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The Ur-Quan are a fictional race of predatory alien caterpillars in the Star Control series of video games, created by Paul Reiche III and Fred Ford (both pictured). The first Star Control game introduces the Ur-Quan as leading a galactic empire which seeks to enslave Earth. Their story is expanded in Star Control II, revealing them as former slaves who since vowed to fiercely defend themselves. They also appear in Star Control 3 and The Ur-Quan Masters. Reiche and Ford developed the Ur-Quan based on the concepts for unique spaceships in Star Control; their insectoid appearance was inspired by a National Geographic photo of a caterpillar. Their role in Star Control II has earned the Ur-Quan acclaim as among the best game villains of all time, praised for their menacing persona, as well as their surprising depth and humanity. The Ur-Quan have also influenced other game studios, inspiring concepts in games such as Mass Effect and Stellaris. (Full article...)