One fictional universe known for its risky and dangerous faster-than-light (FTL) travel methods is the "Warhammer 40,000" universe, commonly referred to as "Warhammer 40K." In this dystopian science fiction setting, FTL travel is achieved through the use of warp drives and the immaterium, a parallel dimension known as the Warp.
In the Warhammer 40K universe, traveling through the Warp is fraught with peril. The Warp is a chaotic and malevolent realm inhabited by malevolent entities known as Chaos. Ships must enter the Warp to travel faster than light, but this exposes them to the dangers and unpredictability of the Immaterium. Navigating the Warp requires skilled psykers (individuals with psychic abilities) who act as navigators and guide the ships, but their psychic powers attract the attention of Warp entities, and they risk possession or corruption.
During Warp travel, ships are susceptible to various hazards, including warp storms, which can tear apart vessels or trap them within the Immaterium. The longer the journey, the higher the risk, and extended exposure to the Warp can lead to madness, mutation, or the ship being lost in time and space.
The Warhammer 40K universe emphasizes the inherent risks and hazards associated with FTL travel, portraying it as a treacherous and dark endeavor. The narrative reflects the grim and brutal nature of the setting, where humanity is constantly at war with various hostile factions and must endure great sacrifices to survive.