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Gremlin

Gremlin · The Machine-Breaking Yokai — A Prankster of the Modern Technological Age

A small, cunning modern creature that secretly breaks machines and devices. Born in the early 20th century among aircraft mechanics as an unseen being causing inexplicable malfunctions. Small and nimble and mischievous, it slips into planes, engines, and electronics to commit sabotage. The newest form of creature born of technological civilization.

Origin

Derived from the military slang and lore of British air-force pilots and mechanics in the World War eras. Popularized through Roald Dahl's story and others, established as a modern creature personifying the misfortune and breakdown of the technological age.

Features

Small nimble build, cunning expression
Secretly breaks machines and devices
Targets planes, engines, and electronics
Personification of inexplicable accident and misfortune

Stories

Appears as a being personifying the misfortune of technological civilization and a saboteur of comic horror and adventure. Used in modern narratives of uncontrollable accident, human arrogance, and dependence on machines.

Weakness

Obsessed with pranks and sabotage, easily driven off once caught. Individually weak, and helpless in an environment without machines.