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{{Infobox Greyhawk creature
{{Creature
|image=
|name        =
|caption=
|image       = [[Image:Kobold01.jpg]]
|name=Kobold
|caption     = A kobold warrior. Art by Sam Wood.
|alignment=Lawful Evil
|size        = Small
|type=Humanoid
|alignment   = Lawful evil
|subtype=Reptilian, dragonblood
|type         = Humanoid
|source=
|subtype     = Reptilian, dragonblood
|first=
|patron deity = [[Kurtulmak]]
|first       = ''D&D'' White Box
}}
}}
'''Kobolds''' are aggressive, xenophobic, yet industrious small humanoid creatures, noted for their skill at building traps and preparing ambushes. In the original ''Dungeons & Dragons'' game, Kobolds were considered [[goblinoid]]s but they have been depicted as reptilian humanoids since the release of the first edition ''Advanced Dungeons & Dragons'' game.
'''Kobolds''', called ''celbit'' in [[Flan]], are small humanoid creatures. They are aggressive, xenophobic and industrious, noted for their exceptional skill at building traps and preparing ambushes.  


==Ecology==
== Ecology ==
In newer versions of the game, kobolds are distantly related to [[Dragon|dragons]] and are often found serving them as minions. Kobolds speak a version of the Draconic tongue, with a yipping accent. In their original appearance, kobolds were described as doglike humanoids with ratlike tails, horns and hairless scaly skin, and were not associated with dragons. They were called goblinoids, although the word didn't have the strict meaning it acquired in the third edition of the game. Besides [[goblin]]s, [[hobgoblin]]s, and [[bugbear]]s, [[orc]]s, [[xvart]]s, and [[gremlin]]s were also called goblinoids in the ''Monstrous Compendium'' series and ''[[Monster Mythology]]''. In newer editions, the term "goblinoid" is reserved for goblins, hobgoblins, bugbears, [[norker]]s, and similar creatures. Kobolds are much more explicitly reptilian in current editions, though they were egg-layers as far back as first edition ''AD&D''.  
In newer versions of the game, kobolds are distantly related to [[Dragon|dragons]] and are often to be found serving them as minions. In their original game appearance, kobolds were portrayed as scaly, doglike humanoids and were not associated with dragons. They were originally considered goblinoids in the ''Monstrous Compendium'' series and ''[[Monster Mythology]]'' along with [[goblin]]s, [[hobgoblin]]s, [[bugbear]]s, [[orc]]s, [[xvart]]s, and [[gremlin]]s, although the word did not have the strict meaning it acquired in the game's third edition. In newer game editions, the term "goblinoid" is strictly reserved for goblins, hobgoblins, bugbears, [[norker]]s, and similar creatures. Kobolds are much more explicitly reptilian in more current editions, although they were known as "egg-layers" as far back as First edition ''AD&D''. The ''[[Greyhawk]] [[Player's Guide]]'' said they have "certain features that are both reptilian and doglike."


===Environment===
Kobolds are omnivores with no scruples about what, or who, they eat. They can digest bark, dirt, leather, eggshells, even their younger siblings, if they're desperate enough.  
Kobolds are found in all climates and seem to prefer underground lairs. They are industrious miners and if left to their own devices can carve out massive tunnel complexes, which they rapidly fill to accommodate thanks to their rapid rate of reproduction - which would explain their use as cannon fodder enemies.


===Typical physical characteristics===
Kobolds are extremely fecund egg-layers, having the highest birth rate (and death rate) of all humanoid species. A fertilized female kobold lays her clutch of hard-shelled eggs after two weeks, which must be incubated for an additional 60 days before they hatch. Kobolds reach maturity at about eight, or nine years and are considered "great wyrms" by the age of 121 years. They have been known to live up to 135 years. While they do bond with one another, they have no concept of monogamy.
Kobolds stand about 3' tall, with scaly hides, reptilian heads, and tails. Their hides are typically a rust-brown color, with ivory-colored horns. Their heads are described as doglike, but in recent editions they are illustrated looking more like crocodiles.


===Alignment===
Kobolds have an extreme hatred for [[gnome]]s -- with whom they compete for the same areas and mining rights -- as well as [[pixie]]s, [[brownie]]s and [[sprites]]. They are often at war with [[goblin]]s, and the numerous kobold-goblin wars help to keep the populations of both races down to a manageable level. [[Xvart]]s often act as intermediaries between kobolds and goblins. Xvarts usually dominate kobolds and take out their aggression upon them.
Kobolds are almost always Lawful Evil or Lawful Neutral.


==Society==
Kobolds have been known to sell some of their captives as slaves, if there is a nearby market for them.  
Kobold society is influenced by their lawful evil alignment. They will plan and dig mines industriously, while laying cruel traps for interlopers. If they must confront an enemy, they will mass their troops for an ambush. Among the monstrous humanoids, they are known for cunning plans; unlike many, they also share those plans among the tribe. General plans and goals are common knowledge, and detailed plans are shared with all who ask, to allow them to work fruitfully for the good of the tribe.  Kobolds have a natural hatred of other non-draconic creatures because of mistreatment of their race.


