Caridans are a tall, avian-descended Star Wars species native to the harsh world of Carida, a planet known for its extreme climates, mountainous terrain, and historically significant military academies. Featured across Legends material, Caridans evolved powerful limbs, elongated forms, and sharp senses that reflect their origins as cliff-dwelling hunters and territorial survivors. Their physical presence—imposing height, digitigrade legs, and fierce avian facial structure—makes them instantly recognizable among the galaxy’s many Species.
The planet Carida grew famous across the galaxy as one of the Empire’s premier training sites, and Caridans found themselves alternately overshadowed by or entangled with Imperial military legacy. Yet the Caridan people themselves maintain a distinct cultural identity rooted not in the Empire’s history, but in their ancestral traditions of endurance, honor, and communal defense. Many Caridans view themselves as guardians of heritage rather than symbols of military doctrine.
Caridan social structure developed around extended clan networks that navigated Carida’s vertical landscapes, relying on strength, coordination, and cooperative hunting. These clans cultivated strong bonds and rigorous rites of passage that determined social standing. Even those who eventually integrated into modern cities retained these values, emphasizing personal discipline, controlled aggression, and respect for strength.
During the Imperial era, many Caridans entered military service—not because of ideological alignment, but because their physiology and instincts aligned naturally with martial training. After the fall of the Empire, Caridans forged new roles across the galaxy as mercenaries, wilderness specialists, lawkeepers, and security operatives. Their reputation for discipline and adaptability makes them valued team members in high-pressure environments.
Offworld, Caridans grapple with prejudice stemming from Carida’s Imperial association. Those who encounter them for the first time often assume they are soldiers, enforcers, or aggressors. Yet Caridans are far more nuanced: thoughtful, honor-bound individuals shaped by a demanding homeworld and the struggle to define their identity beyond politics.
As player characters, Caridans offer hybrid strengths—physical dominance, disciplined thinking, and cultural depth. They excel in roles involving frontline combat, scouting, defense, or leadership and provide compelling narrative opportunities stemming from their homeworld’s complex legacy.
Home Planet: Carida
Physical Description: Caridans are tall and imposing humanoids ranging from 2.1 to 2.4 meters in height, with strong avian ancestry evident in their bone structure, posture, and facial design. They typically possess elongated, angular skulls, sharp features, and deep-set eyes adapted for long-distance focus. Their bodies are lean yet muscular, supported by digitigrade legs built for powerful leaps and sustained running across rugged terrain.
Their skin ranges from light tan to deep ochre, sometimes featuring feather-like ridges along the forearms, scalp, or shoulders. Caridans’ broad chests and elongated arms provide exceptional climbing ability and strong leverage in melee combat. Their voices carry a sharp, resonant timbre that reflects both avian heritage and physical maturity.
Caridan attire varies by region. Traditional clans wear layered hides, carved ornaments, and rope harnesses for cliff traversal, while modern Caridans favor tactical gear, reinforced fabrics, and lightweight armor suited to martial or security roles.
Average Height: 2.2 meters
Average Weight: 120 kilograms
Age of Adulthood: 18 standard years
Personality & Customs: Caridans are disciplined, proud, and intensely loyal to their clans and comrades. Their upbringing emphasizes endurance, self-control, and respect for hierarchical skill rather than birthright. Those who demonstrate exceptional strength or strategic ability rise quickly to leadership roles, and clan bonds remain strong even in diaspora.
Caridan customs often involve ritualized combat, controlled sparring, or feats of athletic prowess to determine status and resolve disputes. Clans prize individuals who show restraint and honor more than raw aggression, and those who break tradition for personal gain face severe social consequences.
As adventurers, Caridans bring a blend of martial efficiency, tactical awareness, and steadfast loyalty. Their presence reinforces group stability in combat or exploration, and their personal narratives often revolve around overcoming prejudice, preserving heritage, or navigating the legacy of their Imperial-era homeworld.
Languages: Caridan, Basic
Example Names: Furgan, Deyla Var, Korren Bral, Mavik Tor, Selanne Krell