UFOpaedia - User contributions [en]

Cultural Influences on X-COM

2014-07-11T05:43:31Z

Arima:

= UFO =

The 1970s British TV series [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UFO_(TV_series) UFO]], produced by Gerry and Sylvia Anderson for ATV, is undoubtedly a major inspiration for the UFO: Enemy Unknown game. Set in the "near future" (1980!) it narrates the struggles of a secret, international, government-sponsored paramilitary organisation that is combating alien infiltration and terror.

For more information, see [[http://ufoseries.com/ UFO series homepage]].

== Organisation ==

The organisation is named SHADO, an acronym for Supreme Headquarters, Alien Defence Organisation, (by analogy with NATO and WW2 Allied military command acronyms). Established by a secret protocol of the UNSC, SHADO is a small organisation, answerable to government officials and a General, and subject to continual political pressure and interference, as well as disputes about funding.

== Bases ==

SHADO maintains at least one secret underground base in England (underneath a complex of film and television studios). SHADO also maintains a secret base on the moon, "Moonbase". SHADO wishes to expand its interceptor bases but is restricted by insufficient funding.

== Ranks and Command ==

The commanding officer of SHADO is an American ex-military officer, Ed Straker. He has the rank of Commander. While Commander Straker reports to a General, the General appears to work as the President of a mainstream civilian organisation, (the International Astrophysical Commission of the United Nations, acting as a front organisation for SHADO) and is not officially part of SHADO. The SHADO Commander has full discretion on projects and operations. The IAC board only has financial powers, and the power to appoint or dismiss the Commander - which must be by unanimous vote. The officer in charge of SHADO's Moonbase (usually a Colonel) is also referred to as a Commander. However he or she is clearly subordinate to the SHADO Commander, who is sometimes referred to as 'Supreme Commander'. There are also Colonels and Lieutenants in the SHADO hierarchy, many of whom formerly worked for national military organisations. There are also NCOs but no operatives with NCO ranks such as Sergeant are mentioned by name.
The impression given is of a small, close-knit organisation (quite possibly numbering no more than 255 paramilitary operatives and possibly much less).

== Surveillance and Interceptors ==

SHADO's defensive perimeter with the aliens is Earth orbit and the moon. Based out in space is an automated, artificial intelligence-controlled detection system called SID (Space Intruder Detector) which attempts to detect and track UFOs entering the solar system and approaching Earth. There are also ground based detection stations.

Primary interception is performed from Moonbase by manned spacecraft called Interceptors ( or "Moonbase Interceptors" ), operating in on-duty flights of 3. Interceptors are vectored against UFOs using target data from SID, either by the pilots or under telemetric control from Moonbase or SHADO HQ.

Interceptors are each armed with a single large nose-mounted nuclear rocket or missile with which to engage UFOs. This is a one-shot attack per Interceptor. There is a long recovery and rearming time for the Interceptors so if the 3 Interceptors all fail to destroy the UFO, interception has failed.

The probability of a hit and kill from 3 Interceptors is good, but frequently UFOs will still pass through the Moonbase Interceptor cordon either partially damaged or unscathed (or indeed slip through undetected). At this point SHADO's second line of defence comes in.

== Air Interception ==

SHADO operates at least one small, high performance interceptor aircraft called Sky One. This aircraft is a small stubby delta-winged single seat fighter armed with short range rapid-firing rocket pods. It has no guided missile armament. Air interception is seen as a last-ditch effort by SHADO and is possibly less effective than space interception, though is generally at an advantage as UFOs begin to deteriorate in earth's atmosphere.

Sky One is attached to the submarine known as Sky Diver, and essentially makes up the front portion of the sub.

== Submarine Operations ==

SHADO operates at least one advanced submarine, SkyDiver 1, similar to a slightly futuristic nuclear hunter/killer submarine. This vessel is crewed by SHADO personnel (in different uniforms, and female officers do not wear purple wigs) and is also used to investigate UFOs that have crashed or landed underwater. The submarine is comprised of two parts. The main body of the submarine, and Sky One.

SkyDiver's rated operating depth is around 1200m but it has survived exposure to depths of almost 2000m.

The Sky One interceptor aircraft is launched from the submarine whilst submerged, making Sky One arguably a kind of flying sub. However it is fair to say that SHADO's underwater operations are limited in comparison to ground operations. Oh well, maybe in the next war...

== Ground Operations ==

If UFOs pass through SHADO's air and space interception without being destroyed or detected, which happens quite frequently, SHADO ground forces will move to secure the crash site or landing site.

=== Weapons ===

SHADO troops are armed with selective-fire rifles that resemble a futuristic version of the contemporary NATO FN SLR, or perhaps a prototype of the SA80 small arm, and are also vaguely similar to the depiction of the X-COM Rifle. Troops are unarmoured, as was typical at the time - again similar to the initial X-COM forces.

SHADO use a man portable rocket launcher with an electronic-visual aiming system and reloadable rounds, very similar to the X-COM Rocket Launcher (though the rounds are smaller). The SHADO Rocket Launcher is capable (with a good hit) of disabling or destroying small UFOs, in this sense it is more powerful than its X-COM equivalent.

SHADO operatives also have advanced semi-automatic pistols at their disposal. These are more often used for covert work, rather than "battlefield" use.

A heavy, but man-portable high explosive pack (very similar to the X-COM High Explosive) is also used on occasion.

SHADO has tranquiliser rifles available but these are used on human targets and not known to be effective versus aliens.

Hand-held stun rods of some type are used by the aliens to capture human victims, but SHADO does not have a similar technology.

=== Transport and Vehicles ===

SHADO troops are transported tactically to UFO sites in tracked armoured personnel carriers called SHADO Mobiles. Strategically the Mobiles are flown into the crash / landing region on advanced-design jet cargo aircraft, called Transporters, but these aircraft are not V/TOL like the X-COM transports. SHADO also operates C/STOL supersonic transports (SSTs), and lunar modules which dock with air-breathing V/TOL aircraft for take off / landing from Earth. SHADO aircraft are flagged as "SHADAIR" - presumably a cover name.

=== Vehicle Weapons ===

Some SHADO Mobiles are armed with weapon systems such as multiple-launch rocket systems or autocannon / heavy machineguns.

== UFOs ==

UFOs are all (almost all?) of one standard type, a small metallic craft of standard "saucer" shape. They carry a small number of Aliens, probably similar to a Small or Medium Scout in UFO: Enemy Unknown.

UFOs maneuver at supralight speeds. They are tracked by SID at ranges on the order of 75 million miles from earth, typically moving at 8 times the speed of light (SOL), using highly specialised "Utronic" detection equipment developed for SHADO. In the vicinity of the Moon the UFOs decelerate to high sub-light speeds. (It's unclear how the Moonbase interceptor craft and weapons, both using some kind of reaction engine, are able to effectively engage spacecraft moving at such speeds. However the UFOs flight paths are highly predictable, so perhaps they have limited ability for lateral evasive action?).

The Earth's atmosphere forces the UFOs to slow down even further, to much slower speeds, allowing them to be intercepted by supersonic fighter aircraft. As in X-COM, UFOs are vulnerable to conventional explosive air to air missiles.