Kobolds have specialized laborers, yet the majority of kobolds are miners. Kobolds prefer exile to execution, and in some disputes, kobolds tribes will split in order to spread their kind over a larger region. Kobolds are also extremely fecund egg layers, having the highest birth rate among humanoids, and mature quickly, in six years. They often lay eggs in a common nest, with specialized foster parents to watch over the eggs and wyrmlings (young under one year).
=== Environment ===
Kobolds are to be found in all climates. Being cold-blooded creatures, however, they are required to eat up to three times as much when in colder climes. They seem to prefer dark, damp, underground lairs and/or overgrown forests. They are industrious miners and, if left to their own devices, can carve out massive tunnel complexes, which they rapidly fill with their progeny, due to their rapid rate of reproduction (which would explain their use as cannon fodder).


===Religion===
Many kobold lairs are guarded by boars, or giant weasels. Their lair's location continually fluctuates since new tunnels are continuously being excavated, as old ones collapse. Most lairs include a temple, or shrine, a kiln, an egg hatchery, and larder (a place for storing food). Larger lairs also contain places for cultivating food and livestock.
The main deity of the kobolds is [[Kurtulmak]], the god of war and mining. The other main god worshipped by kobolds is [[Gaknulak]], the god of protection, stealth, trickery, and traps.  A lesser-known kobold demigod is [[Dakarnok]]. Kobolds and [[gnome]]s have an instinctual hate of each other because of a "prank" played upon Kurtulmak by the gnomish deity [[Garl Glittergold]]. According to some kobold myths, Garl collapsed Kurtulmak's cave, killing estimated 3,000,000 kobolds, because the gnome god saw that they were likely to become the dominant race in the world. The draconic god [[Io]] offered Kurtulmak the chance to become the god of his race or to give him the strength to clear the mine. Kurtulmak chose to lead his race in the form of a god. The gnomes, naturally, have their own version of the myth which casts their god in a considerably better light.


==Notable kobolds==
=== Typical physical characteristics ===
*[[Klobt-A-Lozn]] appeared in the ''AD&D'' first edition module ''[[In the Dungeons of the Slave Lords]]'' as the leader of a forgotten kobold tribe in the caverns below [[Drachen Keep]], in the [[Pomarj]].
Kobolds stand a little over 2' tall, with scaly, hairless hides, reptilian heads and tails, and weigh approximately 40 pounds. Males are, on average, about three inches taller and ten pounds heavier than the females. Kobold hides used to typically be rusty brown or black shades, but their draconic versions can vary much more in color. Their heads used to portrayed as doglike or ratlike with pointed ears and small horns, but in more recent gaming supplements they are illustrated as looking more draconic, similar to a crocodile in appearance. The eyes glow red, and they can see accurately up to 60 feet away in a lightless environment. The odor given off by kobolds has been described as a cross between damp dogs and stagnant water.  


==Kobold subraces==
Unlike their dragon cousins, kobolds are cold-blooded. The scales covering their bodies have a texture like that of an iguana, or other large lizard. The scales covering their tails are very fine and hairless, resembling those of rats. Kobolds lose and gain new teeth throughout their lives. They often save their lost teeth, making necklaces from them. Kobolds favor raggedy-looking red or orange clothing, often made from leather, or the silk of giant spiders. They never wear shoes, but they very are fond of jewelry and other ornamentation.
 
Kobolds shed their skin once a season. The skin comes off in patches, during the course of a week. They tend to keep themselves well-groomed, regularly polishing their horns, claws, and teeth.
 
=== Alignment ===
Kobolds are usually lawful evil.
 
== Society ==
Kobold society is influenced by their lawful evil alignment. They will industriously plan and dig mines, while at the same time laying cruel traps for any interlopers. If they must confront an enemy, they will mass their troops for an ambush. Among the monstrous humanoids, kobolds are known for their cunning plans; unlike other monsters, they also share those plans among all the tribe members. General plans and goals are common knowledge, and detailed plans are shared with all tribal members who ask, this allows all to work fruitfully for the good of the entire tribe. Kobolds have a natural hatred of other non-draconic creatures, because of the historical mistreatment of their race.
 
Kobolds do have specialized laborers, yet the majority of kobolds are miners. The most coveted careers are trapmaker, sorcerer, caretaker, and warrior. Kobolds typically apprentice in their chosen profession at the age of three. A kobold's job may change over the years, based upon the specific needs of the tribe. Kobold tribes are gerontocracies, ruled by their eldest member. This kobold leader is known and called by the title of "the All-Watcher." Oft-times this leader is a powerful sorcerer. Kobold laws may change along with their leaders. Kobolds prefer exile to execution as punishment and, in some disputes, kobolds tribes will split in order to spread their kind over a larger region. Kobolds often lay eggs in a common nest, with specialized foster parents to watch over the eggs and wyrmlings (young under one year).
 
Kobold society is tribal, with war bands based on clans. As many as ten families can be part of a clan. Each clan is responsible for patrolling a ten-mile radius. The most numerous kobold tribes include the Torturers, the Impalers, the Gougers, the Cripplers, and the Mutilators.
 
=== Religion ===
The primary deity to be worshipped by kobolds is [[Kurtulmak]], the god of War and Mining. Another god receiving considerable worshipped by kobolds is [[Gaknulak]], the god of Protection, Stealth, Trickery, and Traps.  A lesser-known kobold deity is the demigod [[Dakarnok]]. Individual kobolds and even entire kobold tribes may worship other deities of the draconic pantheon; [[Tiamat]] and [[Io]] often play a significant role in kobold creation myths. Kobolds and [[gnome]]s have an instinctual hate of each other because of a "prank" played upon Kurtulmak by the gnomish deity [[Garl Glittergold]]. According to some kobold myths, Garl collapsed Kurtulmak's cave because the gnome god saw that they were likely to become the dominant race in the world. The draconic god [[Io]] offered Kurtulmak the chance to become the god of his race, or to give him the strength to clear the mine. Kurtulmak chose to lead his race in the form of a god. The gnomes, naturally, have their own version of the myth which casts their god in a considerably better light.
 
