Goaulds

Goaulds are a fictional sapient species that features in speculative fiction and tabletop role-playing games. They are typically portrayed as inhabitants of extensive cave systems and subterranean river networks in the worlds where they appear. The portrayal of Goaulds varies by setting, but they are commonly depicted as resilient communities with a strong emphasis on kinship and mutual aid, and they frequently intersect with surface civilizations as traders, rivals, or allies.

Biology: Goaulds are medium-sized bipeds, usually standing about 1.6 to 1.9 meters tall. Their skin ranges from dark blues to bronze, often marked with bioluminescent patches that can glow in dim light. They possess enhanced night vision and highly sensitive tactile organs, adaptations for life in low-light environments. Reproduction and life cycle vary by depiction, but most lore places their average lifespan around 90 to 150 years, with long childhoods and extended elderhood.

Society and culture: Goaulds organize themselves into clans or councils led by elders or matriarchs, depending on the locale. They value memory, craft, and resource stewardship, and they are known for skilled stonework, metalwork, and geothermal technology that taps underground heat sources. Their language is described as polysynthetic with rich oral tradition; some settings feature written forms using carved runes or ceramic tablets. Social norms emphasize collective decision-making and reciprocity.

History and interactions: In many settings, Goaulds emerged from subterranean cultures long before contact with surface peoples. They have been portrayed as guardians of ancient knowledge, guardians of sacred caverns, and stewards of underground ecosystems. Relationships with other species range from cautious diplomacy to conflict, though modern portrayals often emphasize cooperation and cultural exchange. The Goaulds’ representation varies by author and game system, reflecting broader world-building goals.