Splicer

Splicers are genetically engineered humans, modified at the embryonic phase to exhibit traits optimized for specific purposes such as military operations, survival in hostile environments, or colonization of alien worlds. Created in the early 22nd century to combat climate crises, eliminate disease, and prepare for off-world expansion, Splicers are humanity’s answer to its limitations. While adaptable and resilient, they are highly sensitive to Genetic Engineering and Cybernetics post-birth, as their bodies are meticulously engineered for balance. Additionally, Splicers’ interactions with Eldritch Energy and Abyssal Resonance reveal unique vulnerabilities, ranging from susceptibility to mental instability to physical mutations.

The first Splicers were developed in 2113 CE by NeoGenesis Genetics, led by Dr. Evelyn Ashcroft. Initially created to combat diseases and adapt humanity to Earth's changing ecosystems, the technology rapidly expanded to meet the needs of military operations and extraterrestrial colonization. By the mid-22nd century, Splicers had become indispensable in both terrestrial and off-world roles.

Splicers are humanity's genetic gambit for survival, embodying both the strengths and vulnerabilities of engineered evolution. While their tailored physiology makes them indispensable in the Shrouded Galaxy, their sensitivity to Abyssal Resonance and the inherent risks of further modification underscore the fine line between advancement and overreach.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Splicers' physical design varies based on their engineered purpose, but they share common traits optimized for survival and efficiency:

• Skeleton: Reinforced or lightened depending on their environment. High-gravity Splicers have dense, durable bones, while low-gravity variants possess lighter frames.
• Musculature: Tailored for specific tasks, such as enhanced strength for soldiers or endurance for explorers.
• Internal Organs: Adaptations such as toxin-filtering lungs, temperature-regulating skin, or hyper-efficient hearts are common.
• Abyssal Vulnerability: Their genetic modifications often render Splicers uniquely susceptible to Abyssal Resonance, with physical or mental corruption manifesting more rapidly than in unmodified humans.
  
  

Cybertechnology and Genetic Modifications
Splicers' bodies are finely tuned, and external modifications can disrupt their genetic equilibrium:

• Cybernetic Enhancements: Cybernetic implants or augmentations often result in rejection or interference with their physiology. Muscle spasms, immune reactions, or systemic failures are common side effects unless performed with specialized equipment and expertise.
• Genetic Modifications: Post-birth genetic alterations are almost universally disastrous, destabilizing their engineered balance and often leading to fatal results.
• Costs and Risks: Both cybernetic and genetic modifications require highly advanced facilities, making such procedures rare and prohibitively expensive.

Genetics and Reproduction

Splicers reproduce naturally, and their genetic modifications are usually passed down to offspring. However, second-generation Splicers sometimes experience instability, with mutations or traits that deviate from the original design. Post-birth genetic modifications are highly discouraged, as they often disrupt the engineered balance of their bodies, leading to unforeseen complications such as organ failure or accelerated aging.

Growth Rate & Stages

Splicers follow a similar developmental timeline to humans but exhibit optimized growth efficiency:

• Childhood: Enhanced cognitive and physical development begins early, with Splicers often excelling beyond human counterparts by age five.
• Adolescence: Hormonal surges are carefully monitored to stabilize genetic traits.
• Adulthood: Most Splicers reach full operational readiness by their mid-20s, with specialized enhancements fully integrated.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Splicers require tailored diets to maintain their engineered enhancements:

• Nutrient-Rich Meals: Military Splicers require high-calorie diets loaded with proteins and micronutrients.
• Environmental Adaptation: Colonists in extreme environments often rely on locally sourced sustenance, augmented by supplements.
• Metabolic Efficiency: Splicers metabolize food more effectively, producing minimal waste.

Behaviour

Behavior varies widely depending on their intended purpose:

• Military Splicers: Goal-oriented, disciplined, and aggressive in high-stress situations.
• Exploratory Splicers: Curious, adaptable, and independent thinkers.
• Civilian Splicers: Often introspective, grappling with their engineered nature and identity.

Additional Information

Facial characteristics

Eye colors and skin tone may be genetically tailored for camouflage or environmental adaptation.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Depending on their genetic programming, Splicers exhibit enhanced sensory abilities:

• Vision: Adaptations for night vision, thermal imaging, or ultraviolet spectrum perception.
• Hearing: Increased auditory range, allowing detection of minute environmental changes.
• Olfactory Sensitivity: Certain Splicers can identify chemical traces in the air, useful for survival or tracking.
• Psychic Vulnerability: While not naturally psychic, Splicers often exhibit heightened sensitivity to Abyssal Resonance, increasing the likelihood of corruption or hallucinations near Eldritch artifacts.
  
  

Interaction with Eldritch Energy and Abyssal Resonance

Splicers exhibit unique responses to Eldritch phenomena:

• Corruption Sensitivity: Genetic modifications leave them vulnerable to the corruptive effects of Abyssal Resonance, often manifesting as physical mutations or mental instability.
• Heightened Influence: Splicers are more likely to experience hallucinations, paranoia, or psychic intrusion when exposed to Eldritch Energy.
• Research Subjects: Their vulnerability has made Splicers frequent subjects of unethical research by organizations such as Arcane Biotech, seeking to understand the connection between genetic engineering and Eldritch phenomena.

Civilization and Culture

History

Splicers emerged as humanity faced Earth’s ecological collapse, with their creation representing the first step toward adapting to extraterrestrial environments. They played pivotal roles in the Resource Wars, colonization efforts, and early interactions with alien species. Despite their importance, many societies view Splicers with a mix of awe and apprehension, questioning the ethical implications of their existence.

Interspecies Relations and Assumptions

Splicers occupy a complex societal role:

• Humans: Viewed as tools, heroes, or aberrations depending on cultural norms.
• Synths: Mutual respect exists, though Synths view Splicers' susceptibility to Eldritch Energy as a weakness.

Genetic Ancestor(s)

• Human

Scientific Name

Homo sapiens splicatus

Lifespan

90–150 years, with longevity influenced by genetic design and environmental conditions

Average Height

1.6–2.2 meters (5’3”–7’2”)

Average Weight

50–120 kg (110–265 lbs), depending on skeletal and muscular adaptations

Average Physique

Lean and efficient, though specialized builds (e.g., muscular soldiers or lithe explorers) are common.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Skin tones may be genetically tailored for camouflage or environmental adaptation. Some Splicers display unique markings or pigmentation tied to their purpose.

Related Historical Events

• 2397
  The Rift War
• 2113
  Splicer Technology Developed