A Life More Synthetic; Internal Respirator

 Adapted from Starfinder 2e Playtest, and Android- Archives of Nethys

I don’t like the idea of the Internal Respirator feat of android characters in Starfinder 2e;  This feat plays against what I perceive Androids to be as a well-established Sci-Fi Trope. In my mind, androids do not need to eat, drink, sleep, or breathe. I would be more inclined to grant immunity to starvation, suffocation and thirst as an ancestral feature. Probably for the sake of balance, these thematic features are held back.

Rules as written: An internal separator is a powerful tool for Android characters in Starfinder 2e, especially in environments with limited or no breathable air. Holding breath for an additional hour is invaluable in underwater exploration, space travel, or other environments with limited oxygen. The character can adapt to a wide range of environments, from the ocean's depths to the vacuum of space.

In combat, the character can use their extended breath-holding ability to retreat to a safer location or to ambush enemies from underwater or other concealed positions.

Internal Respirator Feat 9

Android

Your body can internally synthesize oxygen for limited periods. When you hold your breath, you can do so for an additional hour by rebreathing from your internal air reservoirs. At the end of this hour, your air reservoirs are expended. Refilling your empty air reservoirs takes 10 minutes of exposure to breathable air.

Adventuring with Vacuum Support

• Deep Sea Salvage: A shipwreck or a submerged research facility holds valuable technology or information. The android's ability to breathe underwater for extended periods makes them the ideal candidate for exploring the depths and retrieving the prize.

• Space Station Emergency: A space station is experiencing a catastrophic air leak. The android must navigate the damaged station, seal the breach, and rescue any surviving crew members while relying on their internal air supply.

• Alien Ruins Exploration: An ancient alien complex is discovered with a breathable atmosphere that is toxic to other species. The android's internal respirator allows them to explore the ruins safely, uncovering the secrets of a long-lost civilization.

• Underwater City Intrigue: A hidden underwater city is embroiled in a political conflict. The android's ability to blend in with other aquatic races and their extended underwater breathing time make them the perfect spy or diplomat.

• Mining Operation Sabotage: A mining operation on a gas giant is experiencing mysterious equipment failures. The android's ability to operate in low-oxygen environments allows them to investigate the cause of the sabotage and stop those responsible.

Veteran Space Droid  Tradesperson 9

White	Blue	Medium
Humanoid	Android	Construct

Veteran Space Droids are the unsung heroes of the Pact Worlds and beyond, their advanced synthetic minds and tireless bodies dedicated to keeping the ships and stations of the galaxy running smoothly. They are the troubleshooters, the repair experts, and the jury-riggers, possessing a deep understanding of technology and an innate ability to adapt to the challenges of life in the void.

VSDs have typically spent years, if not decades, honing their skills in the field. They've seen it all, from routine maintenance to catastrophic system failures, and they have the experience and expertise to handle any situation. VSDs are known for their ability to think on their feet and come up with creative solutions to problems. They're not afraid to get their hands dirty and are always willing to go the extra mile to get the job done.

While large corporations or organizations may employ some VSDs, many prefer the freedom of working as independent contractors. This allows them to choose their own jobs, set their own rates, and explore the galaxy on their own terms. Once a VSD commits to a job, they'll see it through to the end. They're fiercely loyal to their crewmates and will do whatever it takes to keep them safe. 

VSDs are problem solvers. When faced with a challenge, they'll use their knowledge and ingenuity to find a solution  A VSD's years of experience are a valuable asset. They can offer insights and advice that other characters may not have considered. VSDs are fiercely loyal to their crewmates. They'll put themselves in harm's way to protect those they care about.

Recall Knowledge - Humanoid (Society): DC 23

Unspecific Lore: DC 21

Specific Lore: DC 18

Perception +21

Skills Acrobatics +20, Athletics +18, Crafting +18, Deception +18, Diplomacy +18, Stealth +20

Str +3, Dex +6, Con +3, Int +3, Wis +4, Cha +4

Activate—Thrust  (Move)  Requirements in a Zero-G environment; 

Effect: The Droid moves 10 feet in any direction.

Nanite Surge  (Android, Tech)  Frequency once per hour; Effect: The VSD overclocks their nanites as they attempt a skill. They gain a +2 status bonus to that skill. Afterward, their circuits emit a glow in a 10 ft radius.

Internal Rebreathers When the VSD holds its breath, it can rebreathe for an additional hour from its internal air reservoirs. 

Items: Advanced Armored Coat (Comercial Fire Shielding, Tactical Thermal Capacitor), Tactical Creator Capsule, Tactical Maneuver Unit, Crowbar, Advanced Semi-Auto Pistol,

AC 27; Fort +15, Ref +21, Will +18

HP 155; Resistances Fire 6

Protective Sub-Routine The Droid can activate Nanite Surge when they attempt a saving throw instead of when you attempt a skill check. If you do, you gain a +2 status bonus to the triggering saving throw.

Speed 30ft

Melee  crowbar +19, Damage 2d8+11 bludgeoning

Ranged  auto pistol +19, Damage 2d8+11 piercing

RSAs in the Alcyon Sector

• Hiring Their Services: PCs might need to hire a VSD for a variety of reasons:

• Ship Repairs: If their ship suffers damage or a critical system failure, a VSD would be the ideal person to call for repairs.

• Technical Expertise: When facing a complex technological problem, like hacking a security system or deciphering alien technology, a VSD's knowledge and skills could be invaluable.

• Jury-Rigging: In a pinch, a VSD's ability to improvise and create makeshift solutions could mean the difference between success and failure.

• Seeking Information: VSDs, with their years of experience and extensive travels, could be a source of valuable information.

• Technical Knowledge: They might have insights into specific technologies, ship systems, or even the inner workings of certain organizations.

• Local Gossip: VSDs often frequent spaceports and stations, picking up rumors and news from across the galaxy.

• Contacts: Their network of contacts could be useful for the PCs to gain access to resources or information.

• Forming Partnerships: A VSD could become a recurring ally or even a party member.

• Shared Goals: If the PCs and a VSD share similar goals or interests, they could form a mutually beneficial partnership.

• Loyalty and Dependability: A VSD's loyalty and dependability make them trustworthy allies in dangerous situations.

• Unique Perspective: Their perspective as an android could offer unique insights and solutions to problems.

• Conflict and Tension: Not all interactions with VSDs would be positive.

• Differing Goals: A VSD's goals or motivations might conflict with those of the PCs, leading to tension or even outright hostility.

• Corporate Ties: A VSD working for a corporation might be forced to act against the PCs' interests.

Prejudice: Sadly, prejudice against androids still exists in the Starfinder universe, and PCs might encounter VSDs who have been mistreated or discriminated against.