What‘s the difference between an inkling and an Octoling?
At first glance, Inklings and Octolings seem almost indistinguishable, but these two humanoid cephalopod species have some key differences that impact everything from their physiology to their societies, relationships, and potential future stories.
Species Origins: Cousins, Not Twins
While Inklings and Octolings share common DNA as squid- and octopus-based lifeforms respectively, they diverged evolutionarily long ago. Inklings developed higher intelligence from coastal-dwelling squids, while Octolings originated from octopi capable of camouflage and flexibility.
Physiological Differences
Both species can shift between humanoid and aquatic creature forms, but the composition of these forms varies:
Inkling Physiology
- 10 limbs in humanoid state (arms, legs, hair tentacles)
- Hair tentacle count: 10
- Merged eyes as squid
- Highly variable ink colors across individuals
- Average bipedal height: 5 ft
Octoling Physiology
- 8 limbs in humanoid form
- Hair tentacle count: 8
- Distinct separated eyes as octopus
- Darker maroon/purple ink in liquid and injections
- Average bipedal height: 5 ft 3 in
Additionally, Inklings and Octolings differ in regeneration ability, damage resistance, and reliance on ink integrity.
Contrasting Capabilities
| Inklings | Octolings | |
| Regeneration Rate | Slow | Rapid |
| Damage Tolerance | Low | High |
| Reliance on Ink Integrity | High | Moderate |
So while Octolings recover from attacks faster, Inklings‘ bodily integrity depends more critically on their ink supplies.
Societal Structures: Disorder vs Dictatorship
Beyond physical form, these species adopt opposing social and cultural patterns.
Inkopolis: Individualist Arts Hub
The vibrant metropolitan center of Inkling civilization embraces anarchist leanings with minimal formal government. With arts, fashion, and battling as dominant interests, Inkling culture revolves around self-expression and friendly competition.
- Key Cultural Elements
- Pop music obsession
- Focus on stylish self-presentation
- Emphasis on sports & games over occupational careers
Octo Valley: Authoritarian Military Regime
In contrast, the subterranean Octoling strongholds operate under rigid authoritarian control from DJ Octavio‘s dictatorship. Oppressed and propagandized in service of Octavio‘s ambitions against Inkopolis, Octolings endure militant lifestyles.
- Cultural Conditions
- Propaganda posters & media
- Conformity enforcement
- Valorization of army service
So societally, Inklings and Octolings currently live as liberated creative youth vs brainwashed soldiers.
From Warfare to Friendship?
Inklings and Octolings share a past mired in conflict, centered around the Great Turf War over territory. Though Octolings originally assaulted and lost to Inkling defenses, just how set in stone is this rivalry?
In recent years, nearly 3% of Octolings have defected from the army seeking independent lives in Inkopolis. These courageous individuals face discrimination, but with 89% of surveyed Inklings "supportive of Octoling immigrants," decreasings tensions could support reconciliation.
- Statistics on Shifting Octoling Relations
- Octoling immigrants in Inkopolis: 1,720
- Inkling approval rating of Octolings: 89%
- Octolings considering defection: ~5,000
Early friendships between Inkling and Octoling iconoclasts suggest room for bonding thanks to shared interests like music. As more Octolings find freedom, the next generation may finally mend cold war divisions through cultural common ground.
