I picked up the new edition of GURPS Ultra-Tech this week, and, inspired by a series of posts that Phil Masters made about using it in Transhuman Space, I thought I'd do something similar for the IST world. Why not?
Unlike my previous bits of content, however, I am moving the timeline forward beyond what was presented in GURPS IST, and possibly even beyond the extended timeline that Bob's posted on his site. Needless to say, all of these speculations are subject to revision.
Chapter One: Ultra-Technology
Ages of Technology/Tech Level: By the early 21st century, the IST world is pretty firmly in TL9^, heading for TL 10^, which it will probably achieve in the early 2030s. It is actually already TL10^ in the area of beam weaponry. That said, much of the world gets by with TL8 or even TL7 gear, because of ...
Gadget Control: Generally, any TL9 or higher item should cost about 2.5 times its list price. In general, this extra cost represents "taxes, liability costs, and other measures". The powers that be will want to keep track of advanced technology, particularly in a world where it is disturbingly common for people to put on costumes and declare themselves the rightful rulers of the world, outfitting armies of minions to do so.
As for heroes: While the DMI (or similar organizations) probably won't help affiliated super-groups with the cost of advanced equipment, they can often smooth out the paperwork involved, or arrange contacts with the manufacturers. Of course, this will represent a favor owed them.
Buying Equipment: TRADE represents the largest "black market" for advanced technology.
Unlike my previous bits of content, however, I am moving the timeline forward beyond what was presented in GURPS IST, and possibly even beyond the extended timeline that Bob's posted on his site. Needless to say, all of these speculations are subject to revision.
Chapter One: Ultra-Technology
Ages of Technology/Tech Level: By the early 21st century, the IST world is pretty firmly in TL9^, heading for TL 10^, which it will probably achieve in the early 2030s. It is actually already TL10^ in the area of beam weaponry. That said, much of the world gets by with TL8 or even TL7 gear, because of ...
Gadget Control: Generally, any TL9 or higher item should cost about 2.5 times its list price. In general, this extra cost represents "taxes, liability costs, and other measures". The powers that be will want to keep track of advanced technology, particularly in a world where it is disturbingly common for people to put on costumes and declare themselves the rightful rulers of the world, outfitting armies of minions to do so.
As for heroes: While the DMI (or similar organizations) probably won't help affiliated super-groups with the cost of advanced equipment, they can often smooth out the paperwork involved, or arrange contacts with the manufacturers. Of course, this will represent a favor owed them.
Buying Equipment: TRADE represents the largest "black market" for advanced technology.