…the Wild Card virus.

An alternate world history with superhero’s (aces) and freaks (jokers).

On September 15, 1946, the alien race known as the Takisians sent a genetically engineered virus - the Wild Card virus - to Earth to be tested on the populace. The virus canister was released over Manhattan and eventually spread over the entire world.

When it activated and a person “turned” their card the virus rewrote their human DNA with unpredictable results:

• 90% of those infected died instantly—this was called “drawing the Black Queen.”

• 9% were mutated into grotesque and often crippled forms—these survivors were dubbed Jokers.

• 1% gained superhuman abilities and became known as Aces.

• Carriers - were those that had the wildcard gene but had not yet “turned”.

• Uninfected - known as Nats or natural humans.

The world reeled in horror and fascination as people spontaneously mutated or developed powers—turning New York into the epicenter of a biological and social revolution. But there were other lesser outbreaks, notably London a week later and Melbourne two months later.

In the aftermath each city quickly descended into chaos, with emergency services overwhelmed. Fear and paranoia gripped nations. Government quarantined parts of each city and declared martial law. Social stigma against Jokers led to the creation of segregated areas like Jokertown, the Docklands or Camp Pell-Mell, all grim and marginalised districts.

Over time, Aces began to influence world events—some becoming heroes, others villains, mercenaries, or political players. Meanwhile, Jokers faced persistent discrimination, poverty, and systemic neglect.

The release of the virus reshaped politics, culture, and global power dynamics. But it was still earth, same shit, different shovel. The world found itself adapting to this new reality: one where superpowers weren’t the stuff of fiction, but had everyday complications—equal parts miraculous and tragic.