Goblin

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A common Goblin as seen in The Elder Scrolls Online.

Goblins are small, humanoid creatures that live across Tamriel. They are often found living in clans, and appear to be somewhat related to mer.

Various cultures in Tamriel have enslaved Goblins from time to time throughout history. The Tsaesci of Akavir reportedly brought goblins along during their invasion of Tamriel as servants and cannon fodder. The Altmer have similarly employed Goblins in this fashion at different points in history.

By game

• Goblin (Arena)
• Goblin (Redguard)
• Goblin (Tribunal)
• Goblin (Oblivion)
• Goblin (Online)
• Goblin (Legends)
• Goblin (Blades)

Physical appearance

Typically, goblins appear to be short but tough creatures that inhabit caves, sewers, mines, and ruins across the continent. In appearance, they vary in size from smaller than Bosmer to larger than Nords. They have pronounced teeth (resembling Orsimer teeth) and skin that ranges from blue to green. They are relatives to the larger ogres and smaller gremlins.

Culture

Goblins are a primitive and violent humanoid race found across Tamriel and Akavir. Goblins were already present in Tamriel when the ancient Aldmeri first arrived. They have a primitive language and tribal social structure, and worship a god known as "Muluk," who is theorized to be Malacath. Depending on the tribe, they may be led by a Warlord (also known as Warchiefs, typically the biggest and strongest Goblin in the tribe) or by a magic-using shaman (who can be male or female). They frequently come into conflict with any other races they cross paths with, though have been known to live peacefully with the Orcs. They are also frequently enslaved by other races to serve as labor.

There are numerous varieties of Goblin, with some regional differences. On average, they stand 3-5 feet tall, though historically, a race of giant Goblins native to the Alik'r Desert in Hammerfell stood over 8 feet tall. They typically have green-skin, yellow eyes with slitted pupils, a hunched-over posture which sometimes includes a full blown hunchback, pointed ears, and fangs.

Goblins have been known to use a number of Tamriel's vicious wildlife species in this role. For example, the Shadowsilk tribe managed to tame giant spiders while other Goblins tribes have done this with giant rats and Durzogs.

Behavior

When in battle, goblins use their weapons and endurance to deal quick damage to their foes; Goblin Warlords use physical strength to kill intruders in their homes while Goblin witches use their power of magic to kill their enemies.

While they are indeed very war-like and frequently come into conflict with any other intelligent races they cross paths with, their interactions with Orcs and the researcher in Sacred Rites of the Stonechewers show they can see other species as something besides an opportunity to pillage.

Trivia

• Up until the 3rd Era, Goblin Chases were held to celebrate the Emperor's birthday in Hammerfell.