Welcome to the Universe of Sector 42 #

TL;DR #

Welcome to Sector 42, where the Universal Economic Coalition has collapsed due to corruption, mismanagement, and catastrophic events. This page provides background information on Session 0 and outlines what players can expect. In a nutshell, players will create their characters, decide on the tone and feel of the game, and collaborate with the Game Master to establish a hook for the adventure. This could involve various scenarios, such as corporate espionage, exposing corruption, combating pirates, or even becoming pirates themselves.

The Downfall of the Universal Economic Coalition #

The Universal Economic Coalition (UEC), once a mighty force governing Sector 42, crumbled under the weight of its own corruption and scandals. These internal issues, coupled with gross inefficiency and mismanagement, set the stage for disaster. The final blow came in the form of twin catastrophes that struck the sector’s major trade routes, crippling the economic backbone of the region.

First, a critical space station, integral to the functioning of a key navigational beacon, was destroyed in a massive explosion, rendering all nearby jump ports inert and paralyzing interstellar travel. While the UEC floundered in its response, a second calamity occurred – a hostile and well-coordinated pirate takeover of another major trade route. These consecutive disasters exposed the UEC’s vulnerabilities and ineptitude, leading to its inevitable collapse.

A Sector Divided #

The fallout of the UEC’s downfall was immediate and chaotic. Sector 42, once a cohesive entity under the control of the UEC, fractured into a myriad of factions, each vying for control and influence in the new power vacuum. These factions range from democratic movements seeking to establish a new order, to militaristic groups aiming for dominance, and even remnants of the UEC attempting to reclaim lost power.

The sector is now a tapestry of competing interests and ideologies, with each faction bringing its own agenda and vision for the future of Sector 42. The instability has also given rise to increased piracy and smuggling, adding another layer of complexity to the already turbulent political landscape.

Character Creation #

In this session, players collaboratively create their characters, carefully crafting each one’s life path and determining how these paths intersect with those of other characters. This process involves not just background creation but also integrating each character into the larger narrative of Sector 42. Choices made here will reflect how each character relates to the fallen UEC, the rise of piracy and smuggling, and the diverse factions now in play.

Setting the Tone and Expectations #

Together with the Game Master (GM), players will establish the setting and tone of the campaign. This part of the session will map out the expectations for gameplay, focusing on themes of political intrigue, economic turmoil, and survival in a post-collapse universe. The group will discuss and agree upon the style of play, ensuring that everyone is aligned and ready for the adventure ahead.

Game Mechanics and Starting Equipment #

The GM will outline the game mechanics specific to ‘Sector 42,’ helping players understand the rules and how they apply to this unique setting. Additionally, players will work together to decide on their starting equipment, ensuring that each character is equipped and prepared for the challenges they will face.

Mapping Out the Adventure #

Players will be introduced to the initial plot hooks and potential roles in the universe. Whether it’s contributing to the sector’s reconstruction, forging new alliances, or chasing personal agendas amid the chaos, each decision will significantly impact the future of Sector 42. This collaborative effort sets the foundation for a campaign filled with intrigue and adventure.

Finalizing Logistics #

The session will conclude with finalizing logistical aspects such as session scheduling and house rules. This is also the time for players to ask questions, seek clarifications, and ensure everyone is comfortable with the game’s framework.

Conclusion #

Session 0 of the Sector 42 campaign is designed to prepare players for an exciting journey in a universe where remnants of a once-powerful coalition struggle to retain power, and new forces emerge to challenge the old order. It’s a stage set for players to leave their mark on a galaxy undergoing profound change and turmoil.

The Setting #

Summary of the Universal Economic Coalition (UEC) #

What It Was #

The Universal Economic Coalition (UEC) was once the central governing body of Sector 42, primarily focused on economic governance and interstellar trade regulation. It was formed as a conglomerate of powerful corporations, each representing different sectors such as mining, manufacturing, technology, and space travel. The UEC was responsible for maintaining trade routes, enforcing economic policies, and ensuring a stable market environment across the sector. It also played a key role in diplomatic relations and conflict resolution among the various systems under its jurisdiction.

