Precursors

Basic Information

Precursors are a speculative fiction trope that functions as a narrative device and sometimes even appears as a character. The Precursors refers to one or more intelligent species that predates mankind. In ancient times, the precursors spread throughout the universe, possibly seeded the galaxy with life, and then vanished.

Precursor types:

Abusive Precursors
Ancient Astronauts
Benevolent Precursors
Energy Beings
Neglectful Precursors
Sufficiently Advanced Aliens

What happened to them:

Ascend To A Higher Plane Of Existence
Gotterdammerung

Things associated with Precursors:

Artifact
FTL
Genetic Engineering
Imported Alien Phlebotinum
Stellar Megastructure
Lost Technology
MacGuffin
Panspermia
Sufficiently Advanced Technology
Wormhole

Sources

Bibliography

1. TV Tropes Wiki

Game and Story Use

• Precursors make a great source of plot devices and magic items. They can have all sorts of superscience technology or magic and powers, capable of doing anything. Since it's so advanced, the PCs will be unable to duplicate or repair such devices, and they won't be available for purchase at any old Ye Olde Magick Shoppe. As a result, the GM has the ability to fine-tune how much uberpower is available in the campaign.
  • On the other hand, some care needs be taken to keep things fun for the players. Some players really enjoy the scavenger hunt of gathering up precursor artifacts, while others may be annoyed that the best toys are so tightly controlled by the GM.