Clerics of Kurtulmak are known as the Eyes of Kurtulmak. They rarely live long enough to become chieftains, but they have a great deal of power and influence, serving as mine supervisors and directing the tribe toward "divinely inspired" goals. Organized religious services are almost nonexistent, but most kobolds do recite small prayers throughout the day.
 
Many kobolds believe in reincarnation, which Kurtulmak may use as either a reward or a punishment, depending on one's service to one's tribe. One of the duties of a cleric is to watch over the tribe's eggs and hatchlings, which are thought to be reincarnations of distinguished kobolds.
 
=== Language ===
Kobolds speak a version of the [[Draconic]] tongue, with a yipping accent (their voices are said to resemble the sound of small dogs barking). Some also learn to speak [[Common]], [[Languages#Goblin|Goblin]], [[Languages#Orcish|Orcish]], and [[Languages#Undercommon|Undercommon]].
 
The written form of Draconic was originally developed by kobolds in the service of dragons, as dragons themselves see little reason to write (and often have no fingers and thumbs to write with).
 
== Notable kobolds ==
*[[Klobt-A-Lozn]] appeared in the ''AD&D'' first edition adventure, ''[[In the Dungeons of the Slave Lords]]'', as the leader of a forgotten kobold tribe in the caverns below [[Drachen Keep]], in the [[Pomarj]].
 
== Kobold subraces ==
''[[Urd]]s'' are a subrace of winged kobolds, who otherwise maintained separate societies from standard kobolds. In third edition, urds seem to have been replaced with a subset of kobolds known as the ''dragonwrought kobolds'', who occasionally have wings or other draconic qualities, and hold an elevated status in kobold society.
''[[Urd]]s'' are a subrace of winged kobolds, who otherwise maintained separate societies from standard kobolds. In third edition, urds seem to have been replaced with a subset of kobolds known as the ''dragonwrought kobolds'', who occasionally have wings or other draconic qualities, and hold an elevated status in kobold society.


The ''aquatic kobold'', the ''arctic kobold'', the ''desert kobold'', the ''earth kobold'', and the ''jungle kobold'' were all introduced in ''Unearthed Arcana'' (2004).
The ''aquatic kobold'', the ''arctic kobold'', the ''desert kobold'', the ''earth kobold'', and the ''jungle kobold'' were all introduced in ''Unearthed Arcana'' (2004).


==Creative origins==
== History ==
The kobolds of ''Dungeons & Dragons'' were inspired by the kobold sprites of German folklore, but aside from their shared association with mining and their small stature, the creatures have little in common.
Kobolds have a disjointed history. Kobolds turn up in various, isolated regions for no apparent reason, even given their often nomadic nature. Divine agency is often evoked as an explanation as to how the kobold race has spread so far and wide. Kobolds are thought to have begun their existence as the servants of dragons.
 
Unlike goblins, [[hobgoblin]]s, and [[orc]]s, no [[Suel]] name for kobolds is given in ''[[The Scarlet Brotherhood]]'', which might suggest that their race was unknown in the ancient [[Suel Imperium]].
 
== Creative origins ==
The kobolds of ''Dungeons & Dragons'' were originally inspired by the kobold sprites of German folklore. Aside from their shared association with mining and their small stature, the two creatures have little in common.
 
== In ''Living Greyhawk'' ==
{{LGsection}}
[[File:SojournerMistKingdomRewardsCard.png|350px|thumb|Player Rewards Card "Sojourner from the [[Mist Kingdom]]".]]
Kobolds were available to play in the ''[[Living Greyhawk]]'' campaign, providing the player had a reward card (Set 2, Card 1: ''Sojourner from the [[Mist Kingdom]]'')<ref>{{cite web |title=Campaign Cards, Set 2, Summer 2007 |url=https://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=lg/dndlg/20071127a |archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20090603045006/https://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=lg/dndlg/20071127a |archivedate=3 June 2009 |work=Living Greyhawk |publisher=Wizards of the Coast  |date=29 May 2007 |accessdate=20 August 2022}}</ref> which referenced kobolds as published in ''Races of the Dragon'' (2006):
{{quoted text|'''Sojourner from the Mist Kingdom''' —  Creation<br>{{quoted text|''We suffer and yet prevail.''|<br />—Thuriel, High Priest of the Sacred Mine, Keeper of the Dragonwrought Eggs}}The [[Mist Kingdom]] is named for the persistent fog in which its seven islands are shrouded.  The islands lie in the [[Vohoun Ocean]] (Pearl Sea), south of the [[Amedio Jungle]].  The Mist Kingdom is home to draconic lords—at least one dragon lives on each island.  The dragons coexist peacefully with on4e another and with the beastfolk and kobolds that share their island homes and serve them.
<br />'''Benefit:''' This card unlocks the kobold race from ''Races of the Dragon''.  While you look slightly different than a normal kobold (metallic or mist grey scales and eyes), you must be cautious, as kiobolds are killed outright in many places.  You derive your heritage from a non-evil dragon.  If you worship a deity, you must worship [[Aasterinian]], [[Bahamut]], [[Chronepsis]], or [[Io]].  ...}}
This card also unlocked a number of feats, substitution levels, prestige classes, and other game mechanics all related to kobolds from ''Races of the Dragon'' for use in the ''Liviung Greyhawk'' campaign.