== Aliens ==

As in X-COM, aliens cannot survive long in Earth atmosphere, but unlike in X-COM they wear spacesuits when on Earth. The identity and appearance of the aliens is a mystery and uncovering it is a major objective of SHADO (see below). Some of the aliens have psionic powers and there may be multiple types of alien (races or perhaps just factions). Some of the aliens are humanoid and can impersonate, or pass for, or possess, humans. The aliens also act through human collaborators or puppets. As in X-COM, they attempt to subvert government officials and other public figures.

One known activity of the aliens is harvesting of human organs, and it is suggested that some of the humanoid aliens encountered by SHADO may actually be modified, controlled humans and not the actual aliens.

The aliens are more suited to the underwater environment of Earth, and build at least one base under Earth's seas.

=== Alien Weapons ===

Alien personal weapons seem to be normal firearms or at least projectile weapons of some type, with a slightly lower rate of fire compared to SHADO weapons. Unlike in X-COM the alien personal weapons are not noticeably superior to human weapons.

Alien UFOs are sometimes equipped with an energy weapon of some kind, possibly a laser cannon or plasma cannon.

== SHADO Mission and Objectives ==

On a day to day basis SHADO detects, engages and destroys / secures UFOs and individual aliens encroaching on Earth. It also foils alien plots and schemes on Earth (and the Moon!), using SHADO operatives working undercover.

SHADO must also struggle to ensure it receives sufficient funding to meet its objectives, and to ensure the correct priorities are set by its funders, and that the support of funders continues.

Longer term, SHADO seeks to understand and discover alien intentions, capabilities, and origins, to correctly assess and respond to the alien threat, on behalf of the Earth. The aliens are highly mysterious and discovering information about them is key to SHADO. Capture of specimens, live aliens, or even communication with them, is a highly important objective. The intentions of the aliens remain one of the biggest mysteries. Learning the origin of the aliens, or their staging area for attacks, is also highly important.

== Psionics ==

The aliens show some use of what appear to be subtle (non-physical-affecting) psionic capabilities such as telepathy and mental influence or mind control. This is similar to XCom. Very rare humans (not SHADO operatives) are also shown to have similar abilities, though perhaps not as powerful. There is no physical technology associated with psionics - no Psi Amps etc. There are intensive psychometric test sessions that are used for screening SHADO operatives for mental weakness, and to detect alien mental influence or control after alien contact - perhaps similar to the Psi Labs concept.

One episode, The Psycho Bombs, features humans that are taken under the mind influence of the aliens to infiltrate and destroy SHADO installations. In addition to the mind control, they gain superhuman strength and are turned into bombs that detonate when they come into contact with high voltage electricity.

== Technology ==

While investigating alien technology and motives is a key objective of SHADO, unlike in XCom there is no noticeable technological advance gained by SHADO, with or without analysing alien technology. Apart from the Utronic modules (see above) which allow SHADO to detect UFOs, there are few if any advances in SHADO equipment, and the few examples of advances come from research in the wider technology community of Earth, not from SHADO efforts. For example, SHADO makes use of newly available long range spacecraft to try to gather intelligence on the alien origins. Arguably this is more realistic than in Enemy Unknown.

== Victory ==

As just noted, SHADO attempts to send a newly designed unmanned long range spacecraft on a mission back along the departure trajectory of a UFO (after first deliberately allowing the UFO to escape), in an attempt to obtain reconnaisance information on the UFO base or homeworld. This is roughly analogous to the Mars mission in Enemy Unknown (or perhaps the research effort that unlocks it). However, the SHADO mission fails due to a technical problem, at great cost to SHADO in money and lost credibility/prestige.

= Threshold =

The US television series ''Threshold'', broadcast in the 2000s, is said to have certain similarities with X-COM. It concerns a secret organisation dedicated to investigating and combating an alien threat which is concealed from the public.

= Timothy Good/Robert Lazar =

In 1989 Bob Lazar claimed to have worked as a scientist from 1988 to 1989 in a governmental secret project at the infamous Area 51 where he saw crashed UFOs and an exotic [[Elerium|element-115]] which possessed anti-gravity properties.
For more information, check Wikipedia's [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bob_Lazar article].
Bob Lazar's descriptions were published in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Timothy_Good Timothy Good's] ''Alien Liaison'' book. If you are interested in reading about some very intriguing UFO cases (based upon official released documents) check his books, especially ''Alien Liaison'' and ''Beyond Top Secret'' (they were also most likely influences for UFO Defense).

= Invaders From Mars =

Another 1950's science fiction B-movie. Quoting from the Wikipedia's [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Day_the_Earth_Stood_Still_(1951_film) article] on it ''Inside they find a Martian, mostly a large head with strange tentacles, encased in a glassy sphere. The Martian mastermind is served by tall, green, silent humanoid "mutants"''. Coincidence that it [[Muton|sounds]] [[Cydonia_or_Bust|familiar]]?

= Branton Files =

The Branton Files are a set of conspiracy theories which involved the [[Sectoid|Greys]] and the [[Snakemen|Reptilian]] alien races and an ongoing subvert invasion of Earth by aliens. A link to the documents can be found [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Branton_Files here]

= Starship Troopers =

Power armor in science fiction was first popularized by Robert [Heinlein's ''http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Starship_Troopers Starship Troopers]
military science fiction novel. The plot regards Earth defending itself and its colonies from a hostile insectoid alien race, which has a hive mentality and is ruled by 'Brains'.
book

= Online UFO Culture of the early 1990s =

There were plenty of files going around BBS servers at the time. You can read those files at the [http://www.textfiles.com/ufo/ www.textfiles/ufo] site.

= TFTD & Lovecraft =

The author of the literary universe of the Cthulu Mythos and other literary horror works had a deep influence on [[TFTD]]:
* [[T'leth]] and the mood tone of TFTD are inspired of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cthulhu Mythos Cthulhu Mythos]. Cthulus is described an extraterrestrial monstrous entity that is asleep on the depths of oceans and waiting for the proper star alignment to be brought to life and impose its evil rule on Earth. The UFOPedia's entry for the final mission even has a reference of T'leth as ''a Lovecraftian nightmare''.
* For complete references to the influence of Lovecraft on TFTD check Wikipedia's [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_X-COM:_Terror_from_the_Deep_races Terror from the Deep races] page.

= The Kraken Wakes =

Science fiction book written by John Wyndham concerning an alien invasion that comes from the oceans. More info [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Kraken_Wakes here].

= Lobster Man From Mars =

There's a 1989 comedy/horror move featuring a well known [[Lobstermen|Lobster monster]] of [[TFTD]], more info available [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lobster_Man_From_Mars here]. Might be a coincidence on the name, might not...

= Invasion of the Body Snatchers =

The Micronoid Aggregate, which is the true antagonist of the X-COM series, was possibly based on the Pod People from the 1956 Film, Invasion of the Body Snatchers. They are both Extraterrestrial Parasites that depend on the assimilation of other species and the consumption of their resources for their own survival.

= Judge Dredd =

The physical setting of Judge Dredd is a dystopian megalopolis city-state called "Mega-City One" which is ruled by the Justice Department.
Street Judges are the Elite Police force that patrols and defends Mega-City One from any and all threats.
They are armed with a standard issue series of handguns known as the "Lawgiver".

