outworlders

Outworlders is a term used in science fiction to refer to beings or entities originating from a world or dimension other than the one in which the story's primary characters reside. These characters often possess unique physiologies, advanced technologies, or unfamiliar cultural norms that set them apart from the native inhabitants of a planet or universe. The concept of outworlders is a fundamental element in many alien invasion narratives, interspecies diplomacy stories, and tales of cosmic exploration.

The motivations and nature of outworlders can vary widely. They may be depicted as benevolent explorers seeking knowledge or refuge, as hostile conquerors driven by resource scarcity or expansionist desires, or as indifferent beings whose actions have profound, unintended consequences for the local population. Their arrival often serves as a catalyst for conflict, cooperation, or significant societal change for the inhabitants of the "home" world.

In some narratives, the term "outworlder" can also encompass beings from different dimensions or planes of existence, not strictly limited to extraterrestrial origins. These beings might possess powers or operate under laws of physics that defy conventional understanding, adding a layer of mystery and the fantastical to their presence. The concept of outworlders allows writers to explore themes of xenophobia, cultural exchange, the unknown, and humanity's place in a potentially vast and diverse cosmos.