Table of Contents

Races | Technology

EXOHUMAN WEAPONS IN THE BETA AGE

Overview

During the Beta Age, ExoHuman weapons underwent a significant evolution, transitioning from the restricted armaments of the Last Frontier to the unregulated and widespread use of firearms and melee weapons in the Free State of Settlers.

Initially, only the Guarding Troopers — the designated law enforcement of the Last Frontier — were allowed to carry weapons. However, following the crash-landing on VOI 700 D in 2625, new challenges emerged, leading to the proliferation of both improvised and manufactured weapons.

Unlike in the Gamma Age, where weapon possession was strictly regulated, the Beta Age was defined by uncontrolled access to firearms and the rapid development of local armories.

Weapons on the Last Frontier (Alpha Age)

During the Alpha Age, weapon possession was prohibited for civilians aboard the Last Frontier. The only individuals permitted to carry weapons were the Guarding Troopers, who acted as both law enforcement and internal security. These weapons included:

After the crash-landing, many of these weapons were either damaged or rendered inoperable due to the destruction of Quantum-Fusion Batteries. While some Laser Guns remained functional, their usage was limited due to the difficulty of recharging them. However, Laser Cannons were integrated into the defensive walls of the newly established settlements, offering strategic protection against external threats.

The Rise of DIY Weaponry

As settlers spread across VOI 700 D, many — especially those establishing farms beyond the fortified settlements — began crafting their own weapons for hunting and self-defense. The lack of centralized manufacturing initially resulted in highly variable quality, leading to frequent malfunctions and self-inflicted injuries. These DIY weapons included:

By 2626, small workshops specializing in firearm production emerged, giving rise to a blacksmithing and gunsmithing industry that would shape Beta Age weapon culture.

Regulation and the Birth of the Forge of Atrana

Due to multiple accidents involving faulty firearms, the Settler’s Council of the Free State of Settlers enacted a licensing system in 2627, requiring weaponsmiths to demonstrate their qualifications. Among these workshops, the Forge of Atrana quickly gained legendary status. Founded by Jack Dolany in Morningstar, the Forge of Atrana became the gold standard for high-quality weaponsmithing. While many workshops produced weapons of dubious quality, the Forge of Atrana specialized in only one precision-crafted and reliable hunting firearm The Windstrike Rifle.

Weapons Acquired from Native Tribes

Some ExoHumans traded with or stole from Native Tribes, acquiring their specialized weapons for hunting or self-defense.

Common Native Weapons in ExoHuman Hands:

These weapons were lighter, stealthier, and did not require gunpowder or energy sources, making them ideal for settlers living outside the fortresse

The Free State of Settlers and the Culture of Firearms

Unlike later periods, weapon possession in the Beta Age was entirely unregulated. Every settler could carry weapons without restriction, leading to a strong gun culture, particularly in the settlements of Morningstar, Hope, and Firetown.

Key aspects of this culture included:

Furthermore, the use of weapons for self-defense and hunting was completely legal, reinforcing the independent and self-sufficient mindset of the settlers.

The Great War and Mass Weapon Production (2629–2630)

With the outbreak of the Great War in 2629, weapon production shifted toward mass manufacturing for the Volunteer Army of Man. The Forge of Atrana became the primary weapons supplier, producing arms in large quantities.

By the end of the Beta Age, weapons had become deeply ingrained in ExoHuman society, setting the stage for the stricter regulations imposed in the Gamma Age.

Overview: Important Weapons of the Beta Age

Guarding Trooper Weapons

Weapons Manufactured in the Free State of Settlers

Weapons Acquired from Native Tribes

Tactical Advice for Dungeon Masters

The Beta Age’s wild and unregulated weapon culture makes it a rich setting for roleplaying, full of intrigue, danger, and high-stakes battles.

The Ages of ExoHuman History: