In the Starfinder universe, the Drift Crisis is a significant event that disrupted faster-than-light travel across the galaxy. This crisis began in the year 322 AG (After Gap) and lasted for approximately one year. Given that the current in-game year is 323 AG, the Drift Crisis occurred roughly one year ago.
Understanding the Drift Crisis
The Drift, a hyperspace dimension enabling faster-than-light travel, experienced a catastrophic failure in 322 AG. This event, known as the Drift Crash, caused starships in transit to vanish or be ejected into random locations, including other planes of existence. Communications reliant on the Drift were disrupted, and the deity Triune, responsible for the Drift’s creation, became mysteriously silent. The immediate aftermath led to widespread chaos, economic turmoil, and a reevaluation of interstellar travel and communication.
The Aftermath and Recovery
In the year following the Drift Crisis, efforts were made to restore stability. New methods of Drift travel have been developed, including the establishment of “Drift Lanes,” which function similarly to space highways, providing more reliable routes for starships. These developments have been crucial in reestablishing trade routes and communication channels, though the galaxy continues to adapt to the changes brought about by the crisis.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long ago was the Drift Crisis in Starfinder?
- The Drift Crisis began approximately one year ago, in 322 AG, and lasted for about a year.
- What caused the Drift Crisis?
- The exact cause remains a topic of speculation, with theories ranging from divine intervention to technological malfunctions.
- How did the Drift Crisis impact interstellar travel?
- The crisis rendered traditional Drift travel unreliable, leading to stranded ships and disrupted communications.
- What are Drift Lanes?
- Drift Lanes are newly established, stable routes within the Drift, functioning like space highways to facilitate safer and more predictable travel.
- Is the Drift fully operational now?
- While significant progress has been made, the Drift has not returned to its pre-crisis state. Travel is more stable along Drift Lanes, but some unpredictability persists.
