Scavengers
Opportunistic pirates who strip the void for profit and survival.
The Scavengers are opportunistic pilots and crews who roam the outer systems of the galaxy, living off the wreckage of dead ships. Unlike the major powers engaged in the galactic war, they remain largely independent, motivated by profit, salvage, and survival rather than political ideology. They frequently ambush passing vessels to strip them for parts or demand tribute.
- Affiliation
- Independent
- Primary Role
- Enemy Faction / Event Encounter
- Signature Weaponry
- Missiles and Flamethrowers
- Typical Ship Size
- Small to Medium
- Combat Style
- Boarding and Missile Spam
Lore & Background
Their crews are hardened survivors accustomed to close-quarters combat. They favor flamethrowers for clearing out enemy hulls during boarding actions because fire spreads quickly in enclosed spaces. While they lack the advanced technology of the Engi or the biological enhancements of the Mantis, their ships are often fast and unpredictable, capable of launching missile volleys that overwhelm weaker shields.
In Their Own Story
Captain Vex wiped grease from his goggles as the derelict hull floated silently in the dark. His crew moved through the airlock, scavenging fuel cells and intact weapon modules. A proximity alarm blared—another ship had entered the sector. Vex gripped his flamethrower, signaling the team to secure the salvage. They weren't here for war; they were here to live another day.
Reader's Guide
Scavengers are primarily encountered as enemy factions during random events in space rather than playable starting options. Their ships typically feature high missile launchers and low shield capacity, forcing players to manage incoming projectile threats carefully. In combat, Scavengers frequently attempt boarding actions using crew members equipped with flamethrowers. Players must prioritize clearing the bridge or engine room to prevent system sabotage. Some events allow players to bribe Scavenger crews for passage or supplies instead of fighting. Their aesthetic is distinct, featuring green armor and ships constructed from mismatched scrap parts. Defeating them yields standard loot, but engaging them often triggers additional encounters with derelict ships nearby.
Did You Know?
- Scavengers are one of the few factions that rely heavily on missiles rather than energy weapons for ship-to-ship combat.
- Their crew members frequently carry flamethrowers as their primary melee weapon during boarding actions.
- They do not align with either the Rebellion or the Federation, focusing solely on salvage and survival.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the Scavengers?
They are independent opportunists who roam the outer systems to strip wreckage for parts and profit rather than fighting for political ideology.
How do they fight in combat?
Their crews rely on missile spam, flamethrowers, and boarding parties to overwhelm opponents using small to medium-sized vessels.
When do players encounter them?
They frequently ambush ships during the early sectors of the campaign or appear as random hostile events throughout the galaxy.
Can you resolve encounters peacefully?
During their specific ambush event, players may choose to pay credits or fuel instead of fighting to avoid damage.
What is their role in the game's lore?
They represent the lawless nature of the void between major powers and highlight the desperation of life outside the war zones.
More in Factions & Foes
Elsewhere in the FTL Faster Than Light universe
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