=See Also=
*[[Sightings in other fandoms]]
*[[Realistic Equivalents]]
*[[Rank]]
*[[Craft]]
*[[Weapons]]
*[[Equipment]]
*[[UFOs]]
*[[Alien Life Forms|Aliens]]

[[Category:Enemy Unknown/UFO Defense]]

Realistic Equivalents

2012-03-17T09:36:01Z

Arima: /* Craft Armaments */

Realistic equivalents from military and other sources, to add impact to your fanfiction.

== [[Weapons]] ==

*[[Rifle]] - The advanced [http://remtek.com/arms/hk/mil/g36/g36.htm HK G36] was discussed but it could really be any modern battle rifle. For example, the older, heavier 7.62mm H&K G3, FN FAL, M14. The game graphics resemble an H&K or FN (and the 20 rd magazine would be typical of those rifles). But more likely, given the relatively low hitting power (compared to the Pistol), a lower calibre burst-mode assault rifle like the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M4_carbine 5.56mm M4] with a 20-rd STANAG magazine (rather than the more typical 30-rd).

*[[Pistol]] - SOCOM use .45 ACP, aka [http://remtek.com/arms/hk/civ/mark23/mark23.htm HK MK23]. Very similar to the game pistol in magazine capacity and power (compared to the game rifle, anyway).

*[[Auto-Cannon]] - The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/XM29_OICW XM29] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/XM25 XM25] semi-automatic 20mm grenade launcher projects underway in the late 1990s could possibly have delivered prototypes to XCom - prototypes modified to enable burst mode and increased-size (rotary) magazine. Another candidate would be a lighter version of the 12-rd [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hawk_MM-1 Hawk MM-1] revolver grenade launcher, modified for burst mode. Or perhaps XCom tapped Russian quartermasters for the selective-fire 30mm [http://world.guns.ru/grenade/gl22-e.htm AGS-30] grenade launcher, brand new in 1999, a massive weapon but just about man-portable with 29 rounds. With only 14 rds loaded, maybe a strong soldier could fire from the hip.

*[[Heavy Cannon]] - [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Milkor_MGL MGL-MK1], 6-shot revolver 40mm [http://world.guns.ru/grenade/gl14-e.htm grenade launcher], with HE, AP, and IN grenades. See also Russia's [http://world.guns.ru/grenade/gl16-e.htm RG-6 (6G30)]. Another alternative is the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barrett_XM109 XM109] anti-materiel weapon, firing 25mm grenades, with an extended 6-rd magazine.

*[[Rocket Launcher]] - The 84mm [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carl_Gustav_recoilless_rifle Carl Gustav] [http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/ground/m3-maws.htm (M3 MAAWS)] or 83.5mm [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shoulder-launched_Multipurpose_Assault_Weapon MK153 SMAW] reloadable squad-level assault rocket launchers.

*Laser weapons - no modern equivalent. [http://www.cndyorks.gn.apc.org/yspace/articles/battlelaser.htm General Electric]?

*Plasma weapons - here are a few [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plasma_rifle promising theories], especially [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plasma_channel "plasma channels".]

== [[Craft Armaments]] ==

*[[Cannon]] - The M61 20mm Vulcan was the standard air to air cannon of the period. The more advanced Mauser BK-27 27mm cannon is perhaps a closer equivalent.

*[[Stingray]] - The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AIM-7_Sparrow AIM-7C/D Sparrow] has the closest equivalent range at 32km.

*[[Avalanche]] - The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AIM-120_AMRAAM AIM-120D AMRAAM] has the closest equivalent range at 64km.

*[[D.U.P. Head]] Torpedo - [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Depleted_uranium Depleted Uranium] has been successfully used in Military Applications as a material for Tank Armor and Armor-Piercing Munitions. However, the use of Depleted Uranium has not gone without controversy as it is a toxic metal that has detrimental long-term effects on both human health and the earth's environment.

== Equipment & Explosives ==

*[[Medi-Kit]] - Stimulants and painkillers aside, [http://www.hemcon.com/ Chitosan] battlefield bandages clot severe bleeding wounds instantly. (Secret ingredients: ground shrimp shells and vinegar. From Slashdot.) Also [http://www.simplerlife.com/quikclot.html QuikClot]. No need for nanites! Stimulants - In real life the Air Force gives its pilots amphetamines in order to keep them awake, I'm sure that the medi-kit would use something similar.

*[[Electro-flare]] - Invented because burning flares would set fires. Used as [http://www.uai.ca/sales/images/meprolight/electroflare.htm emergency road markers] or [http://www.uai.ca/sales/images/bartan/lightgrenade.htm Electric Light Grenade]

*[[Grenade]] - Standard M67 fragmentation grenade. Note the nearest thing to our timer is "cook-off" time. Electronic fuses are possible and reliable.

*[[Proximity Grenade]] - no equivalent. Claymore tripwires and ultrasonic sensors are possible. [http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/land/slam.htm "SLAM Mine"] appeared in Splinter Cell as the Wall Mine.

*[[High Explosive]] - M183, 20lb C4 satchel charges.
*[[Stun Bomb]] - Possibly an advanced version of [http://www.pepperball.com/faqs.asp Pepperballs]. Other than the fact that the stun bomb causes an explosion which knocks units UNCONSCIOUS, and effects units that do not possess eyes or respiratory systems... even inorganic units for that matter. Anyhow, this is an item of alien technology, and should not have an earth equivalent.
*[[Stun Rod]] - Cattle prod or Taser. Not much call for this item in real life since Tasers, Rubber Bullets and Tranquiliser Darts have better range.
*[[Power Suit]] - has arrived! The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HAL_5 Hybrid Assistive Limb] is available for rent in Japan for $1500 a month. All that is missing are the [[Alien Alloys]] to reinforce it and a [[UFO Power Source]] to power it for extended periods of time. The US' SARCOS Experiments ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sJ4J69EEpu4 ) also seem a likely case.

== Vehicles & Armament ==

*[[Tank/Cannon]] - M242 Chain Gun, 25mm, [http://www.sfu.ca/casr/101-m242.htm "Bushmaster"] (modified for single shot) mounted on [http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/ground/talon.htm "Talon"] robot chassis.

Or something larger, like an [http://www.magnatrac.com/ electric mini bulldozer].

*[[Tank/Rocket Launcher]] - [http://www.inetres.com/gp/military/infantry/flame/M202.html M202 "Flash" Quad Launcher], 66mm. (2 per turret @ 4 shots each) Originally developed to disperse incendiaries but fits M-72 LAW rounds, apparently.

*[[Interceptor]] fighter - USAF Lockheed [http://www.geocities.com/nicscics/YF22.htm F-22 Raptor] scheduled for release 2004 will replace the F-15. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/F-35_Lightning_II F-35 Lightning II] hit production 2006.

*[[Firestorm]] wingless aircraft - possibly the (as of 2009) experimental [http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=worlds-first-flying-saucer Wingless Electromagnetic Air Vehicle] under development at NASA. Movement and steering is done through an aerial version of magnetohydrodynamics, using charged plasma to repel air away from the craft's surface into the opposite direction - essentially an aircraft with no wings or moving parts. Due to the nature of the propulsion system, it would be unable to function in space though. Lead researcher confirmed the prototype's shape to be saucer.

