The point of divergence is February 29, 2004 when an alien spacecraft gets marooned in our solar system. In return for our help getting them back home, the Sylvants and Dwermagh share their advanced scientific knowledge with us, including faster-than-light travel. The human race experiences a monumental cultural shift as the elements of science fiction [aliens, spaceships, FTL travel, space exploration] become every-day reality within a few years. This ushers in a golden age of prosperity.
Humanity is the equal of the other two alien races, and it is only our collaboration that makes the golden age possible.
This is a metaphor for the real-world culture change we are living through right now caused by the internet, smart phones and social media. The game is also intended as a 'safe harbor' from the storm of the current culture war.
The mood is intended to be optimistic and fun, realistic sci-fi, influenced by Star Trek: ToS, Firefly and Battlestar Galactica [2004].
Other influences are Car Wars, Alternity, Harry Turtledove’s Timeline-191 books, The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, Whiskey Tango Foxtrot, Enterprise, the "Leap Day" episode of 30 Rock, and especially Alien Nation and District 13.