Physical Description: Gnomes are a diminutive race with distinct physical characteristics. They are shorter than most other humanoid races, standing at an average height of about 3.5 to 4.2 feet. Gnomes are not as stocky as dwarves but still possess a sturdy and wiry build, which allows them to move quickly and efficiently. Their bodies are compact and well-proportioned, giving them a nimble and agile appearance.
Gnomes have disproportionately large heads compared to their bodies, which is one of their most distinguishing features. Their faces are adorned with large, bulbous noses that often become the focal point of their expressions. Gnomes tend to have ruddy or rosy skin, which can vary in tone from a light peach to a deeper, reddish hue.
One of the most noticeable characteristics of gnomes is their large, rounded ears. These ears are highly sensitive and can swivel to detect even the faintest sounds, making gnomes excellent listeners and keen observers. Gnomes display a wide range of hair colors, with some even sporting vibrant and unconventional shades like pink, green, or purple. Their hair is usually fine and tends to be somewhat unruly, reflecting their creative and unconventional nature. Gnomes also frequently wear goggles, tool belts, and other items associated with their tinkering and alchemical inclinations. These accessories are not only functional but also serve as a form of self-expression and identity.
Social and Interpersonal Aspects: Gnomes are known for their amiable and kindhearted nature. They are generally friendly and approachable and enjoy making friends with individuals from various races and backgrounds. Gnome society places a strong emphasis on community and camaraderie, and gnomes readily form close-knit social circles. They often take on a fatherly or mentoring role, especially when interacting with humans and other shorter-lived races. Gnomes offer guidance, support, and wisdom to those who seek it, benefiting from their long lifespan and accumulated knowledge.
Their gregarious and extroverted nature makes gnomes excellent companions. They are known for their love of storytelling, jokes, and music. Many gnomes are skilled bards and entertainers, further strengthening their connections with other races.
Gnomes also have a deep appreciation for the arts and are avid collectors of unique and unusual items. They have a penchant for aesthetics and often adorn their homes with inventive, eye-catching decor. Their natural curiosity leads them to explore the world around them, seeking inspiration for their mechanical inventions, alchemical experiments, and artistic creations.
Political Views: Gnome society is loosely organized and rarely involved in expansive political endeavors. Instead, they focus on their individual passions and creative pursuits. Gnomes value personal freedom to create but understand the need for communal organization. They prefer local governance, where each gnome community or family makes its own decisions, allowing for a wide range of social structures and governance systems.
Gnomes do, however, have a strong sense of ethics and tend to be advocates for justice and fairness. They despise oppression and discrimination, often using their inventive minds to develop technologies or solutions that promote equality and better the lives of those in need. In times of crisis, gnomes may come together to support a common cause, utilizing their ingenious inventions for the greater good.
Gnomes make poor warriors as they have a racial penalty for strength. Further, due to their short size, they suffer in ground movement (80 ft per combat round) and reduced base hit points. They also suffer a -1 to Riding Land Base. On the positive side, Gnomes have superior intelligence and constitution (D6+1). They gain a +2 to Smelling/Tasting Perception checks. In addition, they receive the Superior Magic Resistance, Literacy, and Tinkering Talents at the start. As a race, they receive a +1 to hit with propelled missile weapons (including ballista). Gnomes gain 1 craft skill of choice and a lore skill of choice. Gnomes also gain the Mechanical Aptitude Enhancement at character generation. Gnomes possess 60 ft Darkvision.
Gnomes (and goblins to a lesser extent) are well versed in the seven simple tools, and even their children receive instruction in these concepts early in life. This establishes the foundation for their fondness in the development of simple machines. Gnomish tinkerers are experts in developing simple machines. While they cannot create a gasoline-powered engine, they have achieved limited success with steam.
Gnomes can procreate with Dwarves and Halflings. Gnome–Dwarven unions produce a halfling-like offspring, while a Gnome–Halfling union produces a Gnome offspring. Though not commonly known, Gnomes can also procreate with Goblins the result of such a union produces a Goblin child. It is for this reason that most scholars believe that Gnomes and Goblins share a common ancestry.
Racial Advantages:
Extended Life span (202-240 years)
Intelligence Superior Stat (D6+1)
Constitution Superior Stat (D6+1)
Superior Smell/Taste (+2) to perception and skill checks to such rolls
Gain the Mechanical Aptitude Enhancement
Gain Literacy, and Tinkering Talents at start
Gain (+1) to hit with propelled missiles (including ballista)
Gain ONE craft skill of choice
Gain ONE lore skill of choice
Darkvision 60 ft Range
(+2) to Resist Magic spells/rituals cast at them
(+2) to Resist Poison/Toxins
Racial Disadvantages:
Reduced Size (height), (-2) HPS
Cannot possess the Holy Warrior, Ranger, or Paladin Vocations
Strength Stat Reduction (D4)
Strength Stat capped at (D10)
Reduced Ground Movement (80 ft per combat round)
(-1) to Riding Land Based skill checks