*[[Skyranger]] transport - [http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dornier_Do_31 DO-31 VSTOL Transporter], [http://www.aeronautics.ru/archive/vvs/an72-01.htm Anotov AN-72] (Cadmus) or [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V-22_Osprey|Osprey CV-22] have the right size and range.

The german Do-31 concept was intended as a combat zone transporter carrying up to 36 fully equipped troops over a mission radius of about 900 km. It had the ability of taking off and landing vertically with the help of wing mounted engine pods and was able to land on unprepared surfaces. Two flying prototypes were built in Germany during the 1960s.

"Payload considerations have also been a sore point with the CV-22. Planners will have to take into consideration its reduced cabin volume and lift capacity. Not only does it carry fewer troops (18 vs 27), it is also incapable of transporting any of the armored, wheeled vehicles currently used by SOF teams. Procurement of a new vehicle is still pending..."
CV-22 Tiltrotor Osprey compared to Pavelow helicopter in Special Forces deployments, 1 June 1998. Could that new vehicle be [[Heavy Weapons Platforms|HWP]]-sized?

== Unit size, speed, game turn length, etc. ==

See Danial's interesting [[User_talk:Danial|page]] on various game measurements compared to real life. ''(If anyone wants to dive into this deeper, make a new page, copy his stuff over, and have a link at the top of the new page giving kudos back to Danial's page... due to the fact it's '''his''' page, it's not really a place for public revision.)''

There is also a [[Talk:Craft|discussion]] taking place on the speeds of aircraft and UFOs.

== Elerium-115 ==

After solving both the [[wikipedia:Barometric equation|Barometric equation]], the [[wikipedia:Drag formula|Drag formula]] and [[wikipedia:Einstein|Einsteins]] [[wikipedia:Mass-energy equivalence|mass-energy equivalence]] equation we arrive at the mass of a unit of Elerium-115 being approximately 2.13 grams.

Terror Ships have 4 reactors with 50 units of Elerium-115 each. If all the E-115 in the reactor detonated at once, it would have an explosive force of about 2.3 megatons. This value is almost exactly the size of two [[wikipedia:B83 nuclear bomb|US B83 thermonuclear devices]] at their maximum yield. (It is highly unlikely that 100% of the E-115 in the reactor would detonate in this way we would need to assume a figure for the amount of E-115 that goes into an uncontrolled reaction - or estimate the amount based on the displayed blast radius.)

''What if the reactor's are 99% efficient (as stated in the UFOpaedia) because to achieve nearly complete reaction of Elerium requires a certain catalyst? That would also explain why the Elerium in the reactors didn't detonate with such force, the alien Engineers having removed the catalyst to prevent the unstable reaction." -[[User:Amitakartok|amitakartok]]

There are some interesting armchair conjectures on the power contained in Elerium, both on the [[Elerium-115#How_much_Elerium_is_.E2.80.9E1_Elerium.E2.80.9C.3F|Elerium-115]] page, and on its [[Talk:Elerium-115|Discussion]] page.

Realistic Equivalents

2012-03-17T09:33:52Z

Arima: /* Craft Armaments */

Realistic equivalents from military and other sources, to add impact to your fanfiction.

== [[Weapons]] ==

*[[Rifle]] - The advanced [http://remtek.com/arms/hk/mil/g36/g36.htm HK G36] was discussed but it could really be any modern battle rifle. For example, the older, heavier 7.62mm H&K G3, FN FAL, M14. The game graphics resemble an H&K or FN (and the 20 rd magazine would be typical of those rifles). But more likely, given the relatively low hitting power (compared to the Pistol), a lower calibre burst-mode assault rifle like the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M4_carbine 5.56mm M4] with a 20-rd STANAG magazine (rather than the more typical 30-rd).

*[[Pistol]] - SOCOM use .45 ACP, aka [http://remtek.com/arms/hk/civ/mark23/mark23.htm HK MK23]. Very similar to the game pistol in magazine capacity and power (compared to the game rifle, anyway).

*[[Auto-Cannon]] - The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/XM29_OICW XM29] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/XM25 XM25] semi-automatic 20mm grenade launcher projects underway in the late 1990s could possibly have delivered prototypes to XCom - prototypes modified to enable burst mode and increased-size (rotary) magazine. Another candidate would be a lighter version of the 12-rd [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hawk_MM-1 Hawk MM-1] revolver grenade launcher, modified for burst mode. Or perhaps XCom tapped Russian quartermasters for the selective-fire 30mm [http://world.guns.ru/grenade/gl22-e.htm AGS-30] grenade launcher, brand new in 1999, a massive weapon but just about man-portable with 29 rounds. With only 14 rds loaded, maybe a strong soldier could fire from the hip.

*[[Heavy Cannon]] - [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Milkor_MGL MGL-MK1], 6-shot revolver 40mm [http://world.guns.ru/grenade/gl14-e.htm grenade launcher], with HE, AP, and IN grenades. See also Russia's [http://world.guns.ru/grenade/gl16-e.htm RG-6 (6G30)]. Another alternative is the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barrett_XM109 XM109] anti-materiel weapon, firing 25mm grenades, with an extended 6-rd magazine.

*[[Rocket Launcher]] - The 84mm [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carl_Gustav_recoilless_rifle Carl Gustav] [http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/ground/m3-maws.htm (M3 MAAWS)] or 83.5mm [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shoulder-launched_Multipurpose_Assault_Weapon MK153 SMAW] reloadable squad-level assault rocket launchers.

*Laser weapons - no modern equivalent. [http://www.cndyorks.gn.apc.org/yspace/articles/battlelaser.htm General Electric]?

*Plasma weapons - here are a few [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plasma_rifle promising theories], especially [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plasma_channel "plasma channels".]

== [[Craft Armaments]] ==

*[[Cannon]] - The M61 20mm Vulcan was the standard air to air cannon of the period. The more advanced Mauser BK-27 27mm cannon is perhaps a closer equivalent.

*[[Stingray]] - The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AIM-7_Sparrow AIM-7C/D Sparrow] has the closest equivalent range at 32km.

*[[Avalanche]] - The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AIM-120_AMRAAM AIM-120D AMRAAM] has the closest equivalent range at 64km.

*[[D.U.P Head]] Torpedo - Depleted Uranium has been successfully used in Military Applications as a material for Tank Armor and Armor-Piercing Munitions. However, the use of Depleted Uranium has not gone without controversy as it is a toxic metal that has detrimental long-term effects on both human health and the earth's environment.

== Equipment & Explosives ==

*[[Medi-Kit]] - Stimulants and painkillers aside, [http://www.hemcon.com/ Chitosan] battlefield bandages clot severe bleeding wounds instantly. (Secret ingredients: ground shrimp shells and vinegar. From Slashdot.) Also [http://www.simplerlife.com/quikclot.html QuikClot]. No need for nanites! Stimulants - In real life the Air Force gives its pilots amphetamines in order to keep them awake, I'm sure that the medi-kit would use something similar.

