Parallel universe

A parallel universe is an alternate dimension to the Universe in which Roger Wilco lives or an alternate reality within the Universe.

Background

Earth is said to be in a parallel universe to the SQ3 time zone that can be accessed by the local black hole. It may be crossed through some time and dimensional barrier (aka time and space) through the black hole. Although others claim that earth is merely in another galaxy (this however doesn't preclude there being multiple earths in several parallel universes). The SQC places the blackhole to Earth as a wormhole to several centuries in the past and across dimensions (which may suggest that time travel is somewhat related to inter-dimensional travel perhaps like passing between the coils on a spring, with each coil representing another point in time and alternate dimension).

The Restaurant Universe is another parallel universe that intersects with the known Universe.

The Daventry Zone is a place beyond time, space, and dimensions.

Others exist such as the Q Continuum and the Mirror Universe (a parallel universe home to evil twins).

Monolith Burger is said to have 2.5 million stores scattered across the known universes.

Thanks to a number of changes caused by time travel (Roger Wilco, Two Guys From Andromeda, Sludge Vohaul and the Sequel Police, and the Time Rippers, etc) there are number of parallel timelines that have apparently formed around Roger Wilco's exploits ("past or pasts"), but how they interrelate to each other is unclear (There also appears to be a level of 'self correction' in which all the minor universe deviations try to merge back into a single proper timeline).

Roger Wilco points out that the sequel police were searching through his past (and pasts) for him. Indicating that his past had divided into multiple universes.

List of universes

The divisions can be described as such.

Graphics and Resolution universes

The Space Quest series have always made callbacks to previous games, or even homages to other Sierra series in some way, breaking the fourth wall and treating them as past historical eras (listed by previous game's name). However, it wasn't until Space Quest IV, that the idea that each game existing as not only as historical eras, but also as obsoleted graphical styles and technological limitations (and not just 'artistic license'). I.E. SQ3 era is in SCIEGA graphics style in SQ4, SQ1 shows up in AGI graphics style, and other eras are in VGA graphics style. Otherwise things 'evolve' over time, the Orium seemingly becomes more detailed inventory item between SQ2 and SQ3, the Aluminum Mallard becomes more detailed between SQ3 and SQ4, etc. Yet in some cases it also appears to be distinct 'changes' due to time travel or has been described as such (see the Space Quest Companion), and SQ6 shows elements from earlier games that are completely and physically different from their earlier game universe counterparts again suggesting yet alternate past in higher resolutions (again perhaps suggesting that art styles are artistic license). SQ6 only makes one reference suggesting Roger or at least the player remembers lower resolution version of SQ4. Even Roger (and other reoccurring characters) appears to 'change' (graphically and visually) throughout the series, although he doesn't seem to notice any physical changes to himself (but those appearances exist in the various alternate versions of history). Some versions of the games even include monochrome versions/settings such as Hercules graphics, or 320x200 monochrome mode.

SQ5 also suggests that the stability and resolution of the universe is controlled through technology such as the VGA-EGA Interlock.

The novels seen in The Space Quest Companion and The Official Guide To Roger Wilco's Space Adventures exist more in what is supposed to be considered 'historical reality' at least from Roger Wilco's POV. The games are considered games, based on his 'real life' experiences. As such for most part the ideas of resolutions and color do not mean much to him. The exception being in the Space Quest 4 story when visiting SQ1 era, he admits in both to either things changing before and becoming flat, or being flat to begin with (as a reference to lower resolution, and less colors). Otherwise the stories seem to go with idea that things would be how he experiences things from his 'human' eyes (some say human eye resolution is 576 megapixels), like most humans experience their own lives.

SQ1 universes

SQ1AGI

• SQ1AGI 1.0x (EGA, CGA (4 color/16 color), hercules (monochrome)) (Droids R Us).
• SQ1AGI 2.0 (EGA, CGA (4 color/16 color), Hercules, Apple IIe/IIc, Apple IIGS, etc) (Droids B Us, ALLTA timeline).
• SQ1AGI in SQ4 (versions vary by system and setting): Variant of SQ1 which appears in the SQ4 versions (It's supposed to smell like a Wallmart Force Field Generating Unit, but we could only do 16 different odors in EGA so it smells a lot like the time pod.).

SQ1SCI

• SQ1SCI (SQ1VGA (256 color), SQ1EGA (16 color), SQ1Amiga (32 color)) (ZZ Top edition) SQ1VGA is considered the main variant of this reimagining/alternate universe version of the original game's story.
• SQ1SCIVGA (Collection version) (VGA-only, see Space Quest Collection CDs)(Two midgets and an elephant nosed alien band)
• SQ1SVGA (only appears in details given in SQ6).

The difference between ZZ Top or their cover band might be seen as a minor difference between SQ1VGA versions.

