The game just restarted, so there are no old plots to familiarize yourself with. This is an overview of the world. We are in the Pre-house of M times. This is a list of the major recent events in the world of this game, as well as among members of the Instutute.  A "Must know" for the game. The year is 2008, all the socio/economic/political events up to that point have happened.  The Iraqi war is going on, as is the Afganistan war. Mutants ARE Publicly known, and considered a threat.  The US government has been slow to enact anykind of mutant registration act, however. Xaviers Institute is a well known private school for 'gifted students'.  It is not publicly known that it's a school for mutants.  It's considered an extremely selective, extremely expensive school for rich brats, generally. The population is completely aware that mutants exist, and have been for years.  A revalation that brought about much rioting when it was discovered a few years ago.  About 90% of the population does not approve of mutants to one degree or another. (Note:  Not every set of parents on list will be totally accepting.  Like Skye's parents.  Her dad loves her regardless, her mother does NOT approve and wants her home! Now!) .