Star Wars Universe Roleplaying Game

Gungan

Gungans are one of the most distinctive and culturally rich Species in Star Wars lore, originating from the lush, water-filled world of Naboo. Known for their amphibious physiology, resilient social structures, and deep connection to the aquatic ecosystems of their planet, Gungans have built a civilization that harmonizes advanced hydro-tech with organic architecture. Their domed underwater cities, powered by energy shields and hydrodynamic engineering, reflect a people who learned to thrive in environments where many Species could not. Their history includes periods of isolation, conflict, and eventual cooperation with the Naboo—forming one of the most meaningful examples of inter-species reconciliation in galactic history.

Naboo’s vast swamps, lakes, and underwater cave networks shaped Gungan evolution, encouraging adaptability, endurance, and a society built on clan loyalty and communal protection. Their ability to breathe both air and water, combined with their talent for riding kaadu and navigating dense marshlands, reflects a Species that maintains mastery of both land and aquatic terrains. Their world is filled with dangerous fauna—colossal fish, predatory eels, and territorial swamp creatures—requiring Gungans to develop defensive technologies rooted in energy manipulation and flexible combat tactics.

Gungan culture emphasizes unity, tradition, and shared responsibility. Their oral histories recount ancient clan wars and the formation of the modern Gungan Grand Army, a powerful defensive force specializing in fast-moving cavalry, energy shield technology, and coordinated formations. Their weapons, such as boomas and atlatls, blend natural materials with refined plasma energy, illustrating a technological style that is both aesthetically unique and tactically effective.

Although often misunderstood by outsiders, Gungans are inventive, courageous, and profoundly loyal. Their society values humility, teamwork, and courage in the face of overwhelming odds. Their leaders—known as Bosses—act as guardians of tradition and commanders in times of danger, maintaining delicate political structures that balance clan identity with collective leadership.

Relations with the surface-dwelling Naboo evolved dramatically over time. Once separated by misunderstanding and prejudice, both peoples eventually united during the invasion of Naboo, demonstrating the Gungans’ willingness to fight for peace and for the safety of all who share their world. This alliance elevated the Gungans’ status in galactic affairs and highlighted their cultural strength and strategic capability.

As player characters, Gungans offer a blend of humor, resilience, environmental awareness, and unexpected heroism. Their adaptability in water and marsh environments, coupled with their unique technology and strong communal values, makes them engaging adventurers in campaigns spanning wilderness, diplomacy, and battlefield strategy.

Home Planet: Naboo
Physical Description: Gungans are tall, long-limbed amphibians with flexible necks, expressive eye stalks, and smooth skin that varies in color from earth tones to vibrant patterns. Their heads are elongated with large, forward-facing mouths and long, floppy ears that aid in communication and emotional expression. Their bodies are well suited for both swimming and running, with powerful leg muscles, webbed digits, and a natural buoyancy that enables effortless movement in aquatic environments.

Their eye stalks allow them to maintain panoramic vision above water while their bodies remain below the surface. The ears, which droop when relaxed and rise when alert, serve as both sensory receptors and cultural symbols, often decorated with bands or paint. Gungan skin is smooth and moisture-retaining, helping them endure long periods underwater or in humid swamps.

Gungans typically wear practical leather and woven garments reinforced with swamp-resistant materials. Warriors adorn themselves with shell plates, energy-shield generators, and clan markings painted before battle. Offworld, many choose lightweight gear optimized for flexibility and temperature regulation.

Average Height: 1.8 meters
Average Weight: 70 kilograms
Age of Adulthood: 16 standard years

Personality & Customs: Gungans are brave, community-focused, and guided by strong moral values. Their society teaches respect for nature, loyalty to clan, and an unwavering commitment to defending their homeland. While their speech patterns and humor can be misunderstood by outsiders, Gungans possess sharp instincts and keen survival skills shaped by centuries of living in dangerous marshlands. They appreciate cleverness, boldness, and acts of selfless bravery.

Their customs revolve around seasonal ceremonies, communal feasts, and underwater gatherings that reinforce bonds between clans. Gungan warriors participate in traditional training rituals that emphasize agility, teamwork, and adaptability. Music and dance are central to social life, often used to celebrate victories, honor leaders, or strengthen unity during uncertain times.

As adventurers, Gungans bring courage, optimism, and creative problem-solving to any group. Their unique technological style, amphibious capabilities, and strong sense of loyalty make them well suited for exploration-focused campaigns or missions involving diplomacy between culturally distinct factions.

Languages: Gunganese and Basic (spoken with a distinctive accent).

Example Names: Fassa, Jar Jar, Rugor, Tarpals, Toba, Tobler Ceel, Yoss