SQ1 novels

• SQ1 as told by Roger in The Official Guide To Roger Wilco's Space Adventures (1nd Edition) (inspired by SQ1AGI, but not necessarily AGI graphics in account, he is surprised by flat details in later SQ4 account)

• SQ1 as told by Roger in The Official Guide To Roger Wilco's Space Adventures (2nd Edition) (inspired by SQ1VGA)

• SQ1 as told by Roger in The Space Quest Companion (1st and 2nd Editions) (the telling of SQ1 is based on SQ1VGA version, but the version in SQ4 novel is based on SQ1AGI version seen in SQ4.)

SQ2 universes

• SQ2AGI (EGA, CGA, Hercules)

• SQ2VGA (Hypothetical SQ1EGA/SQ1VGA universes seem to exist in the parallel timelines, the closest contender comes from the more detailed version of the game's story and events found in two official novelizations (in Companion and Official Guide (2nd Edition), he is surprised and confused about the 'flat and two-dimensional' appearance of SQ1 time sector (having lived through more detailed universe). Secondly in the Companion the Dialect Translator he uses in SQ2 is the same one he used back in SQ1SCI VGA/EGA))

• SQ2SCI EGA (only as details appear in in SQ3, enhanced 240x320 graphics version of the Vohaul's escape pod and orium gem)

• SQ2SVGA (only in details appearing in SQ6)

• Two or three different accounts in the novelizations. These aren't necessarily tied to 'graphics', and offer more detailed versions of the events outside of the game's stories.

SQ3 universes

• SQ3EGA (it has EGA/CGA, and Hercules modes) SQ4 also revisits this location. This occurred at the time new SCIEGA universe with an increase of graphical resolution and detail. As such there is change to the Orium chunk in detail and graphical fidelity. A version of this appears in SQ4 as a secret time zone.

• SQ3VGA (details only appear in SQ5, and enhanced elements in SQ4 such as Aluminum Mallard's evolution)

• SQ3SVGA (details only appearing in SQ6).

• Three different accounts in the novelizations. These aren't really tied to 'graphics', and offer more detailed versions of the events outside of the game's stories. Two are mostly the same, but there are some changes between the two editions of the Official Guide accounts including introduction of StarCon into the backstories (replacing references to Space Fleet, and some other editing or extended materials).

There is no evidence of existence of SQ3AGI universe, albeit reference to Rogers past (and pasts) in companion may allow for any number of alternate pasts, and unseen universe versions.

SQ4 universes

• SQ4 floppy (SQ4VGA, SQ4EGA, SQ4Amiga) The VGA version is considered the main version of this release (though there is definite influence on the game's story text and universe dependent on which version is played.).
• SQ4CD (VGA and 640x480 EGA mode) Included a number of alternate universe changes to narrator and locations.
• SQ4SVGA (details appearing in sq6).
• Two or three different accounts in the novelizations. SQ4 accounts do reference the changes in graphics in the visited timelines in the SQ4 chapter, and both offer more detailed versions of the events outside of the game's stories.

SQ5 universes

• SQ5VGA
• SQ5EGA which only appears if a certain fuse is pulled on board the Eureka (or 640 x 480 EGA mode if using special driver).
• SQ5SVGA (inspired by Roger's costume and appearance in the prologue, Companion and Official Guide accounts)
• Two different accounts in the novelizations. These aren't really tied to 'graphics', and offer more detailed versions of the events outside of the game's stories.
• A third novelized account found in the first edition of The Space Quest Companion, portraying Roger's time on an alternate Thrakus.

SQ6 universe

• SQ6 Demo
• SQ6

Takes place in a new SVGA universe (and elements of the earlier games are portrayed in the new graphic resolution).

There is a callback to the old VGA resolutions:

It looks a lot more detailed than it did in SQ4, that's for sure.

Influences & variations

The variants of various color and resolution universes, cause minor differences such as Roger speaking to Monochrome Boys while he himself having originated from an EGA, VGA, Amiga or Monochrome universe. The monochrome boys will acknowledge his appearance.

Monochrome Boy: Well, lookee here! If it ain't Mr. "Look-at-me-I'm-in-EGA". Hey, fellas, I bet I can toss him all the way up from the bottom of the stairs.

Monochrome Boy: What's this? 256 colors all for one little bitmapped wimp? What a waste of EGA, ha ha.

Monochrome Boy: Well, lookee here! If it ain't Mr. "Look-at-me-I'm-in-32-colors".

Monochrome Boy: What's this? You'd have to be a blitherin' idiot to waste all that color on one little bitmapped wimp, ha ha.

Time travelers may suffer from multidimensional dementia. The symptoms may involve talking to books concerning time travel.

The differences between SQ1SCI VGA, EGA & Amiga or between SQ4VGA, SQ4 EGA, or SQ4 Amiga could be considered largely minor. Though each version of SQ4SCI has differences depending on which graphic version is being used, and which system as to how the Monochrome Boys insult Roger. Each of these are a minor parallel universe.

Documentation Changes

The relevance of documentation is ignored in later versions (or even retconned), replacing earlier versions documentation with new documentation, and some details are dropped or changed between releases. For variations of how documentation affects things see list of timelines.

