The Matrix

The Matrix is a neural, interactive simulation of the world, circa 1999, run partially on a machine AI and partially on the neural nets of the humans connected to it. To those inside, it is reality. To access the Matrix, a human must be equipped with a cybernetic "plug" which is installed at the base of the skull. Usually, a medical sensor plug is also installed in the right forearm. These implants grow alongside the human's nervous system from infancy and only the machines fully understand its construction. Therefore, Free Born humans cannot have these implants and can never enter the Matrix. In essence, the Matrix is an elaborate diversion. It keeps billions of human minds active and occupied while the machines use them for power.