diff --git a/src/SUMMARY.md b/src/SUMMARY.md index 20b1e39d4d..1aa9a5f103 100644 --- a/src/SUMMARY.md +++ b/src/SUMMARY.md @@ -158,6 +158,7 @@ Space Station 14 - [Proposals]() - [Vulpkanin](en/space-station-14/character-species/proposals/vulpkanin.md) + - [Magnaliths](en/space-station-14/character-species/proposals/magnaliths.md) - [Combat](en/space-station-14/combat.md) - [PR Guidelines]() diff --git a/src/en/space-station-14/character-species/proposals/magnaliths.md b/src/en/space-station-14/character-species/proposals/magnaliths.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000000..05c1551682 --- /dev/null +++ b/src/en/space-station-14/character-species/proposals/magnaliths.md @@ -0,0 +1,148 @@ +| Designers | Implemented | GitHub Links | +|---|---------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| +| AugustSun, Coolsurf6 | :x: No | ----- | + +## Overview + +Magnaliths, as indicated by their name, are a rock-based species, emphasizing the traits commonly associated with geologic features and their formations. They are a resolute, but purposeful species, by nature of how they form and exist; while they are partially comprised of organic functions, such as respiration, metabolization and digestion, their emphasis is on their rocky composition. + +Their bodies maintain a degree of independent internal and external pressure via a magnetic field, which also helps bind their mineral-based exterior to their more sensitive, fleshy interiors. Their diet of minerals and common structural materials provide the necessary upkeep to maintain this field. + + +### Native Environments + +Magnaliths primarily habit celestial bodies that can best be described as "primordial", or in the early stages of their formation. Because many of these celestial bodies do not have a strong enough magnetic field to maintain a consistent atmosphere, Magnaliths can spend a great deal of their lives dormant, existing in a torpor state. However, because Magnaliths produce a stronger internal magnetic field than other species, they are capable of producing a stronger, hyperlocalized magnetic field when in close proximity to one another. + +These magnetic fields trap pressurized Nitrogen, required for functions also served by respiration. When inhabiting low-pressure environments, Magnaliths instead consume significant quantities of nitrogen-infused solid matter, after which they will re-enter their torpor state as they digest. While in this torpor state, Magnaliths still emanate their magnetic fields; over time, after a pocket of atmosphere forms in their inhabited area, activating their respiratory systems and awakening them from their torpor state. + +### Culture and Society + +The congregation of Magnaliths to form more habitable environments results in natural, tribal-based societies, with the only hierarchy being ultimately determined by the strength of the magnetic field produced by each Magnalith. Even then, Magnaliths value stability and the long-term fostering of a singular, cohesive culture. Should Magnalith tribes become adjacent to one another, the most common result is a "cultural osmosis", where tribes assimilate into a singular society. + +Magnaliths prefer to avoid conflict, both internal and external. In the extremely rare case of internal division, this results in the aggrieved parties separating from one another, distinguished by unique magnetic fields for each tribe within proximity. When in conflict with external societies, Magnalith tribes prefer to outlast their foes, taking an extreme defensive posture and relying on their abnormally-resilient physiology to maintain their presence. However, because Magnalith tribes typically inhabit environments that are extremely hostile to most other species, external conflicts usually manifest as mining teams encroaching upon their inhabited areas. + +Interplanetary migration for Magnalith societies originated as the result of natural phenomena, as well. Because Magnaliths inhabit planets with little to no magnetosphere or atmosphere, events like volcanic eruptions or celestial collisions (i.e. meteors) can dislodge dormant Magnalith tribes from their original planet, sending them on a journey through space. This method of migration is how Magnaliths were initially discovered by other societies, and is still utilized in more remotely-inhabited parts of space. + +When first discovered, Magnaliths were persecuted by space-faring prospecting companies. These companies lobbied heavily to deny them the status and protections afforded sapient species, instead seeking to categorize them as livestock. However, as more diplomatic overtures were made from both Magnaliths and space-faring governments, they achieved recognition as a sapient species. While many regard this event as entirely driven by compassion, pragmatism played a quieter, but much larger factor. + +Due to their naturally-occurring qualities, governments saw the potential of integrating Magnaliths into interstellar society as a significant cost-saving measure. As a result, Magnaliths have established an economic niche for themselves, specifically for terraforming, surveying and colonization initiatives due to their high durability and their ability to naturally form atmopsheres. + +### Visuals + +Being a mineral-based species, Magnaliths exhibit the physical properties of geological formations. Ore veins, mineral outcroppings, and various crystallizations give the appearance of a boulder come to life. Base colors tend to gravitate towards more muted or matte tones, but these heavily contrast with the prominence of the aforementioned accents and markings, which often have bright and dazzling colors. + +Magnaliths do not have "eyes" in the human sense of eyes, but feature crystal nodes that act as focal points for visual data. These crystal nodes are distinct from the rest of the form, absorbing light and translating said light into a coherent image, similar to how fiber optics work. + +Because their external appearance is so heavily comprised of terran elements, they sport a distinct silhouette that makes them easily identifiable, even in low-light conditions. In contrast to more traditionally-organic species, Magnaliths have much more rigid outlines and shaping. + + + + +### Core Concept: Slow and Steady + +**Fundamentally, Magnaliths are a slow and deliberate species.