When you start the game you are a man of little consequence. The first chapter: "A Hero Will Rise" defines exactly what happens to you.
There is something called "The Virus" which has awakened near the edge of the galaxy. People are just becoming aware that this is a real threat as the Virus consumes everything it touches.
You encounter a vessel, and an explosion binds you with an entity known as Ectype D-8. You quickly learn that there is more to this ship and A.I that meets the eye.
Your choices in the game affect what happens to the story and gameplay in meaningful ways. You'll discover this in the demo. What ships you acquire, who you save from the Virus threat, and what relationships you form. Who do you trust?