==Publishing history==
== Publishing history ==
The kobold was one of the first monsters introduced in the earliest edition of the game, in the ''Dungeons & Dragons'' "white box" set (1974), where they were described simply as similar to |goblins, but weaker. Kobolds were further detailed in ''Supplement II: Blackmoor'' (1975).
The kobold was one of the first monsters introduced in the earliest edition of the game, in the ''Dungeons & Dragons'' "white box" set (1974), where they were described simply as similar to goblins, but weaker. Kobolds were further detailed in ''Supplement II: Blackmoor'' (1975).


The kobold's first ''AD&D'' appearance was in the ''Monster Manual'' (1977), where it is described as a tribal creature with war bands, found in dank, dark places. The mythology and attitudes of the kobolds were described in detail in ''[[Dragon (magazine)|Dragon]]'' #63 (July 1982), in [[Roger E. Moore]]'s article, "The Humanoids." A few years later, in Roger Moore's editorial "Tucker's kobolds" in ''Dragon'' #127 (November 1987), a scenario is described where a band of well-prepared kobolds uses tactics to significantly challenge a far more powerful party of adventurers.
The kobold's first ''AD&D'' appearance was in the ''Monster Manual'' (1977), where it is described as a tribal creature with war bands, found in dank, dark places. The mythology and attitudes of the kobolds were described in detail in ''[[Dragon (magazine)|Dragon]]'' #63 (July 1982), in [[Roger E. Moore]]'s article, "The Humanoids." A few years later, in Roger Moore's editorial "Tucker's kobolds" in ''Dragon'' #127 (November 1987), a scenario is described where a band of well-prepared kobolds uses tactics to significantly challenge a far more powerful party of adventurers.
Line 57: Line 96:
The kobold made it's fourth edition debut in the ''Monster Manual'' for this edition (2008). In addition, '' Dragon'' #[http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/drcinc/20080620a 364] contained a variety of additional kobolds.
The kobold made it's fourth edition debut in the ''Monster Manual'' for this edition (2008). In addition, '' Dragon'' #[http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/drcinc/20080620a 364] contained a variety of additional kobolds.


==Bibliography==
== External links ==
*Arneson, Dave. ''[[Blackmoor]]''. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1975.
{{External link disclaimer}}
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kobold_(Dungeons_%26_Dragons) Kobolds at ''Wikipedia''].
*[https://davidleonard-greyhawkmusings.blogspot.com/2021/02/kobolds.html Kobolds at ''Greyhawk Musings''].
*[https://media.wizards.com/2014/downloads/dnd/TuckersKobolds.pdf "Tucker's Kobolds" by Roger E. Moore from ''Dragon'' #127, at ''Wizards of the Coast'' Downloads].


== References ==
=== Notes ===
<references group="note" />
=== Citations ===
<references />
=== Bibliography ===
*Arneson, Dave. ''Blackmoor''. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1975.
*Clay, Joseph. "Hey, Wanna Be a Kobold?" ''[[Dragon (magazine)|Dragon]]'' #141. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1989.
*Clay, Joseph. "Hey, Wanna Be a Kobold?" ''[[Dragon (magazine)|Dragon]]'' #141. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1989.
*Collins, Andy, [[Jesse Decker]], [[David Noonan]], and Rich Redman. ''Unearthed Arcana''. Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2004.   
*Collins, Andy, [[Jesse Decker]], [[David Noonan]], and Rich Redman. ''Unearthed Arcana''. Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2004.   
*[[David "Zeb" Cook|Cook, David]], ''et al''. ''Monstrous Compendium Volume One''. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1989.
*[[David "Zeb" Cook|Cook, David]], ''et al''. ''Monstrous Compendium Volume One''. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1989.
*[[Gygax, Gary]]. ''Monster Manual''. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1977.
*[[Gygax, Gary]]. ''Monster Manual''. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1977.
*[[Gygax, Gary]], and Dave Arneson.'' Dungeons & Dragons''. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1974.
*[[Gygax, Gary]], and Dave Arneson.'' Dungeons & Dragons''. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1974.
*-----. ''Dungeons & Dragons Basic Set''. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1977.
:———. ''Dungeons & Dragons Basic Set''. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1977.
*-----. ''Dungeons & Dragons Basic Set''. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1981.  
:———. ''Dungeons & Dragons Basic Set''. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1981.  
*-----. ''Dungeons & Dragons Set 1: Basic Rules''. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1983.
:———. ''Dungeons & Dragons Set 1: Basic Rules''. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1983.
 
*[[Gary Holian|Holian, Gary]], [[Erik Mona]], [[Sean K. Reynolds]], and [[Frederick Weining]]. ''[[Living Greyhawk Gazetteer]]''. Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2000.
*[[Gary Holian|Holian, Gary]], [[Erik Mona]], [[Sean K Reynolds]], and [[Frederick Weining]]. ''[[Living Greyhawk Gazetteer]]''. Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2000.
 
*Kestrel, Gwendolyn F.M., Jennifer Clarke Wilkes, and Kolja Raven Liquette. ''Races of the Dragon''. Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2006.
*Kestrel, Gwendolyn F.M., Jennifer Clarke Wilkes, and Kolja Raven Liquette. ''Races of the Dragon''. Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2006.
*[[Mike Mearls|Mearls, Mike]], Stephen Schubert, and [[James Wyatt]]. ''Monster Manual'', Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2008.
*[[Mike Mearls|Mearls, Mike]], Stephen Schubert, and [[James Wyatt]]. ''Monster Manual'', Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2008.
*[[Roger E. Moore|Moore, Roger E]]. "The Humanoids." ''[[Dragon (magazine)|Dragon]]'' #63. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1982.  
*[[Roger E. Moore|Moore, Roger E]]. "The Humanoids." ''[[Dragon (magazine)|Dragon]]'' #63. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1982.  
*-----. "[http://www.tuckerskobolds.com/ Tucker's Kobolds]." ''[[Dragon (magazine)|Dragon]]'' #127. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1987.   
:———. "[http://www.tuckerskobolds.com/ Tucker's Kobolds]." ''[[Dragon (magazine)|Dragon]]'' #127. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1987.   
 
*[[Sargent, Carl]]. ''[[Monster Mythology]]''. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1992.
*[[Sargent, Carl]]. ''[[Monster Mythology]]''. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1992.
*Slavicsek, Bill. ''The Complete Book of Humanoids''. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1993.  
*Slavicsek, Bill. ''The Complete Book of Humanoids''. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1993.  
 
*Smith, Mat. "The Ecology of the Kobold." ''[[Dragon (magazine)|Dragon]]'' #332. Bellevue, WA: Paizo Publishing, 2005.
*Smith, Mat. "The Ecology of the Kobold". ''[[Dragon (magazine)|Dragon]]'' #332. Bellevue, WA: Paizo Publishing, 2005.
 
*Stewart, Doug, ed. ''Monstrous Manual''. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1994.
*Stewart, Doug, ed. ''Monstrous Manual''. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1994.
*[[Skip Williams|Williams, Skip]], [[Jonathan Tweet]], and [[Monte Cook]]. ''Monster Manual''. Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2000.
*[[Skip Williams|Williams, Skip]], [[Jonathan Tweet]], and [[Monte Cook]]. ''Monster Manual''. Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2000.
*-----. ''Monster Manual: Core Rulebook III v.3.5''. Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2003.
:———. ''Monster Manual: Core Rulebook III v.3.5''. Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2003.
 
{{index}}
==External link==
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kobold_(Dungeons_%26_Dragons) Kobolds at ''Wikipedia''].




[[Category:Greyhawk creatures]]
[[Category:Creatures]]

Latest revision as of 10:28, 18 December 2024

Greyhawk Creature
Kobold
A kobold warrior. Art by Sam Wood.
General information
Size:Small
Alignment:Lawful evil
Type:Humanoid
Subtype:Reptilian, dragonblood
Patron deity:Kurtulmak
First appearance:D&D White Box

Kobolds, called celbit in Flan, are small humanoid creatures. They are aggressive, xenophobic and industrious, noted for their exceptional skill at building traps and preparing ambushes.

Ecology

In newer versions of the game, kobolds are distantly related to dragons and are often to be found serving them as minions. In their original game appearance, kobolds were portrayed as scaly, doglike humanoids and were not associated with dragons. They were originally considered goblinoids in the Monstrous Compendium series and Monster Mythology along with goblins, hobgoblins, bugbears, orcs, xvarts, and gremlins, although the word did not have the strict meaning it acquired in the game's third edition. In newer game editions, the term "goblinoid" is strictly reserved for goblins, hobgoblins, bugbears, norkers, and similar creatures. Kobolds are much more explicitly reptilian in more current editions, although they were known as "egg-layers" as far back as First edition AD&D. The Greyhawk Player's Guide said they have "certain features that are both reptilian and doglike."

Kobolds are omnivores with no scruples about what, or who, they eat. They can digest bark, dirt, leather, eggshells, even their younger siblings, if they're desperate enough.

Kobolds are extremely fecund egg-layers, having the highest birth rate (and death rate) of all humanoid species. A fertilized female kobold lays her clutch of hard-shelled eggs after two weeks, which must be incubated for an additional 60 days before they hatch. Kobolds reach maturity at about eight, or nine years and are considered "great wyrms" by the age of 121 years. They have been known to live up to 135 years. While they do bond with one another, they have no concept of monogamy.

Kobolds have an extreme hatred for gnomes -- with whom they compete for the same areas and mining rights -- as well as pixies, brownies and sprites. They are often at war with goblins, and the numerous kobold-goblin wars help to keep the populations of both races down to a manageable level. Xvarts often act as intermediaries between kobolds and goblins. Xvarts usually dominate kobolds and take out their aggression upon them.

Kobolds have been known to sell some of their captives as slaves, if there is a nearby market for them.

Environment

Kobolds are to be found in all climates. Being cold-blooded creatures, however, they are required to eat up to three times as much when in colder climes. They seem to prefer dark, damp, underground lairs and/or overgrown forests. They are industrious miners and, if left to their own devices, can carve out massive tunnel complexes, which they rapidly fill with their progeny, due to their rapid rate of reproduction (which would explain their use as cannon fodder).

