Medieval Fantasy Races

Goblin

Goblin

s in medieval fantasy are typically small, mischievous creatures known for their cunning and greed. Often depicted as grotesque, with pointed ears, sharp teeth, and green or grayish skin, they are commonly portrayed as troublemakers or thieves. Goblins are skilled in stealth and traps, using their quickness to outwit stronger foes. Though not inherently evil, they are usually antagonistic, often aligned with darker forces or living in caves, forests, or underground lairs. Their intelligence varies, but they are frequently shown as opportunistic and prone to violence when cornered.

World of Legends currently does not hold a prominent goblin race that is playable, even as a status. However, there are goblin-like creatures recorded in Bestiary Studies. World of Legends is ever growing and expanding the lore, so who knows, one day there may be a definitive

Goblin

-like species granted by the deities. Orc Kin is the only status based race to come from Divine Favours so far.

Some examples from our creatures that are goblin-like or goblin related:

• Ghralx
• Rehn Ghuuls
• Bugbear
• Kobellen
• Knackers

Goblin

s originate from European folklore, particularly in the medieval period. They are often depicted as mischievous, malicious, or grotesque creatures, commonly associated with forests, caves, or dark, hidden places. The term "goblin" itself comes from the Old French gobelin, which may derive from the Greek word kobalos, meaning rogue or scoundrel.

In various traditions, goblins are portrayed differently: in some cultures, they are small, impish creatures; in others, they are more malevolent and dangerous. In Germanic folklore, creatures like the kobold share similarities with goblins, believed to cause trouble or mischief in households. In British folklore, goblins were often associated with misfortune and chaos, sometimes taking on more terrifying forms.

Goblins were also thought to be elemental beings, tied to nature and the supernatural, often appearing in stories alongside other mythical creatures like fairies and trolls. Over time, they have been portrayed in literature and media as either comical or sinister figures, but the core traits of trickery and unpredictability have remained consistent across cultures.

Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit

Goblins are a creature found in the works of J.R.R. Tolkien. There are hints in the literature that indicate they are also Orcs or at least related to Orcs. Goblins hail from the Misty Mountains and follow a goblin king. They are vicious and cruel creatures.

Forgotten Realms

In Forgotten Realms, and the tabletop game, Dungeons & Dragons, Goblins reflect the history and folklore of Germanic tales. They are semi intelligent and capable of organising themselves in tribes and cults. Goblins are a common antagonist across the lore and in the games, including the Baldur's Gate series. Goblin folk are often brutish and aggressive but have a strong community and population. Their primary language is Ghukliak but Orcish is a common language found among Goblin kind. The chief deity of Goblins is Maglubiyet though they have been known to deviate and become manipulated by cult followings. Some also follow Khurgorbaeyag, the goblin god of oppression.

If you were a goblin in a forest, what would you be most likely to do?
A) Craft magical trinkets and sell them to travelers
B) Set clever traps to protect your secret lair
C) Gather wild mushrooms and experiment with strange potions
D) Lead a mischievous group of goblins in pranks and chaos