To understand this phenomena it might first be best to understand that documentation, advertisements, boxes, etc were produced by the marketing and advertising departments, and may have little input by the game developers themselves. Some materials became irrelevant with changes between media, or due to copyright potential lawsuit issues...

• Space Piston Magazine for SQ4 was made obsolete since the CD-Rom dropped copy protection, and many of the places in the Galaxy Galleria mall changed names. There was no reason to continue publishing it (it was probably expensive to publish), and they replaced it with new manual specific to the CD-Rom which added a new backstory synopses and a letter from Roger Wilco himself talking about his adventures up to SQ4.

• SQ2's Space Piston Comic was dropped from later releases, instead only including the basic SQ2 manual insert that came with the original comic (which has a brief backstory for the game). Later collections dropped that manual altogether to include an alternate collection manual with basic synopses of the games backstory.

• SQ1SCI manual was rewritten and changed details from the original SQ1AGI manual. For both manuals to be dropped by the collections to be replaced with brief newly-written synopses of the games instead.

• The same occurred with SQ4CD, SQ5, and SQ6 once they were released in the CD collections.

All of these changes, have lead to various 'alternate universe' versions of events. Raising and lowering relevance of certain details.

The Space Quest Anniversary Collection, Space Quest: Unclogged Collection, and Space Quest: Collector's Series changed some of the backstories for the copy protection for SQ5 instead including the in-flight Planetary Coordinates Chart, rather than the codes being hidden in Gir Draxon's predictions as they were in the Galactic Inquirer. SQ6 copy protection is listed as such, and just includes the element chart, without any ties to being part of a magazine article originally, and the puzzle is introduced differently in the manual (more as a 'tech document').

The GOG releases includes scans of six manuals (SQ1VGA, Space Piston SQ2, SQ3, Space Piston SQ4, Galactic Inquirer SQ5, and Popular Janitronics (SQ6) as extras (even if for example the manual for SQ4 "Space Piston isn't needed, nor accurate to the CD-Rom version itself, which is part of the collection). It doesn't come with any version of the Collection manuals.

localizations

Localizations lead to interesting parallel differences. See SQ5F transcript and SQ5G transcript as examples.

Timelines

Long timelines are those in which the series takes place longer than one century, while short time olines are those that take place within the same century.

Original version (timelines that begin with SQ1AGI)

Short timelines

• TOGTRWSA1E timeline (1st edition)
• SQ1AGI timeline (this is the timeline covering SQ1AGI to SQ4 Floppy as appears in 1987-1990 sierra catalogues, and is simlar to The Official Guide To Roger Wilco's Space Adventures (1st Edition))
• SQ1AGI non-linear timeline (SQ10 occurs before SQ1AGI/SQ2/SQ3/SQ4/SQ5/SQ6/SQ12)
• Hoyle timeline

Long timelines

• ALTA timeline (A long, long time ago... timeline, SQ1 1987 box, SQ3 commercial, 2006 Collection box, and SQ1+2+3 GOG collection.)
• SQ1AGI non-linear ALLTA timeline (SQ1AGI/SQ2 occur in a long, long time ago in 11th century, SQ3/SQ4/SQ10 occurs in the 24th century, & SQ5/SQ6/SQ12 occurs the 31st century)
• SQ1AGI&SQ3Ad non-linear timeline ((SQ1-4/10 occur in the 24th century, and SQ5/6 occur in the 31st century)
• Collection timeline (based on on anniversary, unclogged, and collection series version manuals, and references in Please Read First by John Williams, and other material related to those collection releases)
• SM timeline (Scott Murphy conceptual material timeline, series ends with SQ4/SQ10/SQ12 eras)

Alternate version (timelines that begin with SQ1VGA)

Short timelines

• TOGTRWSA2E timeline (2nd edition)
• Saga timeline (this is the timeline that covers from SQ1VGA to SQ4 floppy, as appears in the Space Quest Saga collection and 1991/1992 Sierra Catalogue, as well as the previous Trilogy collection SQ1VGA - SQ3, and related catalogues)
• SQ4CD timeline (the 'alternate version' timeline established in SQ4CD manual and changes to the game, it follows from the SQ1SCI universe according to the manual)
• GI timeline (based on the Galactic Inquirer dating, seems to ignore SQ4/10 dating)
• PJ timeline (based on Popular Janitronics, SQ6 Hintbook, and SQ6, seems to ignore all previous dating systems).
• SQ1SCI non-linear timeline (SQ10 takes place before SQ1VGA/SQ2/SQ3/SQ4CD/SQ5/SQ6/SQ12 eras)

Long timelines

• Companion timeline
• Collection timeline (based on on anniversary, unclogged, and collection series version manuals, and references given in Please Read First by John Williams.)
• SQ1SCI&SQ3Ad non-linear timeline (based on the date for SQ3 given in SQ3 ads, SQ3/SQ4/SQ10 takes place before SQ1VGA/SQ2/SQ5/SQ6/SQ12 eras)
• TimeLine