Many kobold lairs are guarded by boars, or giant weasels. Their lair's location continually fluctuates since new tunnels are continuously being excavated, as old ones collapse. Most lairs include a temple, or shrine, a kiln, an egg hatchery, and larder (a place for storing food). Larger lairs also contain places for cultivating food and livestock.

Typical physical characteristics

Kobolds stand a little over 2' tall, with scaly, hairless hides, reptilian heads and tails, and weigh approximately 40 pounds. Males are, on average, about three inches taller and ten pounds heavier than the females. Kobold hides used to typically be rusty brown or black shades, but their draconic versions can vary much more in color. Their heads used to portrayed as doglike or ratlike with pointed ears and small horns, but in more recent gaming supplements they are illustrated as looking more draconic, similar to a crocodile in appearance. The eyes glow red, and they can see accurately up to 60 feet away in a lightless environment. The odor given off by kobolds has been described as a cross between damp dogs and stagnant water.

Unlike their dragon cousins, kobolds are cold-blooded. The scales covering their bodies have a texture like that of an iguana, or other large lizard. The scales covering their tails are very fine and hairless, resembling those of rats. Kobolds lose and gain new teeth throughout their lives. They often save their lost teeth, making necklaces from them. Kobolds favor raggedy-looking red or orange clothing, often made from leather, or the silk of giant spiders. They never wear shoes, but they very are fond of jewelry and other ornamentation.

Kobolds shed their skin once a season. The skin comes off in patches, during the course of a week. They tend to keep themselves well-groomed, regularly polishing their horns, claws, and teeth.

Alignment

Kobolds are usually lawful evil.

Society

Kobold society is influenced by their lawful evil alignment. They will industriously plan and dig mines, while at the same time laying cruel traps for any interlopers. If they must confront an enemy, they will mass their troops for an ambush. Among the monstrous humanoids, kobolds are known for their cunning plans; unlike other monsters, they also share those plans among all the tribe members. General plans and goals are common knowledge, and detailed plans are shared with all tribal members who ask, this allows all to work fruitfully for the good of the entire tribe. Kobolds have a natural hatred of other non-draconic creatures, because of the historical mistreatment of their race.

Kobolds do have specialized laborers, yet the majority of kobolds are miners. The most coveted careers are trapmaker, sorcerer, caretaker, and warrior. Kobolds typically apprentice in their chosen profession at the age of three. A kobold's job may change over the years, based upon the specific needs of the tribe. Kobold tribes are gerontocracies, ruled by their eldest member. This kobold leader is known and called by the title of "the All-Watcher." Oft-times this leader is a powerful sorcerer. Kobold laws may change along with their leaders. Kobolds prefer exile to execution as punishment and, in some disputes, kobolds tribes will split in order to spread their kind over a larger region. Kobolds often lay eggs in a common nest, with specialized foster parents to watch over the eggs and wyrmlings (young under one year).

Kobold society is tribal, with war bands based on clans. As many as ten families can be part of a clan. Each clan is responsible for patrolling a ten-mile radius. The most numerous kobold tribes include the Torturers, the Impalers, the Gougers, the Cripplers, and the Mutilators.

Religion

The primary deity to be worshipped by kobolds is Kurtulmak, the god of War and Mining. Another god receiving considerable worshipped by kobolds is Gaknulak, the god of Protection, Stealth, Trickery, and Traps. A lesser-known kobold deity is the demigod Dakarnok. Individual kobolds and even entire kobold tribes may worship other deities of the draconic pantheon; Tiamat and Io often play a significant role in kobold creation myths. Kobolds and gnomes have an instinctual hate of each other because of a "prank" played upon Kurtulmak by the gnomish deity Garl Glittergold. According to some kobold myths, Garl collapsed Kurtulmak's cave because the gnome god saw that they were likely to become the dominant race in the world. The draconic god Io offered Kurtulmak the chance to become the god of his race, or to give him the strength to clear the mine. Kurtulmak chose to lead his race in the form of a god. The gnomes, naturally, have their own version of the myth which casts their god in a considerably better light.

Clerics of Kurtulmak are known as the Eyes of Kurtulmak. They rarely live long enough to become chieftains, but they have a great deal of power and influence, serving as mine supervisors and directing the tribe toward "divinely inspired" goals. Organized religious services are almost nonexistent, but most kobolds do recite small prayers throughout the day.

Many kobolds believe in reincarnation, which Kurtulmak may use as either a reward or a punishment, depending on one's service to one's tribe. One of the duties of a cleric is to watch over the tribe's eggs and hatchlings, which are thought to be reincarnations of distinguished kobolds.

Language

Kobolds speak a version of the Draconic tongue, with a yipping accent (their voices are said to resemble the sound of small dogs barking). Some also learn to speak Common, Goblin, Orcish, and Undercommon.

The written form of Draconic was originally developed by kobolds in the service of dragons, as dragons themselves see little reason to write (and often have no fingers and thumbs to write with).

Notable kobolds

Kobold subraces

Urds are a subrace of winged kobolds, who otherwise maintained separate societies from standard kobolds. In third edition, urds seem to have been replaced with a subset of kobolds known as the dragonwrought kobolds, who occasionally have wings or other draconic qualities, and hold an elevated status in kobold society.

The aquatic kobold, the arctic kobold, the desert kobold, the earth kobold, and the jungle kobold were all introduced in Unearthed Arcana (2004).