*[[Electro-flare]] - Invented because burning flares would set fires. Used as [http://www.uai.ca/sales/images/meprolight/electroflare.htm emergency road markers] or [http://www.uai.ca/sales/images/bartan/lightgrenade.htm Electric Light Grenade]

*[[Grenade]] - Standard M67 fragmentation grenade. Note the nearest thing to our timer is "cook-off" time. Electronic fuses are possible and reliable.

*[[Proximity Grenade]] - no equivalent. Claymore tripwires and ultrasonic sensors are possible. [http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/land/slam.htm "SLAM Mine"] appeared in Splinter Cell as the Wall Mine.

*[[High Explosive]] - M183, 20lb C4 satchel charges.
*[[Stun Bomb]] - Possibly an advanced version of [http://www.pepperball.com/faqs.asp Pepperballs]. Other than the fact that the stun bomb causes an explosion which knocks units UNCONSCIOUS, and effects units that do not possess eyes or respiratory systems... even inorganic units for that matter. Anyhow, this is an item of alien technology, and should not have an earth equivalent.
*[[Stun Rod]] - Cattle prod or Taser. Not much call for this item in real life since Tasers, Rubber Bullets and Tranquiliser Darts have better range.
*[[Power Suit]] - has arrived! The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HAL_5 Hybrid Assistive Limb] is available for rent in Japan for $1500 a month. All that is missing are the [[Alien Alloys]] to reinforce it and a [[UFO Power Source]] to power it for extended periods of time. The US' SARCOS Experiments ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sJ4J69EEpu4 ) also seem a likely case.

== Vehicles & Armament ==

*[[Tank/Cannon]] - M242 Chain Gun, 25mm, [http://www.sfu.ca/casr/101-m242.htm "Bushmaster"] (modified for single shot) mounted on [http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/ground/talon.htm "Talon"] robot chassis.

Or something larger, like an [http://www.magnatrac.com/ electric mini bulldozer].

*[[Tank/Rocket Launcher]] - [http://www.inetres.com/gp/military/infantry/flame/M202.html M202 "Flash" Quad Launcher], 66mm. (2 per turret @ 4 shots each) Originally developed to disperse incendiaries but fits M-72 LAW rounds, apparently.

*[[Interceptor]] fighter - USAF Lockheed [http://www.geocities.com/nicscics/YF22.htm F-22 Raptor] scheduled for release 2004 will replace the F-15. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/F-35_Lightning_II F-35 Lightning II] hit production 2006.

*[[Firestorm]] wingless aircraft - possibly the (as of 2009) experimental [http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=worlds-first-flying-saucer Wingless Electromagnetic Air Vehicle] under development at NASA. Movement and steering is done through an aerial version of magnetohydrodynamics, using charged plasma to repel air away from the craft's surface into the opposite direction - essentially an aircraft with no wings or moving parts. Due to the nature of the propulsion system, it would be unable to function in space though. Lead researcher confirmed the prototype's shape to be saucer.

*[[Skyranger]] transport - [http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dornier_Do_31 DO-31 VSTOL Transporter], [http://www.aeronautics.ru/archive/vvs/an72-01.htm Anotov AN-72] (Cadmus) or [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V-22_Osprey|Osprey CV-22] have the right size and range.

The german Do-31 concept was intended as a combat zone transporter carrying up to 36 fully equipped troops over a mission radius of about 900 km. It had the ability of taking off and landing vertically with the help of wing mounted engine pods and was able to land on unprepared surfaces. Two flying prototypes were built in Germany during the 1960s.

"Payload considerations have also been a sore point with the CV-22. Planners will have to take into consideration its reduced cabin volume and lift capacity. Not only does it carry fewer troops (18 vs 27), it is also incapable of transporting any of the armored, wheeled vehicles currently used by SOF teams. Procurement of a new vehicle is still pending..."
CV-22 Tiltrotor Osprey compared to Pavelow helicopter in Special Forces deployments, 1 June 1998. Could that new vehicle be [[Heavy Weapons Platforms|HWP]]-sized?

== Unit size, speed, game turn length, etc. ==

See Danial's interesting [[User_talk:Danial|page]] on various game measurements compared to real life. ''(If anyone wants to dive into this deeper, make a new page, copy his stuff over, and have a link at the top of the new page giving kudos back to Danial's page... due to the fact it's '''his''' page, it's not really a place for public revision.)''

There is also a [[Talk:Craft|discussion]] taking place on the speeds of aircraft and UFOs.

== Elerium-115 ==

After solving both the [[wikipedia:Barometric equation|Barometric equation]], the [[wikipedia:Drag formula|Drag formula]] and [[wikipedia:Einstein|Einsteins]] [[wikipedia:Mass-energy equivalence|mass-energy equivalence]] equation we arrive at the mass of a unit of Elerium-115 being approximately 2.13 grams.

Terror Ships have 4 reactors with 50 units of Elerium-115 each. If all the E-115 in the reactor detonated at once, it would have an explosive force of about 2.3 megatons. This value is almost exactly the size of two [[wikipedia:B83 nuclear bomb|US B83 thermonuclear devices]] at their maximum yield. (It is highly unlikely that 100% of the E-115 in the reactor would detonate in this way we would need to assume a figure for the amount of E-115 that goes into an uncontrolled reaction - or estimate the amount based on the displayed blast radius.)

''What if the reactor's are 99% efficient (as stated in the UFOpaedia) because to achieve nearly complete reaction of Elerium requires a certain catalyst? That would also explain why the Elerium in the reactors didn't detonate with such force, the alien Engineers having removed the catalyst to prevent the unstable reaction." -[[User:Amitakartok|amitakartok]]

There are some interesting armchair conjectures on the power contained in Elerium, both on the [[Elerium-115#How_much_Elerium_is_.E2.80.9E1_Elerium.E2.80.9C.3F|Elerium-115]] page, and on its [[Talk:Elerium-115|Discussion]] page.

Cultural Influences on X-COM

2010-04-12T08:07:11Z

Arima:

= UFO =

The 1970s British TV series [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UFO_(TV_series) UFO]], produced by Gerry and Sylvia Anderson for ATV, is undoubtedly a major inspiration for the UFO: Enemy Unknown game. Set in the "near future" (1980!) it narrates the struggles of a secret, international, government-sponsored paramilitary organisation that is combating alien infiltration and terror.

== Organisation ==

The organisation is named SHADO, an acronym for Supreme Headquarters, Alien Defence Organisation, (by analogy with NATO and WW2 Allied military command acronyms). Established by a secret protocol of the UNSC, SHADO is a small organisation, answerable to government officials and a General, and subject to continual political pressure and interference, as well as disputes about funding.

== Bases ==

SHADO maintains at least one secret underground base in England (underneath a complex of film and television studios). SHADO also maintains a secret base on the moon, "Moonbase". SHADO wishes to expand its interceptor bases but is restricted by insufficient funding.

== Ranks and Command ==

The commanding officer of SHADO is an American ex-military officer, Ed Straker. He has the rank of Commander. While Commander Straker reports to a General, the General appears to work as the President of a mainstream civilian organisation, (the International Astrophysical Commission of the United Nations, acting as a front organisation for SHADO) and is not officially part of SHADO. The SHADO Commander has full discretion on projects and operations. The IAC board only has financial powers, and the power to appoint or dismiss the Commander - which must be by unanimous vote. The officer in charge of SHADO's Moonbase (usually a Colonel) is also referred to as a Commander. However he or she is clearly subordinate to the SHADO Commander, who is sometimes referred to as 'Supreme Commander'. There are also Colonels and Lieutenants in the SHADO hierarchy, many of whom formerly worked for national military organisations. There are also NCOs but no operatives with NCO ranks such as Sergeant are mentioned by name.
The impression given is of a small, close-knit organisation (quite possibly numbering no more than 255 paramilitary operatives and possibly much less).