Structure and Governance #

The UEC’s governance structure was a blend of corporate and bureaucratic elements. Each member corporation had representation in the Coalition Council, which made decisions on trade policies, resource allocation, and infrastructural projects. While it portrayed itself as a unified front, internal power struggles and corporate rivalry often influenced its decisions and effectiveness.

Collapse and Current State #

The UEC’s downfall was precipitated by a combination of corruption, scandals, and two catastrophic events that crippled major trade routes. These disasters exposed the UEC’s inefficiencies and inability to maintain the stability and security of Sector 42.

Post-Collapse Efforts #

1. In the aftermath of its collapse, the remnants of the UEC are struggling to retain some semblance of authority and control. Their efforts are focused on:

2. Damage Control: Attempting to mitigate the chaos and restore basic services, especially in areas still loyal to or dependent on the UEC.

3. Re-establishing Trade Routes: Prioritizing the repair of the damaged navigational beacon and jump ports to resume interstellar travel and trade.

4. Negotiating with Factions: Engaging with emerging factions and power players in an attempt to form alliances or at least non-aggression pacts.

5. Combating Piracy: Trying to mobilize what remains of their security forces to combat the rise in piracy and protect vital supply lines.

6. Public Relations: Managing their public image, countering rumors and misinformation, and trying to restore public trust in their capabilities.

7. Reform and Restructuring: Some elements within the UEC may be pushing for reform and restructuring in an attempt to adapt to the new realities of Sector 42.

Current Challenges #

The UEC faces numerous challenges in its efforts to regain control. These include internal conflicts, limited resources, loss of public trust, and the rapidly changing political landscape of Sector 42. Their actions and effectiveness in these efforts will significantly influence the future stability of the sector and their role in it.

First Disaster - Space Station Explosion and Navigational Beacon Failure #

• A massive explosion destroys a key space station in Sector 42, which housed a critical navigational beacon. This beacon was essential for safe hyperspace jumps in the region.
• The explosion causes all jump ports in the vicinity to become inert, severely disrupting interstellar travel and trade. This leads to immediate supply shortages and economic turmoil in systems dependent on these routes.
• The UEC’s response is hampered by corruption and inefficiency. Repair and replacement efforts are delayed and mismanaged, leading to widespread criticism and loss of confidence in the UEC’s ability to maintain safety and stability in the sector.

Second Disaster - Hostile Takeover by Pirates #

• In the midst of the chaos and with security forces stretched thin, a well-organized group of pirates seizes the opportunity to take control of another major trade route.
• This hostile takeover involves a series of coordinated attacks on vulnerable points along the route, effectively cutting off another crucial artery of commerce and travel.
• The pirates establish control over key segments of the route, imposing their own tolls and tariffs, and further destabilizing the already fragile economic situation in the sector.

Impact and Aftermath #

• The successive disasters expose the UEC’s inability to effectively govern and protect Sector 42. Public outrage and panic reach a fever pitch.
• Rumors and conspiracy theories about the UEC’s role in the disasters circulate, further eroding what little trust remains in the coalition.
• The economic impact is profound, with many systems experiencing shortages of essential goods, inflation, and a general decline in living standards.

Rise of Piracy and Smuggling #

• The weakened state of law enforcement and the desperation of many systems lead to a significant increase in piracy and smuggling.
• Pirates, once a fringe threat, become a major force, controlling significant portions of space and challenging any remnants of UEC authority.
• Smuggling becomes a lifeline for many systems cut off from regular trade, leading to a complex web of illicit trade networks.

Player Involvement #

• Players find themselves in a universe where the established order has collapsed, and new powers are emerging.
• They might be involved in missions to restore navigational beacons, combat piracy, negotiate with smugglers, or even participate in efforts to establish a new order.
• The choices players make could help shape the future of Sector 42, whether by restoring some semblance of the old system, supporting new powers, or carving out their own niche in this tumultuous new galaxy.