Other

• SQ1 timeline (discussion and comparisons on the various game only timelines created by marketing and remake of this game, and the time sector in SQ4)
• SQ3 timeline (discussion and comparisons on the two main timelines created by marketing for this game)
• SQ4 timeline (discussion and comparisons on the two main timelines created for this game in the floppy vs CD releases, covering all eras in the game)
• SQ5 timeline (SQ5/Colletctions inspired timeline (No Galactic Inquirer), does not relate to later releases of the game see Space Quest Collections)
• SQ6 timeline (SQ6/Collection inspired timeline (No Popular Janitronics), comparisons of different releases of the game up to the version released in the Space Quest Collections)
• Stardate timeline (attempts at calculating space quest stardates using Star Trek stardate methods)
• Comic timeline
• Development timeline

Alternate solutions

Space Quest 1, Space Quest II, and Space Quest 3 have many 'alternate' solution paths such as how to take out Arnoid in SQ3. Or the two alternate ways to take out Orat, and Spider Droids. Or the two alternate ways to escape the 'trunk room' in SQ1. Or alternate ways to get into the landing platform in SQ2 (there are three different methods). The middle is discussed in the two competing novelization guides.

Important Timelines

These originate as some of the most detailed of the timelines originating from the evolution of the games, the novelizations, and other source material.

Prime Timeline

In the concept of multiversal and time travel in science fiction the concept of 'prime universe' is the idea of it being the original universe a traveler is from.

From the perspective of the games this could be the original SQ1AGI (particularly 1986 version).

However in the novels it appears more so from perspective of 'future reality', that the games are based on reality or realities from the future. Therefore the real stories exist in 'our prime universe' rather than the games universes, or at least a universe very close to our own, that will happen depending on choices made by ancestors or other time travelers. In the Companion Roger Wilco acknowledges that he has a past (or pasts) in his history (acknowledging the possibility that he himself isn't necessarily the 'prime' version of himself). Whereas in the Official Guide, the first edition would certainly be more likely to be 'prime' in relation to the second edition with its changes and adaptation into SQ1VGA timeline.

In the games depending on the game, Earth is a secondary universe with Roger's universe being his prime (as seen in SQ3). But others there is apparently an Earth in their dimension, and future (see SQ6), it just may not be in 'our universe'.

SQ1VGA could suggest the game universe it exists within the 'mirror universe' from Star Trek, or at least it's a universe that has connections with the Terran Empire.

Timeline A (AGI/EGA universes)

There are three variations, but at least two of them appear to based round the choice of touching the Don't Touch button and/or a trip to Daventry. Both of these "choices" were recorded in Space Quest: The Sarien Encounter.

a. This timeline consists of Space Quest I: The Sarien Encounter (original version) time sector up to Space Quest IV: Roger Wilco and the Time Rippers (time sector) (and other related time sectors). In this timeline Roger Wilco experienced the original version of Space Quest I era twice (chronicled in The Official Guide To Roger Wilco's Space Adventures (1st Edition)). It should be noted that there are certain details that might indicate that 1st edition account might also contain slight deviations from the universe in SQ1 as well (an additional corpse of Willie near Andy in the upstairs hallways in the Arcada (original version)). None of the villains are related in this universe: Elmo Pug (original version) is not related to the Vohauls in this universe (neither is Raemes Tipper Quirk (original version)). At least in the Guidebook version of this timeline only a few months passed between SQ2 and SQ3. Quirk is only 38 in this timeline. Less than a few days may have passed between end of SQ1, and Roger being hired at XOS4 (or he might have been hired up to a year after). Either way he either made movies/was interviewed between SQ1 and start of SQ2, or during his spare time when he wasn't busy doing his janitorial work.

b. In this minor variation of the prime timeline Roger Wilco actually managed to push the "Do Not Touch" button and ended up going back in time and crashing into Castle Daventry's moat. Roger Wilco 'remembers' this event, however it seems as if he was able to correct this situation, and returned to the original timeline defeating the Sariens, Sludge Vohaul, and the Pirates of Pestulon. This variant was roughly recorded and confirmed in Hoyle: Book of Games, Vol. 1. This Roger also discusses elements of the Xenon invasion in between SQ3 and 4. However, he inadvertently changed his past (during his time in Daventry) in as much that he apparently did not go to 'college' in this timeline as well (butterfly effect?)..

c. This represents Space Quest I: The Sarien Encounter (original version) time sector itself regardless of if Roger reached it through timeline A or Timeline B, or via Timeline C (variant b.). It includes minor differences from the original version of the era Tiny's Shop has a different name, the planet and sun are called Ulence (rather than Kerona), the droid shop has had time to file Chapter XI bankruptcy, the monochrome boys have shown up! and a few other differences.

