 The galaxy is composed of eight space @-@ faring races , five of which can be hired as part of the player 's crew . Humans only exist on Arth and are not found among the stars . Other species include Veloxi , large insects who demand bribes from ships which violate their space ; Mechan , androids left over from the days of the Old Empire ; Elowan , a pacifistic race of sentient plants ; Thrynn , reptile creatures who are primarily interested in money ; Spemin , gelatinous blobs who are known for their cowardice ; Gazurtoid , octopus @-@ like religious zealots who regard all " air @-@ breathers " as infidels ; and Uhlek , a destructive fleet of ships with a hive mind . Humor also plays a role within Starflight . 
