From the core book intro: You may be asking ... "what is this crazy thing?" we call it a tactical sci-fi/fantasy role-playing game. Let's take a moment to unpack that description. Tactical: The rules of this game are meant to be manipulated by the players and the GM in order to gain an advantage in and eventually "win" conflicts. This game combines elements from role-playing games, tactical skirmish games, and large-scale strategy games. Sci-fi/fantasy: Thsi game is set on the planet or Osaris, a war-torn desert planet with many ancient secrets. It incorporates elements of "soft" science fiction as well as elements of fantasy (magic and the supernatural). Role-playing game: Despite all of the fancy widgets, this is a relatively traditional role-playing game. It has a gamemaster, players, narration, character development, and immersion.