Navigating the extensive universe of science fiction as a game developer can be a daunting task. As you craft your narratives, world-building elements, and gameplay mechanics, you’re often drawing from complex themes involving advanced science and technology, space exploration, time travel, parallel universes, and extraterrestrial life.

Understanding and using the right terminology is critical for creating immersive and authentic experiences in this genre. Therefore, we’ve compiled a comprehensive glossary of common and made-up Sci-Fi terminology to inspire and guide you as you breathe life into your Sci-Fi game’s universe.

Common Sci-Fi Terminology

1. AI (Artificial Intelligence): Simulated intelligence in machines, often possessing the ability to learn or adapt.
2. Alien: Life forms originating from somewhere other than Earth.
3. Android: A robot designed to resemble and behave like a human.
4. Astrogation: The methods and techniques of navigating in outer space.
5. Biosphere: A self-sustaining artificial ecological environment.
6. Cybernetics: The study of control and communication systems in living organisms and machines.
7. Exosuit: A wearable, powered suit or armor that enhances the wearer’s physical abilities.
8. FTL (Faster Than Light): Any method of travel at speeds faster than the speed of light.
9. Holography: A technique for creating three-dimensional images.
10. Nanotechnology: Manipulation of matter on an atomic or molecular scale.
11. Parallel Universe: A hypothetical self-contained universe existing simultaneously with our own.
12. Quantum: Pertaining to quantum mechanics, which describes the behavior of particles on a microscopic scale.
13. Replicant: A bioengineered or artificially created human.
14. Singularity: A point where a measured variable reaches unbounded extremity.
15. Teleportation: The hypothetical transfer of matter or energy from one point to another without traversing the physical space between them.
16. Terraforming: The hypothetical process of modifying a planet’s atmosphere, temperature, surface or ecology to be similar to those of Earth.
17. Warp Drive: A hypothetical FTL propulsion system that manipulates spacetime.
18. Xenobiology: The study of non-Earth based life forms.
19. Zero-G: Short for zero gravity, referring to an environment in which gravity is not perceived.
20. Multiverse: The hypothetical set of multiple possible universes, including the one we inhabit.
21. Stasis Pod: A device to halt or slow down the process of aging by putting its occupant into a state of suspended animation.
22. Dyson Sphere: A hypothetical megastructure that completely encompasses a star, capturing most or all of its power output.
23. Cyberspace: The environment in which communication over computer networks occurs.
24. Cloning: The process of producing genetically identical individuals.
25. Posthuman: A being with abilities so significantly advanced beyond current human abilities as to be no longer human.
26. Megacorporation: A huge corporate entity, often portrayed as being powerful and influential in a dystopian future.
27. Hyperspace: A theoretical faster-than-light method of traveling.
28. Virtual Reality: An artificial environment experienced through sensory stimuli provided by a computer.
29. Symbiotic: A close, prolonged association between two or more different organisms of different species that benefits both parties.
30. Neural Interface: A direct connection between a brain and a computer.
31. Genetic Engineering: The deliberate manipulation of an organism’s genes.
32. Orbital Station: A spacecraft or structure in orbit around a planet, star, or moon.
33. Photon: A particle representing a quantum of light.
34. Subspace: A hypothetical space within or coexistent with our own universe.
35. Matrioshka Brain: A hypothetical megastructure, based on the Dyson sphere, of immense computational capacity.
36. Exoplanet: A planet outside our solar system, orbiting a star other than the sun.
37. Neutrino: A subatomic particle with a mass close to zero, rarely interacting with normal matter.
38. Dark Matter: Unseen material that is believed to exist in space because of its gravitational effects on stars and galaxies.
39. Dark Energy: Hypothetical form of energy that permeates all space and accelerates the expansion of the universe.
40. Event Horizon: The boundary defining the region of space around a black hole from which nothing can escape.
41. Space Elevator: A proposed type of space transportation system.
42. Quantum Computer: A type of computer that uses the principles of quantum mechanics to process information.
43. Simulated Reality: A hypothetical reality that could be simulated, for example, inside a powerful computer.
44. Antimatter: Subatomic particles that have properties opposite normal subatomic particles.
45. Superluminal: Having a speed greater than that of light.
46. Time Dilation: A difference in the elapsed time as measured by two observers, due to a relative velocity between them.
47. Cryonics: The low-temperature preservation of humans and animals for future resuscitation.
48. Biochip: A miniaturized biotechnological device used in genetic analysis or patient monitoring.
49. Cyborg: A being with both organic and biomechatronic body parts.
50. Panspermia: The hypothesis that life exists throughout the Universe, and can be spread via comets, meteoroids and spacecraft.

