Multiverse

The **Multiverse**, also known as an **Expanded Universe** or **reality**, is a space containing a near infinitesimal number of universes or realties. Some of these universes look almost identical to each other with only minute differences. Others are vastly different. The Force is an energy field that connects all universes together into the multiverse. It is a constant, even in universes that are vastly different; the multiverse would not exist without it.

## Description

The multiverse was discovered by the Mortis gods who captured a way to transverse it within the Lothal Jedi Temple. The multiverse was essentially a theory that acknowledged the existence of an infinite number of universes based on an infinitely equal number of choices. The main *Star Wars* universe was believed to be the original timeline, while all other universes were divergences from it. Travel between the universes was an ability sought by the Sith, as it would give them greater control over the galaxy and the Force. However, so far, travel has only been accomplished by Ahsoka Tano who was rescued from certain death at the hands of Darth Vader by Ezra Bridger and later returned to her own timeline. The Ancient Order of the Whills exists outside the multiverse and records important events in history.

### Divergences and variants

Splits in a universe's timeline were determined by the choices of that universe's inhabitants. For example, a **divergence** was created at the moment Anakin Skywalker was presented with the choice of killing Mace Windu or assisting him to kill Darth Sidious. In the main universe, he chose to save Sidious from Windu, killing the latter and becoming the feared Sith Lord Darth Vader. However, in another universe, Anakin chose to spare Windu and instead assist him with Sidious, ensuring the survival of the Jedi Order. This new Anakin — who never became Darth Vader — and this new Windu — who never died at the hands of Anakin and Sidious — are referred to as **variants**: alternate versions of their main universe selves. These variants can become very different from their main universe counterparts, or remain mostly the same, unchanged by their decisions.

### Expanded universes

**Expanded universes** is the term labeling the alternate versions of the main *Star Wars* universe. They are some times simply referred to as **timelines**. Each is given a number designating it and distinguishing it from the others. For example, **Expanded Universe-1** (EU-1) refers to the main *Star Wars* universe.

## Behind the scenes

The idea to use a multiverse as a way to distinguish between the works of various fan fiction authors on Wookieeverse was inspired by the way Marvel and DC number their various fictional realities. In fact, the term "variant" was lifted directly from the Marvel Cinematic Universe series *Loki*.

## Notes and references

1. ↑ "Path of the Jedi" — *Star Wars Rebels*
2. ↑ Since *Star Wars* Legends is treated as stories and worlds rumored to exist by characters in *Star Wars* canon, it can be assumed the canon continuity is the original, while all other continuities are divergences.
3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 "A World Between Worlds" — *Star Wars Rebels*
4. ↑ *Star Wars: The Annotated Screenplays*
5. ↑ *Star Wars* Episode III *Revenge of the Sith*
6. ↑  The "Expanded Universe" was the original name given to *Star Wars* Legends before it was de-canonized in 2014 when Disney purchased *Star Wars*.