== Surveillance and Interceptors ==

SHADO's defensive perimeter with the aliens is Earth orbit and the moon. Based out in space is an automated, artificial intelligence-controlled detection system called SID (Space Intruder Detector) which attempts to detect and track UFOs entering the solar system and approaching Earth. There are also ground based detection stations.

Primary interception is performed from Moonbase by manned spacecraft called Interceptors ( or "Moonbase Interceptors" ), operating in on-duty flights of 3. Interceptors are vectored against UFOs using target data from SID, either by the pilots or under telemetric control from Moonbase or SHADO HQ.

Interceptors are each armed with a single large nose-mounted nuclear rocket or missile with which to engage UFOs. This is a one-shot attack per Interceptor. There is a long recovery and rearming time for the Interceptors so if the 3 Interceptors all fail to destroy the UFO, interception has failed.

The probability of a hit and kill from 3 Interceptors is good, but frequently UFOs will still pass through the Moonbase Interceptor cordon either partially damaged or unscathed (or indeed slip through undetected). At this point SHADO's second line of defence comes in.

== Air Interception ==

SHADO operates at least one small, high performance interceptor aircraft called Sky One. This aircraft is a small stubby delta-winged single seat fighter armed with short range rapid-firing rocket pods. It has no guided missile armament. Air interception is seen as a last-ditch effort by SHADO and is possibly less effective than space interception, though is generally at an advantage as UFOs begin to deteriorate in earth's atmosphere.

Sky One is attached to the submarine known as Sky Diver, and essentially makes up the front portion of the sub.

== Submarine Operations ==

SHADO operates at least one advanced submarine, SkyDiver 1, similar to a slightly futuristic nuclear hunter/killer submarine. This vessel is crewed by SHADO personnel (in different uniforms) and is also used to investigate UFOs that have crashed or landed underwater.

SkyDiver's rated operating depth is around 1200m but it has survived exposure to depths of almost 2000m.

Interestingly, the Sky One interceptor aircraft is launched from the submarine whilst submerged, making Sky One arguably a kind of flying sub. However it is fair to say that SHADO's underwater operations are limited in comparison to ground operations. Oh well, maybe in the next war...

== Ground Operations ==

If UFOs pass through SHADO's air and space interception without being destroyed or detected, which happens quite frequently, SHADO ground forces will move to secure the crash site or landing site.

=== Weapons ===

SHADO troops are armed with selective-fire rifles that resemble a futuristic version of the contemporary NATO FN SLR, or perhaps a prototype of the SA80 small arm, and are also vaguely similar to the depiction of the X-COM Rifle. Troops are unarmoured, as was typical at the time - again similar to the initial X-COM forces.

SHADO use a man portable rocket launcher with an electronic-visual aiming system and reloadable rounds, very similar to the X-COM Rocket Launcher (though the rounds are smaller). The SHADO Rocket Launcher is capable (with a good hit) of disabling or destroying small UFOs, in this sense it is more powerful than its X-COM equivalent.

SHADO operatives also have advanced semi-automatic pistols at their disposal. These are more often used for covert work, rather than "battlefield" use.

A heavy, but man-portable high explosive pack (very similar to the X-COM High Explosive) is also used on occasion.

SHADO has tranquiliser rifles available but these are used on human targets and not known to be effective versus aliens.

Hand-held stun rods of some type are used by the aliens to capture human victims, but SHADO does not have a similar technology.

=== Transport and Vehicles ===

SHADO troops are transported tactically to UFO sites in tracked armoured personnel carriers called SHADO Mobiles. Strategically the Mobiles are flown into the crash / landing region on advanced-design jet cargo aircraft, called Transporters, but these aircraft are not V/TOL like the X-COM transports. SHADO also operates C/STOL supersonic transports (SSTs), and lunar modules which dock with air-breathing V/TOL aircraft for take off / landing from Earth. SHADO aircraft are flagged as "SHADAIR" - presumably a cover name.

=== Vehicle Weapons ===

Some SHADO Mobiles are armed with weapon systems such as multiple-launch rocket systems or autocannon / heavy machineguns.

== UFOs ==

UFOs are all (almost all?) of one standard type, a small metallic craft of standard "saucer" shape. They carry a small number of Aliens, probably similar to a Small or Medium Scout in UFO: Enemy Unknown.

UFOs maneuver at supralight speeds. They are tracked by SID at ranges on the order of 75 million miles from earth, typically moving at 8 times the speed of light (SOL), using highly specialised "Utronic" detection equipment developed for SHADO. In the vicinity of the Moon the UFOs decelerate to high sub-light speeds. (It's unclear how the Moonbase interceptor craft and weapons, both using some kind of reaction engine, are able to effectively engage spacecraft moving at such speeds. However the UFOs flight paths are highly predictable, so perhaps they have limited ability for lateral evasive action?).

The Earth's atmosphere forces the UFOs to slow down even further, to much slower speeds, allowing them to be intercepted by supersonic fighter aircraft. As in X-COM, UFOs are vulnerable to conventional explosive air to air missiles.

== Aliens ==

As in X-COM, aliens cannot long survive Earth atmosphere, but unlike in X-COM they wear spacesuits when on Earth. The identity and appearance of the aliens is a mystery and uncovering it is a major objective of SHADO (see below). Some of the aliens have psionic powers and there may be multiple types of alien (races or perhaps just factions). Some of the aliens are humanoid and can impersonate, or pass for, or possess, humans. The aliens also act through human collaborators or puppets. As in X-COM, they attempt to subvert government officials and other public figures.

One known activity of the aliens is harvesting of human organs, and it is suggested that some of the humanoid aliens encountered by SHADO may actually be modified, controlled humans and not the actual aliens.

The aliens are more suited to the underwater environment of Earth, and build at least one base under Earth's seas.

=== Alien Weapons ===

Alien personal weapons seem to be normal firearms or at least projectile weapons of some type, with a slightly lower rate of fire compared to SHADO weapons. Unlike in X-COM the alien personal weapons are not noticeably superior to human weapons.

Alien UFOs are sometimes equipped with an energy weapon of some kind, possibly a laser cannon or plasma cannon.

== SHADO Mission and Objectives ==

On a day to day basis SHADO detects, engages and destroys / secures UFOs and individual aliens encroaching on Earth. It also foils alien plots and schemes on Earth (and the Moon!), using SHADO operatives working undercover.

SHADO must also struggle to ensure it receives sufficient funding to meet its objectives, and to ensure the correct priorities are set by its funders, and that the support of funders continues.

Longer term, SHADO seeks to understand and discover alien intentions, capabilities, and origins, to correctly assess and respond to the alien threat, on behalf of the Earth. The aliens are highly mysterious and discovering information about them is key to SHADO. Capture of specimens, live aliens, or even communication with them, is a highly important objective. The intentions of the aliens remain one of the biggest mysteries. Learning the origin of the aliens, or their staging area for attacks, is also highly important.

