Being the youngest planet in the system, Ma`ar Shaddam I outwardly presents itself as an ideal planet for settlement for colonisers seeking expansion in the Outer Rim Territories. The planet is suitably protected from meteorite threats due to three large gas giants that offer an effective gravitational shield within the system. Local sentients, however, have learned, often the hard way, that Ma`ar Shaddam I itself holds its own unique dangers, from both a geological and biological perspective.

Consisting of two main continents with outlying islands, Ma`ar Shaddam I is unfortunately quite geologically unstable in localised areas. This is partly due to its relatively young age and its developing tectonic plates, which are formed in narrow strips, crossing the large continent areas. The constant movement of these plates creates continual seismic activity. Most notable of local seismic events was the complete collapse of one of the tectonic plates, creating what local sentients have labelled the "Door to Eternity", which is an impressively large chasm easily seen from Ma`ar Shaddam I's orbit. Both the northern and southern polar regions are surprisingly geologically stable, seemingly devoid of the seismic activity that is often experienced elsewhere on the planet's main continents. Combine localised seismic threats with active volcanic activity, settlement on Ma`ar Shaddam I has been undesirable and limited.

Ma`ar Shaddam I's ecology consists of large expanses of grasslands, jungle, and forested regions. Unique to Ma`ar Shaddam I is the grass-based plant life found predominately in plains areas. Named by biologists as Ne`mon grass, it is actually a tussock tuber that appears as a low-growing broad-leaved grass. Ne`mon grass contains a natural herbicide that, through its roots, injects this poison into nearby shade-producing competitors. Noted by biologists is a gradual reduction of Ma`ar Shaddam I's forested areas, where the Ne`mon grass is progressively expanding into these areas. It appears jungle regions are safe due to the grass tubers rotting in these wet locations.

Profitable trade has been established through the balanced production of herbicide derived from the Ne`mon grass. Production has focussed on a successful and sustained domestic supplier market. Sentients are however wary of organisational covert harvesting raids, where the powerful herbicide could be used in warfare for mass-defoliation purposes. Many such raids have been attempted; however, all have underestimated the seemingly well-organised local forces.

Hardened by these planetary conditions, local sentients are fiercely protective of Ma`ar Shaddam I, and swiftly band together to repel any off-world incursions by pirates, criminal gangs or any other undesirable elements that lurk in the Outer Rim.