphibian & Aquatic Races. These races can breathe underwater and have a natural SWIM speed; Aquatic races have a reduced LAND speed.
Crystalline & Mineral Races. While carbon-based life is plentiful, it is not the only option. Crystalline creatures are tough and resistant to damage, do not need to breathe, but are vulnerable to Sonic damage and can be brittle when falling.
Exotic Races. Some races defy categorisation.
Human Races. Humanity is a varied race which has spread throughout the galaxy. Not all humans evolved on Earth, which has led some scientists to support the common progenitor race theory.
Humanoid Races. These races evolved from various native animal species similar to those found on Earth.
Insectoid Races. It's not just mammals and reptiles who make up the species of the galaxy. Insectoids have a natural CLIMB speed and are able to move on walls and ceilings with ease.
Mechanoid Races. Some races come into being via technology rather than biology. Mechanoids share a range of traits, including vulnerability to Electricity and Ion damage, an immunity to mental attacks, a lack of biological functions and a deterministic nature.
Plant (Botanical) Races. Plants are hardy but vulnerable to fire; they are able to ignore difficult terrain.
Reptilian Races. There are many reptilian races in the galaxy. Reptiles are cold-blooded and thus vulnerable to Cold damage.
Also included is the Race-Building Engine, so that you can easily build your own custom alien race ready for play.
The seven species listed in the N.E.W. core rulebook are also listed here - Androids, Borians, Felans, Humans, Ogrons, Spartans and Venetians. It is worth noting that the racial exploits for Humans has changed. The Explorer exploit has been dropped and has been replaced by the Learners exploit, which allows Humans to choose three Universal exploits when creating your character. Normally, starting races must choose two Universal exploits, one of which must be Aim or Feint. Adding extra exploits is always a good thing in my opinion.
The book is fully coloured with illustrations of all the races featured. Running to 60 pages, it was written by Russ Morrissey. For N.E.W. players, I would rate this as an essential purchase.
Great review Bryan, and a handy book by the sound of it, as too many systems have humans as the focus
ReplyDeleteMany thanks, Dave. I like sci-fi systems that have lots of alien races.
DeleteAnother informative review, Bryan, which clearly helps expand the "W.O.I.N." universe you enjoy so much. I was particularly intrigued by the Mechanoid Races, which I don't think you see everyday in a sci-fi setting. Good stuff.
ReplyDeleteThank you most kindly, Simon. I agree with you about Mechanoid Races. Indeed in my "The Ace of Spades Campaign" the Celeste android character is the most mysterious crew member and is a lot of fun to play.
DeleteThere certainly seems to be a lot of background material for this concept.
ReplyDeleteThanks, John, and you're absolutely right about the amount of background material. There's a lot to it.
DeletePlenty there to be keeping you busy Bryan, that's not to say you don't be busy enough already :)
ReplyDeleteAppreciated, Frank, and yes, I am incredibly busy. I wish there were more hours in the day!
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