= Threshold =

The US television series ''Threshold'', broadcast in the 2000s, is said to have certain similarities with X-COM. It concerns a secret organisation dedicated to investigating and combating an alien threat which is concealed from the public.

= Timothy Good/Robert Lazar =

In 1989 Bob Lazar claimed to have worked as a scientist from 1988 to 1989 in a governmental secret project at the infamous Area 51 where he saw crashed UFOs and an exotic [[Elerium|element-115]] which possessed anti-gravity properties.
For more information, check Wikipedia's [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bob_Lazar article].
Bob Lazar's descriptions were published in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Timothy_Good Timothy Good's] ''Alien Liaison'' book. If you are interested in reading about some very intriguing UFO cases (based upon official released documents) check his books, especially ''Alien Liaison'' and ''Beyond Top Secret'' (they were also most likely influences for UFO Defense).

= Invaders From Mars =

Another 1950's science fiction B-movie. Quoting from the Wikipedia's [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Day_the_Earth_Stood_Still_(1951_film) article] on it ''Inside they find a Martian, mostly a large head with strange tentacles, encased in a glassy sphere. The Martian mastermind is served by tall, green, silent humanoid "mutants"''. Coincidence that it [[Muton|sounds]] [[Cydonia_or_Bust|familiar]]?

= Branton Files =

The Branton Files are a set of conspiracy theories which involved the [[Sectoid|Greys]] and the [[Snakemen|Reptilian]] alien races and an ongoing subvert invasion of Earth by aliens. A link to the documents can be found [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Branton_Files here]

= Starship Troopers =

Power armor in science fiction was first popularized by Robert [Heinlein's ''http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Starship_Troopers Starship Troopers]
military science fiction novel. The plot regards Earth defending itself and its colonies from a hostile insectoid alien race, which has a hive mentality and is ruled by 'Brains'.
book

= Online UFO Culture of the early 1990s =

There were plenty of files going around BBS servers at the time. You can read those files at the [http://www.textfiles.com/ufo/ www.textfiles/ufo] site.

= TFTD & Lovecraft =

The author of the literary universe of the Cthulu Mythos and other literary horror works had a deep influence on [[TFTD]]:
* [[T'leth]] and the mood tone of TFTD are inspired of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cthulhu Mythos Cthulhu Mythos]. Cthulus is described an extraterrestrial monstrous entity that is asleep on the depths of oceans and waiting for the proper star alignment to be brought to life and impose its evil rule on Earth. The UFOPedia's entry for the final mission even has a reference of T'leth as ''a Lovecraftian nightmare''.
* For complete references to the influence of Lovecraft on TFTD check Wikipedia's [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_X-COM:_Terror_from_the_Deep_races Terror from the Deep races] page.

= The Kraken Wakes =

Science fiction book written by John Wyndham concerning an alien invasion that comes from the oceans. More info [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Kraken_Wakes here].

= Lobster Man From Mars =

There's a 1989 comedy/horror move featuring a well known [[Lobstermen|Lobster monster]] of [[TFTD]], more info available [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lobster_Man_From_Mars here]. Might be a coincidence on the name, might not...

= Invasion of the Body Snatchers =

The Micronoid Aggregate, which is the true antagonist of the X-COM series, was possibly based on the Pod People from the 1956 Film, Invasion of the Body Snatchers. They are both Extraterrestrial Parasites that depend on the assimilation of other species and the consumption of their resources for their own survival.

=See Also=
*[[Rank]]
*[[Craft]]
*[[Weapons]]
*[[Equipment]]
*[[UFOs]]
*[[Alien Life Forms|Aliens]]

Talk:Micronoid Aggregate (Apocalypse)

2010-04-10T08:21:00Z

Arima: New section: Micronoid Aggregate = Pod People?

Do the pools of blood from dead aliens mean, that a huge micronoid is hiding somewhere in the city, composed of thousands small micronoids escaped from the pools before the cleanerbots arrived? Waiting to burst out when it is strong enough or when X-Com have advanced enough?
:--[[User:Karpatius|Karp]] 04:28, 26 August 2008 (PDT)

----

Technically speaking?

Yes.

Yes, they do.

- [[User:Bomb Bloke|Bomb Bloke]] 21:05, 26 August 2008 (PDT)

----

Then again, they probably don't live for very long outside of a host or in an ideal environment that is suited to them (first alien building or inside the Bomber UFO). -[[User:NKF|NKF]] 22:23, 26 August 2008 (PDT)

----

Don't listen to him, the Micronoid already have him under their control! That's just what they WANT you to think!!

Run! Run, while you still can!!!

- [[User:Bomb Bloke|Bomb Bloke]] 02:09, 27 August 2008 (PDT)

----

NFK, check the biochemistry section; micronoids aren't as inept at Earth environment survival unlike other aliens. They just need a host, like an unsuspecting civilian or someone from the cleaner crew to negate poor conditions.

And Bomb: you are being observed... not watched, but observed...
:--[[User:Karpatius|Karp]] 02:29, 27 August 2008 (PDT)

----
It's a good thing mega primus has robot cleaners.--[[User:(name here)|(name here)]] 08:56, 27 August 2008 (PDT)

----

I said "someone" as in a technician or something.
:--[[User:Karpatius|Karp]] 09:23, 27 August 2008 (PDT)

----

Most of the muckier and more tedious jobs get given to bots or androids. Cleaners, technicians, mobile footstools, etc. But I suppose there's always one of those hapless rent-a-cops wandering around the building that everyone employs.

How would each individual or very small groups of micronoid cell organisms fare in earth's atmosphere though? They might survive well enough if they're able to band together into their puddle form if they're outside a host. Or do they die (via sympathetic reaction or some such) when their host dies?

When the aliens do their micronoid rain attack on a building, I'm guessing they're air-dropping micronoids onto the building. There would be lots of micronoids that end up splashing onto potential hosts who haven't got umbrellas or their handy dandy nuclear rain deflectors. Then there'd be enough to meld into a lots of puddles, and with their incredible psi powers when combined end up taking over the occupants of the building. It's hard to think of their plans being foiled by an excellent drainage and gutter system or even disinfectant.

And by the way we - yes - we are merely inebriated. We are not suspicious.

- [[User:NKF|NKF]] 22:51, 27 August 2008 (PDT)

----

Kinda guessed.

Good. It's just a game. Remember... just a game.
:-[[User:Karpatius|Karp]] 22:35, 28 August 2008 (PDT)

== Micronoid Aggregate = Pod People? ==

The Micronoid Aggregate, which is the true antagonist of the X-COM series, was possibly based on the Pod People from the 1956 Film, Invasion of the Body Snatchers.
They are both Extraterrestrial Parasites that depend on the assimilation of other species and the consumption of their resources for their own survival. --[[User:Arima|Arima]] 04:21, 10 April 2010 (EDT)

Marsec

2008-11-16T07:29:30Z

Arima: /* Other References */

Mars Security (MarSec) is a top corporation operating in the areas of private security and manufacturing of high-tech weapons and equipment. Its activities are controversial due to its secret operations and repressive methods.

