Star Trek has returned to the Kelvin Universe, in the process shining a light on one of its most interesting characters. In Star Trek #26, Captain Sisko and the crew of the Theseus arrive in the Kelvin Universe to try and save it from the wave of destruction Lore has unleashed. While the two crews frantically work to save creation, one Kelvin crewmember makes a huge impression on Data.
Star Trek #26, part two of “When the Walls Fell,” is written by Jackson Lanzing and Collin Kelly and drawn by Angel Hernandez. The two crews pair off to begin working on a way to defeat Lore. Data, who is currently without a body, meets 0718, who introduces himself as “the humanoid avatar” of the Enterprise. Data notes the similarities between him and 0718. The two continue to bond over shared experiences, and 0718 gives Data a temporary robotic body.
Star Trek's Kelvin Timeline, Explained
The Kelvin Timeline Also Introduced Exciting New Characters to the Star Trek Mythos
Star Trek’s Kelvin Universe, which debuted in 2009’s JJ Abrams-helmed reboot, was created to free the franchise from decades of continuity, serving the same function as Marvel’s “Ultimate” line. Paramount and Abrams went back to the drawing board, casting new and younger actors in the roles of Kirk and Spock. The filmmakers also gave the Enterprise itself a makeover, making it far more sleek than before. The movie also sported cutting edge special effects, something missing for a while from the Trek franchise. While the movies were controversial among long-time fans, they nevertheless helped save the franchise.
Nothing was revealed about 0718 save his name, but it was clear he was not completely human, and his name seemed to confirm this.
The Kelvin Universe also introduced new characters as well, although most of them spent their time in the background. Among them were Keenser, Scotty’s diminutive alien sidekick and Lieutenant 0718. 0718, played by Joseph Gatt, was a humanoid serving on the Enterprise's bridge, in the Sciences Division. Nothing was revealed about 0718 save his name, but it was clear he was not completely human, and his name seemed to confirm this. Like many background Star Trek characters, he did not get a backstory. However, the comics came to the rescue.
Lieutenant 0718 Has One of Star Trek's Coolest Backstories
0718 Is the Kelvin Version of Commander Data
Star Trek #31 and #32, the "I, Enterprise" story, was written by Mike Johnson and drawn by Erfan Fajar.
Crewman 0718 has a highly intriguing backstory in 2014’s Star Trek #31 and #32. In the story, titled “I, Enterprise,” the ship comes across a sentient planet. After returning from an away mission, the planet’s intelligence hijacks the Enterprise, nearly destroying it in the process. The intelligence seeks the supremacy of inorganic life, and to communicate with the humans, creates a humanoid avatar. The avatar eventually turns on the intelligence, and becomes a member of the Enterprise’s crew, taking the designation 0718. 0718 is essentially the Kelvin equivalent of Data, making their bonding in this issue a treat for fans.
Thanks to his unique nature, Lieutenant 0718 has become a valuable asset to his Enterprise, much like Data was to his ship. 0718’s robotic nature allows him access to the Enterprise’s computer systems, and he can use them even better than anyone on the ship, even Spock. The events of “I, Enterprise” take place before Star Trek Into Darkness, and explain why this unique crewman was on the bridge. 0718 was one of the most intriguing additions to the Star Trek mythos, and the comics made him even cooler.
Could 0718 Take Lore's Place in Data's Life?
0718 Could Be One of the Coolest Characters in the Star Trek Franchise
In Star Trek #26, Crewman 0718 meets Data, his kindred spirit from the Prime timeline, and the two share a moment. 0718 and Data bond over their ability to experience sensations organic beings cannot. Both are surprised to meet the other, and if the circumstances were less dire, the two would no doubt become good friends. In time, Data could even come to view 0718 as a brother. Data has sought a relationship with his actual brother, Lore, over the years only to be rebuked each time. 0718 could fill a brother-sized hole in Data’s life.
The interaction between Data and 0718 drives home that the Kelvin Universe’s robotic Science Officer needs more stories. While the interaction between 0718 and Data is a pleasant surprise for fans, it does not communicate just how impressive an officer 0718 really is. IDW’s Star Trek comic went out of its way to show 0718 in the best light possible. Issue #26 of Star Trek continues this development, but only in terms of his personality. Future stories involving 0718 need to highlight both sides of his character: his winning personality and immense talents.
When Paramount Brings the Kelvin Star Trek Universe Back, 0718 Needs to Be With Them
0718 Is Too Cool A Character for Star Trek To Ignore
The concept of a Federation starship having a humanoid avatar is a fascinating one, and begs to be explored in future Star Trek stories set in the Kelvin Universe.
Paramount continues to drag its heels on developing future entries in Star Trek’s Kelvin Universe. Attempts to get a fourth film set there have repeatedly stalled, eluding even the likes of Quentin Tarantino. This is a shame, as the Kelvin Universe is full of awesome characters, such as Lieutenant 0718. 0718 was ahead of his time, and this alone justifies future stories for him. The concept of a Federation starship having a humanoid avatar is a fascinating one, and begs to be explored in future Star Trek stories set in the Kelvin Universe.