History

Kobolds have a disjointed history. Kobolds turn up in various, isolated regions for no apparent reason, even given their often nomadic nature. Divine agency is often evoked as an explanation as to how the kobold race has spread so far and wide. Kobolds are thought to have begun their existence as the servants of dragons.

Unlike goblins, hobgoblins, and orcs, no Suel name for kobolds is given in The Scarlet Brotherhood, which might suggest that their race was unknown in the ancient Suel Imperium.

Creative origins

The kobolds of Dungeons & Dragons were originally inspired by the kobold sprites of German folklore. Aside from their shared association with mining and their small stature, the two creatures have little in common.

In Living Greyhawk

Player Rewards Card "Sojourner from the Mist Kingdom".

Kobolds were available to play in the Living Greyhawk campaign, providing the player had a reward card (Set 2, Card 1: Sojourner from the Mist Kingdom)[1] which referenced kobolds as published in Races of the Dragon (2006):

"Sojourner from the Mist Kingdom — Creation

"We suffer and yet prevail."
—Thuriel, High Priest of the Sacred Mine, Keeper of the Dragonwrought Eggs

The Mist Kingdom is named for the persistent fog in which its seven islands are shrouded. The islands lie in the Vohoun Ocean (Pearl Sea), south of the Amedio Jungle. The Mist Kingdom is home to draconic lords—at least one dragon lives on each island. The dragons coexist peacefully with on4e another and with the beastfolk and kobolds that share their island homes and serve them.
Benefit: This card unlocks the kobold race from Races of the Dragon. While you look slightly different than a normal kobold (metallic or mist grey scales and eyes), you must be cautious, as kiobolds are killed outright in many places. You derive your heritage from a non-evil dragon. If you worship a deity, you must worship Aasterinian, Bahamut, Chronepsis, or Io. ..."

This card also unlocked a number of feats, substitution levels, prestige classes, and other game mechanics all related to kobolds from Races of the Dragon for use in the Liviung Greyhawk campaign.

Publishing history

The kobold was one of the first monsters introduced in the earliest edition of the game, in the Dungeons & Dragons "white box" set (1974), where they were described simply as similar to goblins, but weaker. Kobolds were further detailed in Supplement II: Blackmoor (1975).

The kobold's first AD&D appearance was in the Monster Manual (1977), where it is described as a tribal creature with war bands, found in dank, dark places. The mythology and attitudes of the kobolds were described in detail in Dragon #63 (July 1982), in Roger E. Moore's article, "The Humanoids." A few years later, in Roger Moore's editorial "Tucker's kobolds" in Dragon #127 (November 1987), a scenario is described where a band of well-prepared kobolds uses tactics to significantly challenge a far more powerful party of adventurers.

The article "Hey, Wanna Be a Kobold?" by Joseph Clay in Dragon #141 (January 1989), presented kobolds, xvarts, goblins, and orcs as player character races along with two new character classes, the "shaman" and the "witch doctor."

The kobold first second edition appearance was in the Monstrous Compendium Volume One (1989), which also introduced the urd. The kobold was detailed as a playable character race in The Complete Book of Humanoids (1993). The kobold was presented as a playable character race again in Player's Option: Skills & Powers (1995).

The kobold's first third edition appearance was in the Monster Manual (2000). The creature later appeared in the revised Monster Manual for the 3.5 edition (2003).

The kobold was detailed in Dragon #332 (June 2005), in the "Ecology of the Kobold". The kobold was detailed as a player character race in Races of the Dragon (2006).

The kobold made it's fourth edition debut in the Monster Manual for this edition (2008). In addition, Dragon #364 contained a variety of additional kobolds.

Disclaimer:Any lore presented through the following links does not necessarily adhere to established officially published content, and the views expressed do not necessarily represent the views of the editors of this wiki.

References

Notes

Citations

  1. ↑ Campaign Cards, Set 2, Summer 2007. Living Greyhawk. Wizards of the Coast , 29 May 2007. Archived from the original on 3 June 2009. Retrieved on 20 August 2022.

Bibliography

  • Arneson, Dave. Blackmoor. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1975.
  • Clay, Joseph. "Hey, Wanna Be a Kobold?" Dragon #141. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1989.
  • Collins, Andy, Jesse Decker, David Noonan, and Rich Redman. Unearthed Arcana. Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2004.
  • Cook, David, et al. Monstrous Compendium Volume One. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1989.
  • Gygax, Gary. Monster Manual. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1977.
  • Gygax, Gary, and Dave Arneson. Dungeons & Dragons. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1974.
———. Dungeons & Dragons Basic Set. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1977.
———. Dungeons & Dragons Basic Set. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1981.
———. Dungeons & Dragons Set 1: Basic Rules. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1983.
———. "Tucker's Kobolds." Dragon #127. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1987.
  • Sargent, Carl. Monster Mythology. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1992.
  • Slavicsek, Bill. The Complete Book of Humanoids. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1993.
  • Smith, Mat. "The Ecology of the Kobold." Dragon #332. Bellevue, WA: Paizo Publishing, 2005.
  • Stewart, Doug, ed. Monstrous Manual. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1994.
  • Williams, Skip, Jonathan Tweet, and Monte Cook. Monster Manual. Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2000.
———. Monster Manual: Core Rulebook III v.3.5. Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2003.