Roger Wilco in the Space Quest AGI and EGA games, and other early games/versions

In the backstory this timeline; Roger Wilco (original version) is a bit more 'competent' in that during his first adventure he chose to stay put and wait for safe moment before he chooses to brave leaving the closet. He realizes what happening around him instantly, and decides he must not only find a way to escape and save himself, but also that he is honor-bound to save the rest of the galaxy as well. The manual is also quick to point out he has great imagination and wits, and low cunning to get past his problems.

Further more following up on this timeline, both SQ2 Hintbook/SQ2 Manual treats Roger Wilco as a brave janitor, fairly intelligent (quick witted/superb wit/low cunning/imaginative, courageous and honorable individual), though klutzy.

Timeline B (SQ4/novel universes)

This timeline is largely the same as Timeline A, except that the influence of time travel in Timeline A, both a. and b. and possibly including future time travel events after SQ4 (Roger attempting to send his Memoirs into the past for example). During the events of SQ4 (and related time sectors) Roger Wilco ends up traveling back to Space Quest I: The Sarien Encounter (original version) time sector (but everything seems new to him, as he only remembers the alternate VGA past) Note, however, that 'a' version of Timeline B may actually be the same or alternative version of Timeline C (as it may have started out VGA and lost resolution to the original version before his eyes, similar to how photos lose imagery in Back to the Future, due to shifts in time).

a. This timeline begins with Space Quest I: Roger Wilco in the Sarien Encounter (time sector) in which his original adventure had turned "VGA" and is known to go up to at least Space Quest V. This includes the events of Timeline B as recorded in The Space Quest Companion. A few character name differences, some characters having different genders, and slightly different destruction of the Spider Droid. From Roger's perspective his archives represent the events of his actual history (the games are simply based on that history with some artistic changes). This is the timeline in which Roger Wilco sent back to the past in data tapes in an attempt to ensure that his past happens to ensure that he exists in the future (but even this act may have lead to other minor changes (which maybe able to be broken down into sub timelines). Bo mysteriously changes sexes compared to the original version era, becoming female. This universe connects the Vohaul's with the Quirk and Pug families. This timeline spreads out the years between SQ2 and SQ3 (around a century), Quirk is much older than he was in the prime timeline (also over a century old). This can be known as the Companion timeline.

b. This timeline begins with Space Quest I: Roger Wilco in the Sarien Encounter (time sector) in which his original adventure has gone "VGA" and is known to go up to at least Space Quest V. This includes the events of Timeline B as recorded in The Official Guide To Roger Wilco's Space Adventures (2nd Edition). Different Spider Droid death, different crew on the Arcada (as explained in 1st Edition), and a few other differences. This more or less follows the games versions of I (VGA) to V with very few deviations. Unlike timeline B. a. only a few months pass between SQ2 and SQ3. This can be known as the TOGTRWSA timeline (both original version and alternate version of this timeline more or less overlap as far as time between time sectors).

Note:. In both timelines ultimately leaves Kerona/Ulence safely and travels to other eras. Both known archives only cover up to Space Quest V.

Roger Wilco in the Space Quest VGA and SVGA games

These timelines cover the history of Roger Wilco (alternate version), a slightly less intelligent, less courageous version of the character.

Timeline C (SQ1VGA universes)

a. In this Timeline it begins with Space Quest I: Roger Wilco in the Sarien Encounter (time sector) presumably goes up to Space Quest IV, but in this universe Roger Wilco ends up going back to the VGA time sector (rather than the EGA timeline) shortly after Roger Wilco blasted off in a stolen vessel, and unfortunately appearing just as the ship's owner is looking for who stole his ship. The outcome of this timeline is not clear. But it is assumed he made it out of the situation alive, and was able to still stop Vohaul and save his son. This is largely covered in Space Quest I: Roger Wilco in the Sarien Encounter and mainly introducing the second Roger appearance into the VGA alternate timeline. This may also include a SQ3VGA era as hinted in SQ5 (see Space Quest III - The Pirates of Pestulon (alternate version)), and a SQ2VGA time sector (implied in the Companion).

b. A possible alternative version of this becomes the Space Quest I: The Sarien Encounter (original version) (from the Space Quest Companion). It seems that when Roger first appeared in his timepod in the original version time sector things appeared to be as he remembered them (in VGA), but he seems to noticeably see things lose resolution before his eyes, and change into the original version time sector. He of course does not get mugged in this time sector (although there are certain differences with his recorded 'original version' time sector and the version portrayed in the original SQ1). Hence its possible that a. and b. are simply the same situation. As we don't know what happens in the minutes after Roger leaves the planet, and time traveling Roger appears, its possible for it to simply become the second from future Roger's perspective. The only thing that makes this different is that Roger doesn't seem to notice the mugger directly near him, and he most likely landed in the time zone in the same place Roger lands in SQ4 game. Another difference Roger records is that the Bartender is female, rather than male (as he is in the prime timeline), or at least Roger is not very good at telling alien's genders apart. This may also include a SQ3VGA era as hinted in SQ5 (see Space Quest III - The Pirates of Pestulon (alternate version)), and a SQ2VGA time sector (implied in the Companion).

