Originally posted by bobbycondo:
I am curious how everyone handles it when their groups go to worlds that have a lower TLs than the worlds that the groups are from? Is there any code of non-interference (ala Star Trek), or is it a free for all, regardless of any impact to the native culture?
?
If they want to play with the big boys, they play by the big boys rules.
Only worlds that are interdicted have a Prime Directive thing going on.
As far as advanced weapons, ask yourself "is there a rough analogy here on Terra at TL 8."
Could Somalia (current effective tech level around 3) support f-16s. No. Can they support TL6-7 assault rifles and mortars?
Hell, yes. (And do they ever) But they pay a very high price. Saudi Arabia is TL 6 or so, but uses F-15Es (TL 8) but require constant support from the US to maintain them. Botswana, TL 5 or so, uses equipment that, for the most part, would not have been so out of place in WWII. They are not willing to foot the bill for equipment they do not need.
Difference? Somalia is completely balkanized (Gov 7) and desperately poor but supports (barely) 4 TLs above
The Saudis support 2 TLs above but it is pricey but their prestige requires it and they can actually use phenomenal planes. They are gov 3.
Botswana is a democracy (barely but it is) and prefers to spend money on useful things (like infrastructure) (They have one of the highest per capita GNPs in Africa)
It depends on who is around them (if friendly, they will be at their own tech, if it is hostile, then there is a greater likelihood of splurging on the armaments), government type (non-democratic governments love military spending because it is usually the only thing that can either take them out of or keeps them in power)