Hobgoblins

Hobgoblins are a distinct species of Goblinadae that can be found in all portions of the world.  They are a larger, stronger and (slightly) more intelligent version of goblin than their smaller cousins, the Goblins Deformis.   Hobgoblins are known by experts as Goblinus Troglodytam for their size and fierce fighting ability.  In fact, they can often be mistaken for Orcs or even small Trolls by the uninitiated, but the quickest and surest way to tell the difference is to count their fingers and/or toes.  Hobgobllins, like all Goblinadae, have only four toes on each foot and three fingers and a thumb on each hand.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Large, strong humanoids with a bipedal gait, carnivorous teeth and four phalanges (fingers and toes) on each hand and foot.

Genetics and Reproduction

Females birth (usually) two young with each pregnancy, and each prenancy lasts 35 weeks.  Hobgoblins, like all goblins, are prodigious reproducers.

Growth Rate & Stages

Young are able to fend for themselves at two years, and are considered adults at less than 5 years.  Most Hobgoblins seem to live short lives, however, with the oldest known specimen living only to 60 years, and most are not likely to see 50.

Ecology and Habitats

Known to live anywhere other humanoids can live.  Their preferred dwellings are caves, caverns or stone ruins where access to attack is limited and protection is ample.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Carnivores that only consume vegetables used during the preperation of their meat dishes.  Known to prefer the flesh of animals or enemies they have killed themselves, and they have no known aversion to consuming the flesh of intelligent creatures such as Humans, Halflings, or Dwarves.

Behaviour

Capable fighters when numbers favor their side of the battle.  Known to cooperate with other races to win battles, especially Orcs and other Goblinoids.

Additional Information

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Most likely to be found in more remote areas of the world, further from the civilized population centers.  Mountains, deep forests, jungles and deserts are all likely places to find populations and communities of hobgoblins.

Average Intelligence

Intelligent and capable of both speech and writing (although few do write).  More likely to cooperate with each other towards a common goal than their smaller cousins, G. Deformis.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Very good sense of smell, keen hearing and exceptional eyesight, especially in low-light conditions.

Civilization and Culture

Major Language Groups and Dialects

Hobgoblins speak a wife variety of languages that all stem from a common Goblinadae tongue, meaning some groups or tribes speak very similar languages.  Many populations adopt large portions of their language from the local languages spoken by other intelligent beings, with Human tongues being the most commonly utilized.

Interspecies Relations and Assumptions

Hobgoblins have been known to join forces with non-goblin species for both protection and profit.  Hobgoblins have been found fighting alongside Orcs, Trolls and Ogres on many occasions.  They frequently join groups of Bugbears when fighting against large groups or armies, often to benefit from the Bugbear's greater size and strength.
Hobgoblins are also the most frequently found non-Human members of most mercenary or brigand bands.  Almost instinctually prone to follow strong, forceful leadership, hobgoblins can often be found making up a signficant percentage of any pillage- or plunder-based operational force.

A Hobgoblin warrior from the Junn Steppe.

A Hobgoblin war chief from the Gorgomoth Mountains.

Genetic Ancestor(s)

• Goblinoids

Scientific Name

Goblinadae Goblinus Troglodytam

Average Height

Males average 5'2", females slightly shorter

Average Weight

125-140 lbs for males, slightly less for females

Average Physique

Very strong for their size, with a lithe, wiry build that makes them fast and mobile.