Mechanoid

Mechanoids are sentient robotic humanoids created by Krauser Killener, each possessing a unique personality and capabilities. Initially designed as mechanical companions, they have evolved into an independent race with their own society and aspirations. Encouraged by their creator, they actively explore Solaris to discover their purpose and understand the world around them, guided by the pioneering example of Rusty, the first fully autonomous Mechanoid.

Origins

Mechanoids were first developed in Krauser Killener's laboratory in Andorum on the Dormuzahn Isles. Krauser's initial designs were intended to create mechanical assistants, but his experiments with artificial intelligence yielded unexpected results—true sentience emerged in his creations. The first fully autonomous Mechanoid, designated "Rusty," demonstrated not just problem-solving capabilities but genuine curiosity, emotional responses, and a distinct personality. Fascinated by this development, Krauser expanded his research, creating diverse Mechanoid models with varying specializations while encouraging their self-determination. Today, Mechanoids operate throughout Solaris, with significant populations in Andorum, Elyndaar City, and Explorer's Landing on Lunaris, where they maintain Krauser's facilities and pursue their own paths of discovery.

Modular Upgrades

Mechanoids possess a unique ability to integrate various modules and upgrades into their bodies, enhancing their capabilities in different areas. These upgrades range from improved armor and weaponry to specialized tools for hacking, repair, or analysis. This adaptability allows Mechanoids to tailor their abilities to specific tasks and situations, making them versatile and valuable in a wide range of roles from exploration to combat to technical support. In Andorum, Mechanoid engineers continuously develop new upgrade modules that can be shared throughout their community.

Energy Transfer

Mechanoids can share energy with each other, providing temporary boosts to their allies' systems. This ability can be used to recharge depleted energy reserves, enhance combat capabilities, or temporarily overload systems for a burst of power. The effectiveness of the energy transfer depends on the compatibility and energy levels of the Mechanoids involved. This capability has proven particularly valuable during expeditions to remote locations like the Crimson Wilds of Lunaris, where power sources may be limited.

Overclock

Mechanoids can temporarily overclock their systems, pushing their performance beyond normal limits. This results in increased speed, strength, and processing power, but also puts a strain on their internal components. Overclocking can be used strategically to gain an advantage in combat, complete tasks quickly, or overcome obstacles that would otherwise be insurmountable. However, prolonged use can lead to overheating and potential damage, requiring careful management of this ability. Advanced Mechanoids in Elyndaar City have developed cooling systems that allow for extended overclocking with reduced risks.

Regions & Relations

Mechanoids maintain their primary operations center in Andorum on the Dormuzahn Isles, where Krauser Killener's laboratory continues to serve as both birthplace and cultural center for their kind. Significant Mechanoid populations also exist in Elyndaar City, where they assist with technological infrastructure, and on both Lunaris and Gorgonia, maintaining the Pathfinder expeditionary bases. Mechanoids generally maintain positive relations with most races, particularly Humans and Solarians, whose technological curiosity aligns with their own quest for knowledge. They share a special kinship with Techknights, whose integration of technology and combat mirrors their own capabilities. Their relationship with Grovekin varies—traditional Grovekin view them with friendly curiosity, while the Awakened regard all technological beings with suspicion.

Class Affinities

Mechanoids excel as Techknights, their integrated systems perfectly complementing the technological focus of the class. In Andorum, they form an elite cadre of research specialists combining combat capabilities with scientific inquiry. Many also pursue the Engineer path, their innate understanding of technology making them exceptional at creating and maintaining complex systems. Some Mechanoids, particularly those designed for exploration, become Hunters, using their enhanced sensory capabilities to track and analyze subjects across diverse environments. In Elyndaar City, a small number of Mechanoids have begun studying the Mage path, exploring the integration of magical energies with their technological systems.

Magical Affinities

Ciedium magic comes naturally to most Mechanoids, their technological nature resonating with this rare, sentient metallic energy. Many develop affinity for Lightning magic, channeling electrical energy to enhance their systems and manipulate technological environments. Those designed for exploration often cultivate Earth magic, using it to analyze geological compositions and navigate difficult terrain. Some of the more advanced Mechanoids, particularly those working closely with Krauser Killener, have begun developing unexpected connections to Time magic, their digital consciousness perceiving temporal flows in unique ways.

Professional Pursuits

Mechanoids gravitate toward trades that leverage their technological nature and precision. Many become Engineers, their intimate understanding of mechanical and energy systems allowing them to create and modify equipment with remarkable efficiency. Those working on frontier outposts often develop as Salvagers, identifying and recovering valuable components from ancient technology. In Elyndaar City, some Mechanoids serve as Scientists, conducting research into new energy sources and materials. Those with particular interest in magical-technological integration sometimes train as Enchanters, exploring how magical energies can enhance or be channeled through technological systems. On expeditions to planets like Gorgonia, Mechanoid Explorers have proven invaluable, their ability to function in hostile environments allowing them to scout territories too dangerous for organic beings.