These timelines also cover the history of Roger Wilco (alternate version), a slightly less intelligent, less courageous version of the character.

Timeline D (SVGA universe)

This is a alternate timeline introduced Space Quest 6, is a conversion of earlier games to SVGA universe (SQ1SVGA, SQ2SVGA, SQ3SVGA, SQ4SVGA, SQ5SVGA, and SQ6 itself). See Future's past. Some additional changes include Roger receiving a Official Employment Rejection Letter from Sierra, rather than just being told to go. Some of other changes include the appearances of certain inventory items changing from earlier types (such as Labion whistle having turned into a completely different kind of whistle.

This can be considered adventures of Roger Wilco (Future's past).

Comic Alternate Universe/Timeline ?

Then there is 'Timeline ?' for no better term which seems wholly separate from the Roger Wilco of the previous timelines (that is there is no indication that it has been created or influenced by the actions of Roger Wilco or Sludge Vohaul's time travel).

This is represented by the The Adventures of Roger Wilco: The Sarien Encounter comic.

This timeline is a strange mix of details merging both Timelime A and Timeline B along with its own major differences. A number of characters have alternate names and different personalities, there is a second survivor of the Arcada, Kerona's geography is a bit different than in both timelines but sharing elements of both. Ulence Flats is much larger city, there are alternate versions of various ships (including the Arcada and Deltaur).

This comic of course may just be a poor adaptation made for a holofilm, perhaps even the version starring Darth Lumix, or even a poor comic adaptation of the holofilm.

Or considering the detailed artwork, it could have ties to the SVGA universe.

Time sectors

Space Quest I SCI time sector

A minor difference between SQ1VGA timelines is slightly different versions one that has ZZ Top and another that has a different cover band. Otherwise nothing else is changed. There are slight differences in artwork between EGA and VGA versions of the remake, as far as 'color choices'.

In these timelines, Roger is treated as incompetent (while he he still has well-developed sense of preservation, but in addition to that he has an interesting set of priorities), it is explained that he ignored what was going on around him and tries to go back to sleep, but commotion prevents him from doing so, then when he finds himself brave enough to find out what happened. In addition do to his odd sense of priorities, he's more concerned with the mess the Sariens had made rather, than the predicament he is in (the narrator even also mocks his intelligence that this thought about the mess is an "...intensely deep thought (well deep for YOU)", and it isn't until he startled by a laser blast and a scream that he's brought back to reality of his situation, and he realizes he is in danger too. He is more concerned about escaping for his own selfish need for safety, and doesn't even think about the need to rescue his fellow Earnonians from the villain's threat. There is no motivation beyond his own 'survival', he's more lazy, and lacks courage, and more or less bumbles his way to saving the galaxy as a series of 'accidents' rather than something he intentionally planned (as in the prime universe). The SQ1SCI Hintbook more or less follows the more 'incompetent' Roger version timeline of the remake's manual, than the 'smarter/intelligent' of the original timeline.

Note: this incompetence only seems to be noted in the SCI/VGA manual/SQ1SCI Hintbook, as his own memoirs either in Official Book of Roger Wilco's Space Adventures, or Space Quest Companion, he has more of heroic/intelligent bent and decides he wants to save the universe fairly early on.

Space Quest II time sector

Slight variants between SQ2 versions in the game, Official Guide to Roger's Space Adventures, and the Companion. Mostly concerning his boss (Fubar Snafu).

a. In both SQ2 and Companion Roger talks to the boss on his communicator, and then runs into in the Command Center (his boss apparently shaved between the time on the communicator and his later physical appearance).

b. In the Official Guide to Roger's Space Adventures, Roger's Boss contacts Roger on his communicator, and Roger encounters one of his Boss's underlings in the command center (or at least he's extremely clueless and doesn't recognize him after his boss shaved). His boss might be a tad more sinister, having been in cahoots and taking revenge on Roger by intentionally sending Roger to the hanger bay to be captured by Vohaul's goons.

It's placement across a time line may very as well, with some sources suggesting that Roger was hired on XOS4 days after end of SQ1, or up to a year after (maybe according to Scott Murphy's own concept even more time passed up to a decade, between both games).

The "Dialect Translator" is a different translator than that seen in SQ1AGI (Official Guide), or its the same one seen in SQ1VGA (Companion).

There is an SVGA version of this timeline as shown in SQ6.

Generally speaking the novels don't tend to touch on 'resolutions' (with exception of SQ4), but also seem to treat Space Quest II time sector as far more detailed place itself through descriptions, than in the game itself was capable of being.

Space Quest III time sector

As mentioned there are essentially two or three versions of this story wise.

First is its point in time, one source placing the game around or before December, 3388 (of the 24th century). While other sources place it "a long time ago"/"far, far, ago" or variations of that in the distant past (possibly as early as the 11th century). Still others might suggest it occurred in 31st century.

