Massive volcanic activity covers the majority of Malicar III, spewing millions of tons of poisonous gases and volcanic ash into the atmosphere every day. Despite this, the atmosphere of Malicar III remains unusually breathable. The nights are blisteringly cold, sinking to well below freezing, before jumping back up to almost ninety degrees during the daytime. Sudden temperature changes and constant volcanic activity have contributed to the complete lack of animal life on the planet's surface, with a few unique plant specimens having evolved to survive the hellish climate.

A handful of industrial zones cover the planet, utilizing the volcanic reserves to generate geothermal energy. A few scattered scientific outposts make up the rest of the planet, with any non-essential personnel preferring to live in orbital stations rather than risk the surface for more than a day.