Overskider

Overskider is a term used in speculative fiction and world-building to denote a class of atmospheric phenomena that appear to move between layers of the sky and interact with the surface in unusual ways. In many settings, an overskider is described as a luminous, wispy formation or a transient energy cloud that can alter weather, disrupt electronics, or influence local perception. There is no single, canonical definition; authors and game designers adapt the concept to fit their worlds, often linking overskider activity to celestial events, ancient technology, or arcane forces.

Origins and use in fiction. The term is not tied to a real-world language or science and is typically introduced as a world-building device. Some narratives treat overskider phenomena as passive phenomena that simply occur, while others grant them agency or sentience. In adaptations across novels, tabletop games, and films, overskider events can drive plot points, trigger discoveries, or serve as a catalyst for character decisions. The variability across works is part of the concept’s appeal, allowing creators to assign different rules and limits to the phenomenon.

Common motifs and mechanics. Across depictions, overskider features often include: movement across atmospheric strata, irregular lighting or electromagnetic effects, and a degree of unpredictability that complicates navigation and planning. They may be framed as hazards to be avoided, puzzles to be solved, or sources of hidden power. In game design, overskider can function as a dynamic environmental element, shaping encounters and influencing resource management or risk assessment.

In summary, overskider is a flexible, fictional construct used to explore atmosphere, mystery, and interaction between sky and ground within speculative storytelling.