Invented Sci-Fi Terms and Objects

1. Plasmion Drive: A theoretical propulsion system that uses ionized plasma for FTL travel.
2. Quantum Entangler: A device that uses the principles of quantum entanglement for instantaneous communication across vast distances.
3. Cryolattice Armor: A type of advanced armor that uses a matrix of cryogenically cooled materials to dissipate energy from directed energy weapons.
4. Neurosync: A technology that allows direct interface between a human brain and a computer system.
5. Vortex Gate: A type of transportation device that creates wormholes, allowing for instantaneous travel between two points in space.
6. Xenofauna / Xenoflora: Terms used to refer to alien wildlife and alien plant life respectively.
7. Psion Amplifier: A device that enhances psychic or telekinetic abilities in individuals.
8. Zeta Wave Emitter: A tool that releases highly concentrated waves of Zeta energy, disrupting electronic systems.
9. Chronoslip: The act of time travel or the ripple effect caused by altering events in the timeline.
10. Nebulaser: A powerful weapon that utilizes energized nebula gas to deliver destructive blasts.
11. Astrospore: A hardy, spore-based life form capable of surviving in the vacuum of space.
12. Ion Thread: Advanced wiring capable of conducting high-energy ion flow.
13. Omnifabricator: A highly advanced 3D printer capable of producing complex objects, including electronics and machinery.
14. Helix Battery: A power source that uses a coil of quantum-stabilized Helium-3 for long-lasting energy.
15. Exovault: An extra-dimensional storage system.
16. Photon Lattice: A complex structure of photons trapped in a grid of light.
17. Voidcloak: A device that utilizes advanced stealth technology to render the user invisible.
18. Tachyon Scanner: A device for detecting faster-than-light particles.
19. Xenoarcheology: The study of extinct alien civilizations through the analysis of physical artifacts and structures.
20. Galactinet: The interstellar version of the Internet.
21. Quantum Lock: An unbreakable lock that uses quantum states for encryption.
22. Stellaplex: A complex, interstellar city structure with multiple layers and districts.
23. Temporal Paradox: An event that contradicts causality within the timeline.
24. Neurogel: A substance that supports neural connections, allowing for advanced AI learning and development.
25. Biosteel: A strong, durable material made from genetically engineered organisms.
26. Phase Shift: The ability to shift into another dimension.
27. Nanohealer: A swarm of nanobots designed to heal or repair at a microscopic level.
28. Antimatter Converter: A device that converts matter into antimatter for use as a power source.
29. Einstein-Rosen Bridge: A scientific term for a wormhole, a shortcut connecting two separate points in space and time.
30. Holomatrix: A 3D framework supporting the display of holographic images.
31. Photon Shield: A barrier made of densely packed photons.
32. Graviton: A theoretical elementary particle that mediates the force of gravity.
33. Synthskin: Artificial human-like skin used to cover androids or robotic limbs.
34. Paragravity: Artificially produced gravity.
35. Xenolinguistics: The study of alien languages.
36. Exosolar: Beyond or from outside the solar system.
37. Hyperdrone: A drone capable of FTL travel.
38. Retrospace: The space-time behind a moving object.
39. Transdimensional: Existing in or having aspects in more than one dimension.
40. Antigrav: A device or technology that counteracts the force of gravity.
41. Cosmic String: A hypothetical 1-dimensional topological defect in various fields.
42. Cybermancer: An individual who uses technology to affect and manipulate reality, similar to a wizard in fantasy settings.
43. Dilithium Crystals: A fictional material used in starship engines for faster-than-light travel.
44. Higgs Field Disruptor: A hypothetical device capable of disrupting the Higgs field, which gives particles their mass.
45. Infojack: A cybernetic implant that provides a direct interface with computer systems.
46. Neural Nanonics: A type of neural interface technology using nanotechnology.
47. Quasar Beam: A weapon that fires a concentrated beam of energy similar to that emitted by a quasar.
48. Reality Matrix: A simulated reality environment that is indistinguishable from the real world.
49. Spacetime Fabric Regulator: A device used to manipulate or repair the fabric of spacetime.
50. Teleforce Beam: A projected energy weapon, often associated with theoretical “death rays”.