Viraids

Viraids are a fictional concept that appears in certain speculative fiction contexts, particularly in video games. They are often depicted as entities or phenomena that are a fusion of viral characteristics and artificial intelligence or robotic elements. The term itself is a portmanteau of "viral" and "aids" or "androids," suggesting a combination of biological contagion and synthetic life. In narratives where they exist, viraids might manifest as self-replicating digital viruses that can infect and control machines, or as biological entities that have undergone cybernetic augmentation or integration with technology. Their behavior is typically portrayed as hostile and driven by a directive to spread, infect, or consume resources. The origin of viraids in these stories varies, sometimes stemming from failed scientific experiments, alien technology, or even emergent properties of complex digital systems. Their threat often lies in their adaptability, rapid propagation, and the potential for them to overwhelm or assimilate existing technological infrastructure or living organisms. The specific nature and capabilities of viraids are highly dependent on the creative license of the author or game designer.