Synths

Synth is the term for a class of alien creatures turned into war machines, and one of the several species that make up the Union organization. They are officially described as "self-replicating robots that evolve", "created or taken over by the Universal Union and enslaved during their conquests and wars." Most Synths seem to possess both organic and robotic characteristics, suggesting that they may be the cyborg derivatives of alien races that were previously enslaved by the Union and assimilated into its armed forces.

The Synths that currently occupy Earth have been modified to fit our planet. The occupation force is designed to be nearly autonomous from the rest of the Union - it is rumored that the Synths are assembled in some of the more secret factories of City 17, while some claim they come from the Citadel itself.

Synth's intelligence has been the subject of much debate - they appear to be completely sentient, yet no Synth has ever be reported to have disobeyed an order. It is believed that cybernetic part of the Synth's brain is loaded with what is essentially malicious software - basically inserted training and brainwashing to make the machine completely docile. This, unfortunately for the Union, hampers their total intelligence and effectiveness - Synths tend to act more like animals in a pack than anything else.

Striders


The most common and arguably powerful of the Synths, Striders are large, fast and capable. Slung under its body is a pulse cannon, which, when overcharged, will fire a powerful impulse burst.

Gunships


Gunships, sometimes referred to as Dragons, are large flying Synths designed to provide air support to Union troops. They are armed with a pulse cannon and a 'belly cannon' that can vaporize anything unfortunate enough to be under it.

Dropships


The Synth dropship, often called Mantas, take the form of large, ion-impulse driven aircraft. With its multiple arms, a Manta can pick up all sorts of Union vehicles or transport pods to take troops into battle. They are noticeably more docile and intelligent than other Synths, being careful to protect their cargo of troops. Only when certain modified drop pods are attached to the Synth can the Manta directly attack anyone.

See: Sector 17

Hunters


The hunter is a fast and deadly Synth developed by the Union to provide hunter-killer functions as well as escort duty. Hunters live up to their name, usually appearing in pairs and attacking in a viscous, coordinated fashion. Its primary weapons are the dual rapid-fire Flechette Launchers that launch out of the 'eyes' on the front. The flechettes stick into nearly anything they hit before overloading and exploding. Hunters are usually only deployed in special situations.