==History==

MarSec was initially contracted by F. Denman Williams II in 2066 to take over the security of the Moon and [[Mars]] colonies from [[X-COM]], allowing for X-COM to concentrate its efforts in fighting the alien menace. At the same time MarSec launched itself into the manufacture of military hardware with the help of Denman Dynamics, a corporation owned by Williams.
With the breakout of the Frontier War on 2067, MarSec started supplying X-COM with spacecraft and weapons.
Much of the corporation's reputation was gained after its violent crack-down of the riots on Mars that followed the assassination of [[NAA]] Primer-President Cameron on Mars Colony One. The unrest originated from the Elerium miners' dissatisfaction over working conditions on the colonies, which quickly turned into mass rioting following the accusations and arrest of the leaders of their union, which were accused of assassinating Cameron. MarSec's strike teams then conducted several raids to reestablish peace on Mars, with the crisis lasting for a week and causing 95 dead.
Following the Frontier War, MarSec expanded its activities beyond Mars and established itself on [[Mega Primus]], turning itself into one of the largest military suppliers to Earth's nations and the colonies.

==Apocalypse Summary==
The ominous and highly secretive Marsec corporation took over from [[X-Com (Apocalypse)|X-COM]] as the leading provider of off-world security, as X-COM centered its activities around Mega Primus. During the initial years of their operation Marsec was empowered to impose order on the rebellious Mars colony. Marsec (Mars Security) developed high technology weaponry and vehicles by recruiting top Scientists from Earth and using the equipment left by X-COM. With the establishment of the remote [[Elerium-115|Elerium]] mining colonies, Marsec secured contracts for military equipment despite competition from [[Megapol]]

==Product Listing==

Besides providing for security on the Moon and Mars, MarSec is also the designer and manufacturer of the following products:

'''[[Info (Interceptor)|Interceptor]]'''

[[MarSec M-3 Super Avenger]]

[[MarSec Type 1 Deflector Shield]]

[[MarSec Vector Control Trusters]]

[[MarSec Tracer Cannon]]

'''[[Apocalypse]]'''

[[Phoenix_Hovercar_(Apocalypse)|Phoenix Hovercar]]

[[Valkyrie|Valkyrie Interceptor]]

[[Hawk_Air_Warrior]]

[[Stormdog]]

[[Griffon AFV_(Apocalypse)|Griffon AFV]]

[[Lineage Plasma Cannon_(Apocalypse)|Lineage Plasma Cannon]]

[[Plasma_Defense_Array_(Apocalypse)|Plasma Defense Array]]

[[Airguard Anti-Air Cannon]]

[[Marsec Proximity Mine]]

[[Marsec High Explosive]]

[[Marsec M4000 Machine Gun]]

[[Marsec Heavy Launcher]]

[[Marsec Minilauncher]]

[[Marsec Armor]]

[[Mind Shield (Apocalypse)|Marsec Mind Shield]]

==Other References==

- Apocalypse's UFOPedia mentions that the [[Psiclone]] implant was developed by a renegade MarSec scientist.

- MarSec first appeared on Laser Squad (the predecessor to X-COM), also as a secretive supplier of military equipment whose scientists were brainwashed to achieve the best results.

- Wether by pure coincidence or not, MarSec has some similarities to Rekall Inc., another fictional mars-based Mining Corporation from the 1990 Sci-Fi Film, Total Recall.
Both MarSec and Rekall Inc. have lucrative off-world mining interests, private security forces, repressive methods, and little regard for the welfare and working conditions of the miners.

Marsec

2008-11-16T07:16:23Z

Arima: /* Other References */

Marsec

2008-11-16T07:04:41Z

Arima: /* Other References */

Mars Security (MarSec) is a top corporation operating in the areas of private security and manufacturing of high-tech weapons and equipment. Its activities are controversial due to its secret operations and repressive methods.

==History==

MarSec was initially contracted by F. Denman Williams II in 2066 to take over the security of the Moon and [[Mars]] colonies from [[X-COM]], allowing for X-COM to concentrate its efforts in fighting the alien menace. At the same time MarSec launched itself into the manufacture of military hardware with the help of Denman Dynamics, a corporation owned by Williams.
With the breakout of the Frontier War on 2067, MarSec started supplying X-COM with spacecraft and weapons.
Much of the corporation's reputation was gained after its violent crack-down of the riots on Mars that followed the assassination of [[NAA]] Primer-President Cameron on Mars Colony One. The unrest originated from the Elerium miners' dissatisfaction over working conditions on the colonies, which quickly turned into mass rioting following the accusations and arrest of the leaders of their union, which were accused of assassinating Cameron. MarSec's strike teams then conducted several raids to reestablish peace on Mars, with the crisis lasting for a week and causing 95 dead.
Following the Frontier War, MarSec expanded its activities beyond Mars and established itself on [[Mega Primus]], turning itself into one of the largest military suppliers to Earth's nations and the colonies.

==Apocalypse Summary==
The ominous and highly secretive Marsec corporation took over from [[X-Com (Apocalypse)|X-COM]] as the leading provider of off-world security, as X-COM centered its activities around Mega Primus. During the initial years of their operation Marsec was empowered to impose order on the rebellious Mars colony. Marsec (Mars Security) developed high technology weaponry and vehicles by recruiting top Scientists from Earth and using the equipment left by X-COM. With the establishment of the remote [[Elerium-115|Elerium]] mining colonies, Marsec secured contracts for military equipment despite competition from [[Megapol]]

==Product Listing==

Besides providing for security on the Moon and Mars, MarSec is also the designer and manufacturer of the following products:

'''[[Info (Interceptor)|Interceptor]]'''

[[MarSec M-3 Super Avenger]]

[[MarSec Type 1 Deflector Shield]]

[[MarSec Vector Control Trusters]]

[[MarSec Tracer Cannon]]

'''[[Apocalypse]]'''

[[Phoenix_Hovercar_(Apocalypse)|Phoenix Hovercar]]

[[Valkyrie|Valkyrie Interceptor]]

[[Hawk_Air_Warrior]]

[[Stormdog]]

[[Griffon AFV_(Apocalypse)|Griffon AFV]]

[[Lineage Plasma Cannon_(Apocalypse)|Lineage Plasma Cannon]]

[[Plasma_Defense_Array_(Apocalypse)|Plasma Defense Array]]

[[Airguard Anti-Air Cannon]]

[[Marsec Proximity Mine]]

[[Marsec High Explosive]]

[[Marsec M4000 Machine Gun]]

[[Marsec Heavy Launcher]]

[[Marsec Minilauncher]]

[[Marsec Armor]]

[[Mind Shield (Apocalypse)|Marsec Mind Shield]]

==Other References==

- Apocalypse's UFOPedia mentions that the [[Psiclone]] implant was developed by a renegade MarSec scientist.

- MarSec first appeared on Laser Squad (the predecessor to X-COM), also as a secretive supplier of military equipment whose scientists were brainwashed to achieve the best results.

- Wether by pure coincidence or not, MarSec has some similarities to Rekall Inc., another fictional mars-based Mining Corporation from the 1990 Sci-Fi Film, Total Recall.
Both MarSec and Rekall Inc. have off-world interests, private security forces, oppressive methods, and little regard for the working conditions of their employees.