Near Human

Near-Humans is the general term for any of the many species, subspecies, or races in the galaxy which are very closely related biologically to baseline Humans. In contrast, other humanoid species only have general external similarities to Humans, and have no biological connection. However, the term "humanoid" is sometimes used loosely to describe Near-Human species.

Most Near-Humans share close external similarities to Humans, usually with small differences in skin and eye color or bone structure. Biologically, many Near-Humans are capable of interbreeding with baseline Humans. Some are close enough to the Human baseline to be considered a race or ethnic group of Humans, rather than a separate species. Similarly, some groups, biologically classified as Humans, though differing from the Human mainstream almost entirely in their culture, are considered so distinct that they were sometimes referred to as Near-Human.

On the MUSH, Near Human is an unrestricted race, but players must still apply if their differences from Human standard involve the addition of something non-aesthetic to their character (like special powers or abilities), or if the differences are very drastic (tall or short beyond normal, odd numbers of regular appendages, additional appendages, etc). Creativity is encouraged, but it must be supported substantially.