Synthetic humanoids, or Synths, are the results of experimentations searching for the perfect host for human immortality. With the USSA's supposed advancements on neural networking, Florid synths are bio-organic constructs near-indistinguishable from humans. There is a fascinating, if somewhat disturbing, topic regarding a synth's consciousness and while it may never be proven if they're soulless creatures as foretold, they do in fact have emotions as well as physiological reactions to said emotions. They are not, however, overwhelmingly strong in the way humans are.
All synths are issued a four character identification number when processed and assigned duties. It always begins with a letter and ends with a number and is primarily used for identification. Those who escape the USSA's control are known to scratch out or burn away these numbers to gain a sense of freedom for the first time in their lives.
Both android and synth are correct terms to use, though Josiah Penn, leader of the Sons of the Machine, has begun a campaign to outlaw the term android when discussing synthetic humanoids.
Gen II
Gen II synths are easily distinguishable from their younger counterparts as their construction isn't nearly as realistic. While clearly designed to look human, there is something distinctly inhuman about Gen II synths, and therein lies the main reasons Wastelanders, regardless of Origin, look at synths with unease. Pun unintended, there is a robotic quality to their speech, with little variance in their language (perfect enunciation, never a stutter, etc.) that sets them apart.
On a physical level, Gen II synths are much stronger and durable than their Gen III counterparts.
Gen III
Outside of being nearly indistinguishable from humans, Gen III synths also possess bits of the human brain, rendering them more than just machines. In more than just speech patterns, mannerisms, and physical looks, Gen IIIs are the closest to humans the USSA has ever gotten. Many go beyond their pre-programmed knowledge, adapting and overcoming challenges the Wasteland throws at them.
Unlike their older counterparts, Gen III mental capabilities are much stronger.
- Mechanically immortal, but severing the spinal cord will cause permanent malfunction (death)
- Weak to EMPs and laser damage
REFERENCE MATERIAL: FALLOUT WIKI