Encyclopedia Greyhawkania Index

The Encyclopedia Greyhawkania Index (EGI) is based on previous work of Jason Zavoda through '08, continued by numerous other fans. The EGI article has a list of sources, product names, abbreviations, and a link to the full, downloadable index.

Topic Type Description Product Page/Card/Image

Big Yell Tribe (Kobold) People Group Tribe, Slavers, AD&D 2e 63
Cripplers Tribe (Kobold) People Group Tribe, Living Greyhawk Gazetteer 11
Dead Rat Tribe (Kobold) People Group Tribe, Dragon magazine #167 12
Dead Rat Tribe (Kobold) People Group Tribe, Slavers, AD&D 2e 83
Gougers Tribe (Kobold) People Group Tribe, Living Greyhawk Gazetteer 11
Green Meat Tribe (Kobold) People Group Tribe, Dragon magazine #167 12
Green Meat Tribe (Kobold) People Group Tribe, Slavers, AD&D 2e 83
Grom the Kobold Non-player character A1 Slave Pits of the Undercity 14
Ichor Tribe (Fell Ichor) (Kobold) People Group Tribe, Dragon magazine #167 12
Ichor Tribe (Fell Ichor) (Kobold) People Group Tribe, Slavers, AD&D 2e 83, 97
Impalers Tribe (Kobold) People Group Tribe, Living Greyhawk Gazetteer 11
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, Dragon magazine #302 20
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, Into The Unknown: The Dungeon Survival Handbook, D&D 4e 3, 4, 6, 13, 21, 27, 30, 34, 37, 40-45, 78, 80, 87, 90, 93, 95, 123, 138, 139, 140, 149, 155, 156, 158, Back Cover
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, From the Ashes: References Card #08
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, From the Ashes: References Card #09
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, From the Ashes: References Card #11
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, GDQ1-7 Queen of the Spiders 16, 17, 107
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, Greyhawk: Supplement I, OD&D 10, 16, 23, 34, 49, 64
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, Ghosts of Saltmarsh, D&D 5e 24, 25, 27, 210, 213
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, Living Greyhawk, Living Onnwal Gazetteer, D&D 3.5e 41
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, AD&D Monster Cards, Set 1 Not Numbered
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, MC1 - Monstrous Compendium Volume 1 Insert (Kobold)
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, MC5 Monstrous Compendium Greyhawk Adventures Appendix Encounter Tables
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, Monster Manual 1, AD&D 1e 57, 58
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, Monstrous Manual, AD&D 2e 214
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, Monstrous Manual, AD&D 2e (Premium Edition) 214
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, Monster Manual 1, D&D 3.5e (Premium Edition) 161, 162
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, Monster Manual 1, D&D 4e (Deluxe Edition) 167-169, 278
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, Monster Manual 1, D&D 5e 195
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, Manual of the Planes, AD&D 1e 112
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, Oerth Journal #06 34
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, Oerth Journal #12 19
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, Oerth Journal #13 13
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, Oerth Journal #14 37,38,41,42
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, Oerth Journal #31 7
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, PHBR10 - The Complete Book of Humanoids 9, 32, 35, 38-40, 79, 80, 81, 82, 86, 87, 107, 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, Saltmarsh Encounters, D&D 5e 10
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, Spelljammer Boxed Set: Lorebook of the Void 59-60
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, SJR6 Greyspace 13, 55, 56, 58, 59
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, Vortext #08, Spring 1993 #08 21, 28
Kobold {Celbit} Monster Native of: Material Plane, World of Greyhawk boxed set (1983) 8, 9, 11, 12, 13
Mutilators Tribe (Kobold) People Group Tribe, Living Greyhawk Gazetteer 11
Ochre Tooth Tribe (Kobold) People Group Tribe, Dragon magazine #167 12
Red Eye, Tribe of the (Kobold) People Group Tribe, Dungeon magazine #085 77, 83, 84, 85, 86
Scorpion Tribe (Kobold) People Group Tribe, Slavers, AD&D 2e 63
Xvart {Svart, Blue Kobold} Monster Artifact of Evil 287, 311, 313, 322
Xvart {Svart, Blue Kobold} Monster LT2 Crypt of Lyzandred the Mad 8, 27, 28
Xvart {Svart, Blue Kobold} Monster Dragon magazine #339 64-65
Xvart {Svart, Blue Kobold} Monster GDQ1-7 Queen of the Spiders 16
Xvart {Svart, Blue Kobold} Monster Living Greyhawk Journal #1 24-25
Xvart {Svart, Blue Kobold} Monster Player's Guide to Greyhawk 20, 38
Xvart {Svart, Blue Kobold} Monster Saltmarsh Encounters, D&D 5e 13, 20
Xvart {Svart, Blue Kobold} Monster Slavers, AD&D 2e 84
Xvart {Svart, Blue Kobold} Monster White Dwarf #009 8
Xvart {Svart, Blue Kobold} Monster White Dwarf #BOV1 42
Xvart {Svart, Blue Kobold} Monster WG4 The Forgotten Temple of Tharizdun 32
Xvart {Svart, Blue Kobold} Monster World of Greyhawk boxed set (1983) 64, 75
Xvart {Svart, Blue Kobold} Monster World of Greyhawk boxed set (1983) 8, 9, 13
Yellow Tooth Tribe (Kobold) People Group Tribe, Slavers, AD&D 2e 84
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