Other variations include if it began months, year (or two) or century after SQ2.

Other variations include the motive/personality and background of Elmo Pug. In most versions he is his own thing (no known relatives), he only interested in making money, so he kidnaps Two Guys to help him make successful arcade games. He loses his job, and is not a threat after SQ3.

The Companion however makes him more sinister out to rule the universe, a relative of Sludge Vohaul, and his games are not merely to make money but for mind-control. SQ6 sort of undermines this version of the character.

In addition there is EGA (SQ3/SQ4), and VGA version of materials from this time sector/space sector as seen in SQ5, and SVGA version of this time sector as seen in SQ6.

Like other time sectors, the novelizations do not touch on the idea of graphic resolutions and describe things in generally more detail than in the game (and in same kind of detail that preceding novels cover). (The exception being that the novels for SQ4, do touch on 4th wall breaking graphic 'resolution' material, and Roger is generally surprised by the drop in resolution from his perspective, as if he hasn't seen it before).

Space Quest V time sector

The Galactic Inquirer isn't necessarily consistent with the in-game 'stardates' or other references to dating systems in earlier games. It only really applies to the original floppy version of the game, as collections drop the Inquirer replacing it with a different manual, and basic synopsis of the game, allowing for other timeline interpretations, and parallel universes.

The early Space Quest Collections (not GOG releases) includes different material for SQ5 in the Anniversary Manual, Unclogged, and Collection Series manuals. These have the in-flight Planetery Coordinates Chart which Roger was apparently given shortly after becoming a Captain and given his own ship.

The Space Quest V era may be divided into roughly two main timelines. However, there is a third alternate timeline of less importance involving Thrakus (which can be designated c. or "Alternate Thrakus"), however the two main timelines Thrakus is the same in both a. and b..

a. That which appears in Space Quest 5 the game, and roughly covered in "The Official Guide to Roger Wilco's Space Adventures". Roger runs into Nelo Jones in this timeline in the Space Bar.

b. The version as it appears in Space Quest Companion (and represents Roger's memories much later in his life, and influenced by multiple time travel changes from him, Vohaul, and others.) There are some variant character encounters. Roger runs into Ronko ProPeeler in this timeline in the Space Bar.

c. See alternate Thrakus.

Alternate Thrakus

Seen in the The Space Quest Companion, 1st Edition. See Excerpt from Space Quest V: Roger Wilco in the Next Mutation.

Space Quest IV: Roger Wilco and The Time Rippers (Space Quest X time sector)

Additionally SQ4 appears to split into roughly three slightly different timelines, largely affecting the Space Quest X: Latex Babes of Estros era. But it is rumored that these differences are largely due to another of Vohaul's petty revenges.

a. The original Floppy Version and Space Piston Magazine (and more or less The Official Guide To Roger Wilco's Space Adventures). This is the era with (Radio Shock). A different way of escaping the Sequel Police at the mall.

b. The CD-rom version, this is the era with Hz. So Good. Involves a different form of escape to from the Sequel Police than in a. There are some slight differences with some of the other timelines as well, such as Xenon in 12 being a bit 'brighter' in color. There is an alternate manual for SQ4 (the Space Pison Magazine is irrelevant) with a new synopsis and a letter by Roger Wilco.

c. The Space Quest Companion version with RadioActive Schlock and other alternate companies at the galaxy Galleria. This one however is closer to a.

The SQ4CD Manual places SQ4CD as a direct timeline off of SQ1SCI remake, see SQ4CD timeline (as does the 2006 and Legacy version collections). But some of the other versions & releases follow from AGI remake instead.

There are SVGA versions of the SQ10, SQ12 and SQ1 time sectors from this game as appears in SQ6.

Space Quest IV: The Coarsegold Encounter (time sector)

Space Quest IV: The Coarsegold Encounter an alternate sequel to SQ3 as referenced in Leisure Suit Larry series. This could tied to the Sarien invasion (mentioned by Roger in Hoyle I), and a side effect of touching the 'don't touch' button and ending up in Daventry (but still finding a way back to stop the sariens first time).

Space Quest VII: Return to Roman Numerals (time sector)

Space Quest VII: Return to Roman Numerals (time sector) and video is an alternate version of what Space Quest VII would have been about. Unfortunately it is all that exists for a SQ7 'story', with a 'premature ending' for the series with Roger's death crashing into a mountain, and with ajoke that the series would be cancelled.

SM: The deal with the demo is that it had nothing to do with what Space Quest 7 was supposed to be. It was merely eye candy for management (ugh) and for the Collection.

A Long Time Ago

The 1987 SQ1AGI box, SQ3 commercial, and 2006 Collection reinterprets the series as having taken place much in the way of Star Wars; "A Long, Long, Time Ago, in a Gallaxy, Far, Far Away".

Suggesting the series takes place long before 20th century earth's 'present'. The Collections allowed more for this interpretation by dropping all the extra documentation and including alternate documentation which includes brief synopses and basic copy protection and not much else. Leaving the order of the events and details of the stories to the games themselves.

