Appearance

Goblins are very short, reaching heights of three feet at their tallest. Their skin comes in various shades of olive green, and their hair ranges from black to brown and reds and comes in all textures. Goblins have large brown eyes, large noses, and long ears. Goblins have needle-sharp teeth, and will deliver a painful bite. Their joints are knobbly, and their hands and feet are a bit too large for their bodies.

They clothe themselves in simple garb made of deerskin, furs, and teeth: tunics, loincloths, hooded cloaks, boots, etc. Many goblins even wear jewelry that they’ve stolen or found lying around.

Abilities

Goblins have no access to magic, but they more than make up for it by their resourcefulness. These little creatures are crafty and good with their hands, allowing them to craft basic weapons and structures. They’re notoriously tenacious and work well in groups. This works to their advantage, and they tend to win due to their sheer numbers.

Goblins will use all manner of weapons that they can get their hands on.

Contrary to popular belief, goblins are fairly intelligent for creatures. They can understand the common tongue, and many can speak it (albeit in fragmented sentences and crude ideas). They’re eager to learn, and can be taught to speak fluently. Many can even go on to master advanced trades.

Culture

Goblins will live anywhere that they can find food and shelter. From the forests to the mountains and everywhere between, goblins thrive. They breed quickly, work well in groups, and are very social. Goblin society is ruled by the cleverest of its members, with towns or bands being ruled by a chief.

Those who set up near rural towns and villages can become a problem, as goblins have very loose definitions of ownership, and many rural populations see goblins as vermin.

Other goblins have taken up to banditry; ambushing traveling convoys and making off with food and whatever valuables they can find.

While there are some bad apples in the bunch, most goblins prefer to keep to themselves and make their living. Many will not attack unless provoked, and they protect their villages with fierce determination.

Goblins are very fond of shiny things; even a well polished rock will hold their attention. Thus their currency is made up of various shiny valuables, some of which would be surprising to more civilized races, and they have a basic understanding of commerce (mostly gleaned from observing other races).

They will always repay a favor or debt they feel they owe.