LizardFolk versus TheReptilians

Title said. What are the main differences between these two tropes? As an example, in a space fantasy setting, does a lizard-like race that are not evil shapeshifters count as the former or the latter?

I've always been under the impression that The Reptilians is pretty much specifically about the "Lizard People conspiracy theory" or at least inspiration from it. Your example would probably just be Lizard Folk (I'm pretty sure that's what Star Trek's Gorn are listed as, for instance).

I'll ditto that one. Someone says "Reptilian" and I would associate it with the conspiracy theory specifically rather than just lizard-themed aliens in a sci-fi setting.

Per the trope descriptions, the main difference is that The Reptilians are found in sci-fi settings and are typically high-tech befitting the setting, whereas Lizard Folk are found in fantasy settings and are usually primitive. I'm not sure that's enough distinction to merit separate tropes.

Since nrjxll mentioned the Gorn, I checked. Most of the reptilian Star Trek races, including the Gorn, are currently listed under both tropes, although some are listed only under The Reptilians. I can't speak to the conspiracy theory, because I'm not familiar with it.

The term "Reptilian" is heavily associated with conspiracy that certain world leaders have been replaced by or (in the case of the British Royal Family) were born as members of extraterrestrial/extradimensional lizard like creatures who secretly rule the world from behind the scenes. It's most prominent proponent is a man known as David Icke. Basically a combination of V1983 and The Illuminati

edited 25th Jun '18 4:53:35 PM by KnightofLsama