** This affects most of, if not all facets of their existence: Their movement is slower, they breathe slower, metabolize food and chemicals slower, and even their blood moves slower, just as a few examples. + +Magnaliths contrast with most other species by trading speed for durability, applied in a variety of manners that offer contextual strengths and weaknesses. This change in dynamic also impacts a number of common scenarios, producing equally-contrasting results. + + + +###### GAMEPLAY REASONING / IMPACT: + - **Reasoning -** All currently-available upstream species have relatively similar needs and behaviors, with deviations that distinguish each species from one another (including their abilities). However, while many species feature specific utilities or direct benefits, Magnalith features are more innate/passive, affecting every aspect of how the species exists. + - **Impact -** The inherently slower functions of Magnaliths change how players can approach a situation. It forces them to reconsider the norms they've developed about specific gameplay loops, common scenarios and mechanical applications. + +**The following is an anticipated breakdown of how Magnaliths adapt to the central departments of the station.** +- **Security:** The slower movement of Magnaliths makes them susceptible to being outmaneuvered by an assailant or criminal; however, in situations that can be risky for other species, such as close-quarter confrontations, they have a significant advantage in comparison. In off-station scenarios, where gravity no longer applies, they gain even further advantage. +- **Cargo:** While Magnaliths inherently move slower than other species, they also feature a higher mass, which in turn allows them to move heavier objects faster than other species. In the context of operating as salvagers, their natural affinity towards spaceborne environments make them highly suitable for salvage operations. +- **Medical:** Magnaliths should be able to perform the same functions as other medical personnel, but may suffer in contexts where speed is essential to the function of the role (i.e. as paramedics). +- **Engineering:** Much of the risks associated with engineering are environmental, making Magnaliths a natural fit for these roles. Scenarios that involve extreme temperature ranges and pressures are some of the most commonly-associated dangers, which Magnaliths adapt well to. +- **Science:** Phenomena associated with anomalies and xenoarchaeology are typically elemental in nature, meaning Magnaliths are less prone to any lethal outcomes. However, there are still hazards that they are just as susceptible to as other species, and should not let their overconfidence in durability be their downfall. +- **As antagonists:** Owing to their slower pace overall, Magnaliths as antagonists must adapt to their mission circumstances. In areas of covert operation, Magnaliths may need to take more proactive measures to avoid detection, such as disguises or other methods of concealment instead of agility. In more combat-focused situations, they will best be served by playing to their natural strengths. The most common methods will likely be to maximize their durability, or to counteract their natural deficiencies (such as preferring zero-g engagements). + +--- + +### Biological Functions + + + +#### Respiration, pressure and temperature + +Magnaliths breathe nitrogen, and do so at a lower rate of respiration than other species. Despite this, Magnaliths breathe a higher volume of gas with each breath they take, meaning that they are naturally "deep breathers". + +Because Magnaliths can maintain their own internal and external pressures, they experience pressure changes at a slower rate. This allows them to better tolerate more extreme environments, such as outer space, though they may still die if exposed for too long. + +Similarly, the density of the Magnalith's mineral-based tissue translates to a slower change in body temperature, allowing Magnaliths to operate in environments of extreme heat or cold. However, like pressure changes, excessive heat or cold effects will last longer for Magnaliths. + +###### GAMEPLAY REASONING / IMPACT: + + - **Respiration:** The adjustment of respiratory function results in the same amount of gas being breathed as other species across a similar timeframe, but does so in a more "peak-y" fashion. Nitrogen was chosen as the respiratory gas, as the higher volume per breath necessitates a more-available gas to not constantly be gasping for breath in lower-density environments. + + **- Magnaliths breathe slower, but breathe more gas. They breathe Nitrogen.** + + - **Pressure:** Like many other aspects of Magnaliths, slower changes in body pressure mean that Magnaliths are able to tolerate lower-pressure or higher-pressure environments for a longer amount of time. However, this also means that when they cross the danger threshold for these environments, it takes longer for them to stabilize. + + **- Magnaliths experience pressure change at a slower rate than other species.** + + - **Temperature:** Operating on the same basis as pressure, Magnaliths can manage hotter or colder temperatures for a longer time. If not managed properly, though, they will experience the dangers of these adverse environments for a longer time than other species. This also means that fire stacks affect magnaliths + + **- Magnaliths experience temperature change at a slower rate than other species.