Deanna Troi, the ship's counselor, is important as she helps the crew deal with emotional and psychological aspects of their adventures. In crossover novels, these main characters interact with characters from other Star Trek series, which can lead to new relationships and challenges. For instance, they might meet Kirk or Spock from the original series, and these interactions can be both exciting and full of conflict as different leadership styles and values collide.
The main characters include Captain Jean - Luc Picard. He is the strong and wise leader of the Enterprise. Then there's Commander William Riker, Picard's second - in - command. Data, the android, is also a central figure, always curious about human emotions and behaviors. Dr. Beverly Crusher is another main character, taking care of the medical needs on the ship. And of course, Geordi La Forge, the chief engineer with his special visor that allows him to see in different spectra.
Captain Picard is often very popular. His leadership skills and moral compass make him a central figure in crossovers. He can interact with other characters in really interesting ways. Data is also a favorite. His quest to understand humanity can take on new dimensions when he's in a crossover situation, like interacting with characters from different universes who have different concepts of what it means to be alive.
Jean - Luc Picard is one of the main characters. His leadership and wisdom continue to be central to the stories. Data also remains an important figure, with his exploration of humanity still a key theme. William Riker and Deanna Troi are also often featured, along with Geordi La Forge, whose engineering expertise is valuable in various situations.
Most likely, Captain Jean - Luc Picard will be one of the main characters. He was the heart of the Next Generation crew. Also, Data, the android, with his quest to understand humanity, is likely to be there. And of course, William Riker, Picard's trusted first officer.
Captain Picard is an obvious choice. His leadership skills and diplomatic nature would make him a key figure in any crossover. He could interact with other iconic characters from different universes, like Captain Kirk in a crossover with the original 'Star Trek'. Another popular character is Data. His android nature and quest to understand humanity could bring a unique perspective in a crossover. For example, in a crossover with a more technologically advanced universe, Data could learn new things about his own nature.
Another possible storyline is that a long - lost relic or technology from an earlier Star Trek era resurfaces in the Next Generation timeline. The crew then has to work with the knowledge and help of those associated with the relic's origin. This could involve solving ancient mysteries and dealing with the consequences of technology that was perhaps not fully understood in the past.
Diane Duane has also written some excellent novels in this area. Her works often explore the more spiritual and philosophical aspects of the Star Trek universe, adding depth to the overall narrative.
One idea could be a crossover with the original 'Star Trek' series. Maybe the crew of the Enterprise - D meets the crew of the original Enterprise. They could exchange knowledge about different technologies and cultures they've encountered. Another idea is a crossover with 'Doctor Who'. The Doctor could land on the Enterprise - D and help the crew solve a time - related mystery that's beyond their understanding of space - time.
One interesting idea could be a crossover with another sci - fi franchise like 'Doctor Who'. Imagine the Doctor and the crew of the Enterprise - D interacting, with their different technologies and philosophies clashing and meshing. Another idea might be a crossover within the Star Trek universe itself, like bringing in characters from the original series into the Next Generation era in a unique way, perhaps to solve a galactic - scale mystery together.
Another excellent one is 'Dyson Sphere'. This novel takes the crew on an exploration of a Dyson Sphere, a fascinating concept in science fiction. It has a lot of scientific and technological elements that are well - integrated with the story, along with the usual character - driven drama that we love in Star Trek The Next Generation.