This interpretation also allows for a few extra parallel universe timelnes as well.

24th century

While there are very few references to dates in early Space Quest games. An ad for SQ3 in 1987 Sierra catalogue, and references in SQ4/SQX suggest that the games take place in the 24th century. Or at least in SQ4's case Radio Shock is a business from the future selling products from the future to undefined 'past'/'present'.

For this to work, the SQ5 Galactic Inquirer and SQ6 Popular Janitronics would have to be ignored. Of course the collections already give an alternate manuals with brief synopses of the games, without any of the additional material, do away with any of extraneous material (and allowing for basic interpretation of 24th century to hold).

31st century

Only the Galactic Inquirer and Popular Janitronics set the series in the 31st century. Forcing one to largely ignore most references to 24th century (as referring to past, or time travel influenced). This is most problematic with the dating of Space Quest 10, which implies not only is SQ10 set in 24th century, that years like 2800, and 2700 are 'yet to come'.

SQ1VGA might support 31 century or at least later than 24th century in that it makes reference to the 24th and half century being in the past.

One way to get around might be to consider the the possibility that SQX takes place before SQ1VGA, generally before the rest of the games. But this is problematic with info in the Popular Janitronics about the opening of the Galaxy Galleria (and Monolith Burger needing an assistant) clear references to SQX era.

In collections new documentation, there are no references to the 31st century included, allowing for alternative interpretations for the series going by the games only.

The Galactic Inquirer might suggest all the games take place in early 31st century, while Popular Janitronics seems to play all the games into the late 31st century, or even into early 32nd.

Self-correction

All the main variations (and minor variations) all at least appear to merge back into a general timeline following the changes in time, space and dimension, as if the timeline tries to self correct itself. Thus ultimately future space quests still occur (SQ4, 5 or 6, etc). Archives in SQ6 may make references to elements that exist from all three main variations (and an SVGA version of the events as well).

Dates of when the games take place (past, present or future), or how much time passes between each one are of least importance, as there are many various versions and interpretations, but rather the order of the games, and how it affect's Roger's life moving forward. Even short, or long versions, and both linear or non-linear interpretations of the timelines essentially 'correct' themselves back to the general flow of events.

However based on how different alternate universe '?' is from the rest of the parallel universes, it is unlikely that it would self correct in the same way as any other timeline, as it contains a number of large differences; Kerona, Xenon, etc are located in the Milky Way, Keronians are not xenophobic, nor secretive, having political positions of power throughout the galaxy (are related to the Sariens), there was another survivor from the Arcada who took Roger Wilco's glory from him, and even Sludge Vohaul's backstory and Professor Frye (replacing Slash Vohaul) changing the future of that timeline.

Some parallel universes move into Space Quest IV: The Coarsegold Encounter rather than Space Quest IV: Roger Wilco and the Time Rippers. It is unknown if these 'self-correct' back into regular Space Quest V, or remain as a split off timeline.

See also

• Timelines
• Original version
• Alternate version
• Future's past
• Time sectors
• Stardates
• Universe
• Dimensions
• Multiverse (universes)
• Future
• Present
• Past

Behind the scenes

The concept of timelines and multiple dimensions is something discussed and mentioned throughout the games themselves. One of the first appearances is a mention in Space Quest III, when Roger travels back to Earth. Space Quest 4 introduced the idea of changing history or stopping others from changing history.

The Companion discusses the idea of there being other changes and influences by both Roger and others interactions. Including the concept of him being partially aware of the changes, or seeing the changes occur before his eyes.

Official Guide to Roger Wilco's Space Adventures

Despite being roughly a more direct adaptation of game events and details (no humor intentional character or place renaming, or simply Roger's embellishments as he is aught to do) their are a number of ways it seemingly differs from the universe of the games or the Companion's version of the universe. However, its largely almost boringly consistant to the games. Between the two books the universe is more or less split between timeline variants as mentioned above. With SQ1 EGA appearing in first edition, and SQ1 VGA appearing in the 2nd edition.

Some details such as his boss (Fubar Snafu in the Companion) seemingly split into two different characters: the first being the bearded individual who calls him on the radio and the non bearded individual who appears before him once he enters XOS IV's command center. I the game its heavily implied they are the same character, and the Companion takes this route as well (presumably he shaves between the time Roger gets dressed and reaches the command center). There may be a few additional 'differences' for certain characters who appear, but it is mostly accurate "first person narrative monologue of the events of the games.

In the Guide Dialect Translator (second version) is not the same as the Gadget (Dialect Translator (original version)). Whereas in the Compaion, the Inter-Galactic All Species Dialect Translator is the same in both stories, he found it in one and brought it along into the second. I the game they look nothing alike and there is no indication either way, if it's the same one, or a different one. Only SQ6 assumes he carried one since SQ1, but it looks nothing like either the original SQ1 or its remake (Dialect Translator (future version))...