Game
Khajiit Lore Explained
Discover the Khajiit, the cat-like people from Elsweyr in The Elder Scrolls. Explore their unique lore, culture, and impact on the world of Tamriel.
What is it?
The Khajiit are a playable race of cat-like people from the universe of The Elder Scrolls video game series. Hailing from the province of Elsweyr, their appearance varies dramatically depending on the phases of Tamriel's two moons, Masser and Secunda, at the time of their birth. This results in forms ranging from the near-elven Ohmes to the massive, rideable Senche-Raht. Renowned for their natural agility and stealth, Khajiit are often stereotyped as clever traders, skilled thieves, and deadly warriors. Their culture is deeply rooted in trade, sugar (especially a substance called Moon Sugar), and a unique pantheon of gods.
Why is it trending?
Khajiit have been a fan-favorite race since their earliest appearances, but their popularity surged with games like Skyrim and The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO). The Elsweyr expansion for ESO, in particular, brought their vibrant homeland and complex history to the forefront, allowing players to explore their culture in unprecedented detail. Their distinct speech patterns, nomadic caravan lifestyle, and mysterious lore make them a constant subject of community discussion, fan art, and in-game role-playing, ensuring their enduring relevance among fans.
How does it affect people?
For players, choosing a Khajiit character offers a distinct gameplay experience, often encouraging stealth, archery, or charismatic builds. In the world of Tamriel, they provide a narrative lens on themes of prejudice and marginalization, as Khajiit are often distrusted and barred from entering major cities. This forces players to engage with the world's social dynamics differently. Their cultural connection to the addictive substance Skooma also introduces complex moral and economic elements into the game, making interactions with Khajiit characters memorable and impactful.