The Problem with Gnomes in D&D

Summary

In this video, the creator reimagines the D&D gnome race, shifting away from the stereotypical tinkerer archetype and embracing a deeper connection to the Feywild. They propose a visual redesign of gnomes to make them more distinct, with angular features and whimsical qualities. The speaker introduces 'pucks,' a subgroup of gnomes who wear masks reflecting their emotions and pursue a 'Muse' — a personal obsession that defines their lives. This new take encourages richer character motivations and adventures, turning gnomes into more complex, engaging characters rather than mere NPCs.

Takeaways

• 😀 Gnomes are often stereotyped as tinkers, but this narrow focus limits their potential as a race in D&D.
• 😀 The speaker proposes a visual redesign of gnomes, incorporating whimsical and angular features like pointy noses and sloping foreheads to distinguish them from other races.
• 😀 Gnomes have deep roots in folklore, often associated with being underground fae creatures linked to the Feywild and Underdark.
• 😀 The 'Puck' concept introduces a new subrace of gnomes with masks that reflect their emotions, tying their identity to an object of fascination called a 'Muse.'
• 😀 Pucks are portrayed as skittish and reclusive, hiding their faces with masks and living in seclusion within the Feywild or Underdark.
• 😀 A gnome's 'Muse' drives their motivations and roleplay, with potential Muses ranging from arts to detective work, allowing for varied character development.
• 😀 Gnomes without a Muse are marginalized in their culture, often leading to a quest for self-discovery and adventure.
• 😀 The speaker emphasizes the value of giving gnomes a deeper cultural and emotional framework to make them more engaging and playable as PCs.
• 😀 The redesign allows gnomes to be more than NPC fodder, giving players the opportunity to develop gnomes with rich backstories and motivations.
• 😀 The 'Puck' gnome subrace gives players a chance to explore the concept of masks and emotional expression, adding depth to roleplaying opportunities.
• 😀 The speaker invites viewers to try out their custom gnome race, 'Puck,' which is available for use in D&D, showcasing their redesign as a unique addition to the game.

Q & A

What is the primary criticism of the traditional portrayal of gnomes in D&D?

The primary criticism is that gnomes are overly defined by their tinkering skills, which limits their cultural and character depth. This narrow focus on tinkering makes them feel more like NPCs rather than viable player characters.

How does the speaker propose redesigning gnomes to make them more distinct from other D&D races?

The speaker suggests giving gnomes a unique visual identity with pointy noses, sloping foreheads, and wild hair. Unlike halflings, who are round and full, gnomes would have more angular features, reflecting their curious and whimsical nature.

What new cultural connection does the speaker introduce for gnomes in the video?

The speaker introduces a connection between gnomes and the Feywild, particularly focusing on a subgroup of gnomes, called 'pucks,' who live in the Feydark and are driven by a deep, personal obsession or 'Muse.' This ties gnomes more closely to mythological and folkloric traditions.

What is the significance of the puck’s mask in the speaker’s redesign?

The puck’s mask is an important cultural symbol. It reflects their emotions and is considered an extension of their identity. Pucks wear these masks at all times, revealing their feelings only to those they trust deeply or upon their death.

What is a 'Muse' in the context of the puck character design?

A 'Muse' is an object of fascination or obsession that pucks dedicate their lives to studying and learning from. Each puck crafts a mask inspired by their Muse, which becomes the driving force behind their life and actions.

How do pucks' Muses influence their careers and social standing?

Pucks with valuable Muses rise quickly in both puckish society and the Feywild courts. Those whose Muses are less valued, however, may struggle with societal expectations and may even leave their community in search of greater purpose or adventure.

What are some examples of Muses that pucks might pursue?

Examples of Muses include combat, medicine, music, or detective work. Some pucks may pursue highly regarded Muses, such as becoming great heroes or master craftsmen, while others may struggle to find a Muse that brings value or meaning to their culture.

What happens when a puck cannot find their Muse?

Pucks who cannot find their Muse may be ostracized or looked down upon, often being pushed to leave their community and seek out their Muse elsewhere. These pucks are seen as incomplete or lacking in purpose.

How does the speaker’s redesign make gnomes more suitable as player characters?

By giving gnomes the pursuit of a Muse and a rich cultural backstory, the redesign provides players with motivations and character development hooks. The unique emphasis on personal obsession allows for a wide variety of character concepts, from detectives to adventurers seeking their Muse.

What connection does the speaker draw between gnomes and other mythological creatures?

The speaker draws a connection between gnomes and folklore creatures, particularly underground fae spirits, who are often depicted with similar traits like curiosity, whimsy, and a connection to nature. This alignment with folklore enriches the gnome’s cultural identity, making them feel more aligned with the mystical and mysterious.