** + +--- + +#### Metabolism + +Naturally, Magnaliths metabolize at a lower rate than other species, for better and for worse. Magnaliths are less-affected by dangerous chemicals, so things like poisons or intoxicants aren't as effective against them. However, this also means that beneficial chemicals are less beneficial for them than they would be for other species. + +Even Magnalith bloodstreams are slower-moving, both in terms of how much blood is lost in regular scenarios, and how long it takes to regain blood as a result of nutrition. + +###### GAMEPLAY REASONING / IMPACT: + - **Chemicals:** Magnaliths being chemical-resistant again leans into the overall concept of being inherently durable, while also not overly relying on your durability as a crutch (or otherwise knowing when it's worth putting yourself at greater risk). + - **Bloodstream:** Similarly, slower buildup of blood loss naturally allows them to endure more dangerous scenarios than most, but may be affected by blood loss for a longer amount of time as a result of these actions. + +--- + +#### Diet + +Magnaliths are capable of consuming and digesting elements in their most basic forms. Aboard a station, this is commonly found as basic building materials, such as metal, glass, plastic, and more. This also means they are capable of consuming items comprised of these materials, as well. + +###### GAMEPLAY REASONING / IMPACT: + - As a higher-mass species, it makes sense for them to require volumetrically-dense sustenance in order to provide satiation; water in and of itself is also a relatively basic liquid, and naturally slakes thirst adequately as a result. Additionally, these materials are readily available across the station, even in their more basic forms (such as ores or logs). + + **- Magnaliths primarily consume basic materials, such as metals, glass and ores.** + +--- + +### Body Composition and Features + +Magnaliths are commonly perceived as an amalgam of minerals, owing to the combination of a magnetic and biological bond. When Magnaliths are young, their bodies produce a smaller magnetic field, and thus, their dermis is more observable. This "skin", a flexible membrane with integrated ferric particles, is what initially bonds directly with the minerals that comprise their forms. + +At the core of the Magnaliths are their organs, which also feature partially-ferric compositions. These function like the organs of any organic species (save for the eyes), and the motion of both their processes and the blood flowing through them is what produces their magnetic fields. As they grow in size and age, each Magnalith produces a larger field, eventually becoming strong enough to attract the minerals necessary to cover their entire core. + +Magnaliths allow these rocks and metals to bear the brunt of environmental hazards, and as such, it is common for them to continuously bond with rocks and minerals to restore integrity to their protective rock shells. If given enough time, Magnaliths will use a heat source to bond minerals, effectively "welding" the rocks together. Some Magnaliths, particularly ones that work in confined spaces, will remove any excessive protrusions to minimize their bulkiness. + +When a Magnalith is injured, it will attempt to find a place of safety, immediately followed by a period of dormancy to let the injury heal. During this recovery period, the bodily functions slow down, reducing the strength of their magnetic field; as a result, should a tribal Magnalith get injured at the outer portions of a tribe, they will "rotate out" with another healthy Magnalith, allowing for their magnetic fields to compensate for their own. In the process of healing, Magnaliths will replace any damaged minerals, or otherwise cover areas that may expose their cores. + +Regarding locomotion and manipulation of objects, Magnaliths will harness their magnetic fields to produce movement via their mineral compositions. When necessary, Magnaliths will deliberately assimilate smaller minerals to form pseudo-"hands", controlling every part with their magnetic field. However, these more indirect forces are less precise than the motor functions of organisms with muscles and nervous systems. + +###### GAMEPLAY REASONING / IMPACT: + + - **Resistance to Blunt & Slash damage:** Magnaliths are an inherently durable species, owing to their dense exterior. This does mean that any further applications of damage resistances makes them highly survivable in combat scenarios, especially in close-quarters, but this advantage is offset by the fact that their durability is their only form of defense in most station-side engagements. + + **- Magnaliths have a [30-50%] resistance to slash damage, and a [10-25%] resistance to blunt damage.** + + - **Increased base health:** Going along the theme of being a more inherently durable species, an increase in health offers Magnalith players much more of a combat buffer than other species do. While they do not resist pierce damage, making them inherently more susceptible to get hit by gunfire, the increase in health allows them to bear the brunt of more damage without being immune to a focused assault. + + **- Magnaliths have [125-150%] the health of a base human.** + + - **Resistant to movement speed modifiers:** As said previously, Magnaliths are a high-mass species. In the sense of physics, this would require more force to move them faster, but also more force required to meaningfully slow them down. This keeps them in a much narrower band of minimum and maximum movement speeds than other species encounter. + + **- Magnalith move speed is 20% slower than an average human. Movement speed modifiers are [70-90%] less effective.** + + **- Magnaliths pull higher-mass objects faster than other species.** + + - **Fire stacks slower:** The rocky composition of Magnaliths means that fire takes a much longer time to affect them. Because this also affects them via temperature change, though, being on fire for too long will put them over the heat tolerance threshold, making them take burn damage over a longer period of time than other species. + + **- Fire stacks harm [30-50%] slower than normal.** + + - **Partially affected by structural damage:** Their mineral-based composition makes them adjacent to artificial structural integrity, rather than the more organic foundations of other species. This makes them susceptible to tools and weaponry specifically designed to demolish the harder, but more brittle mineral formations that Magnaliths feature. + + **- Magnaliths take [25-50%] of any structural damage a weapon causes**.