Final Fantasy XIV - Races

Final Fantasy XIV offers a diverse lineup of races for players. You can journey through Eorzea as a human-like Hyur, sturdy Roegadyn, wise Elezen, adorable Lalafell, or the half-man, half-beast Hrothgar. Each race can excel in any Job, letting you craft your ideal hero for the world of Final Fantasy.

With so many races to choose from, new players might find it tough to decide. This guide lists all playable races in FFXIV, describing their attributes, lore, and personalities to help you choose the one you like best.

In the end, it all comes down to what you think looks cool or interesting, so go with what catches your eye!

All Races in Final Fantasy XIV

When you start playing Final Fantasy XIV, one of the first things you do is choose your character's race. There are eight races:

• Hyur: Versatile and balanced, with Highlander and Midlander clans.
• Elezen: Tall and wise, with Wildwood and Duskwight clans.
• Lalafell: Small and smart, with Plainsfolk and Dunesfolk clans.
• Miqo'te: Agile and fierce, with Seekers of the Sun and Keepers of the Moon clans.
• Roegadyn: Strong and sturdy, with Sea Wolves and Hellsguard clans.
• Au Ra: Mysterious and draconic, with Raen and Xaela clans.
• Viera: Graceful and forest-dwelling, with the new male option added in Endwalker.
• Hrothgar: Powerful and beast-like, known for their unique looks.

FFXIV has no racial abilities, so no race has a gameplay advantage. You can pick the race you find most visually appealing or interesting without worrying about gameplay impact.

Starting Attributes

In Final Fantasy XIV, each playable race has starting attributes that impact early-game performance more significantly. As your character advances and gains points in each stat, these differences diminish.

By the end-game, your race's initial attributes matter less compared to your equipment, abilities, and overall strategy. So, while choosing a race such as Lalafell or Hrothgar may influence your stats initially, your success in Eorzea ultimately hinges on your skill and gear decisions as you progress.

How to Change Your Race in Final Fantasy XIV?

To change your character's race in FFXIV, you'll need a Phial of Fantasia. This item lets you change your appearance, including your race. You get one free Phial of Fantasia when you complete the level 50 main story quest, Ultima Weapon. If you need more or don't want to wait, you can buy them from the Final Fantasy XIV Online Store with real money.

Hyur

The Hyur are the human-like race in Final Fantasy XIV, forming the majority of Eorzea's population. With a history of over a thousand years and three major migrations, they are central to Eorzean society.

Hyur are versatile in skills and personalities, with a slender, athletic build that suits most armor. You can play as either male or female, and they live in most parts of Eorzea.

There are two main types of Hyur: Midlander and Highlander.

Midlander

The Midlanders make up half of the Hyur population in Eorzea. They have a balanced physique, with average height and build, making them versatile for any adventurer.

Their adaptability and balanced stats make Midlanders great for any class. Their rich history and common presence in the realm make them an approachable choice for both new players and veterans.

Highlander

Unlike Midlanders, Highlanders are known for their strong, muscular build. They come from the rugged mountains of Gyr Abania. These warriors have a history of resilience, but their past darkened when the Garlean Empire invaded, forcing them to flee to the dry lands of Thanalan.

Their strength and warrior spirit make them perfect for roles like tanks and melee damage dealers.

Elezen

In the vast realm of Eorzea in Final Fantasy XIV, the Elezen are a prominent race known for their grace and longevity. With pointed ears and elegant features, they resemble elves and have a deep history intertwined with their homeland.

The Elezen originally dominated Eorzea until the Hyur arrived, sparking tensions and conflicts. Eventually, mutual understanding eased these tensions, leading to a fragile peace between the races.

There are two main types of Elezen: Wildwood and Duskwight.

Wildwood

These warriors are closely connected to the forests of the Black Shroud. Proud and traditional, many have integrated into cities like Gridania and Ishgard while preserving their heritage.

Duskwight

Preferring solitude, these Elezen dwell in underground caverns across Eorzea. They split from the Wildwood clan and reject city life, earning them the nickname the Greys from their counterparts.

Both clans offer unique strengths suited to different playstyles in the game. The Wildwood Elezen excel as warriors and naturalists, while the Duskwight Elezen are skilled in magic and seclusion.

Lalafell

In Final Fantasy XIV, the Lalafell are a small yet dynamic race living in tall spires and lush forests. Known for their petite frames and youthful faces, they possess sharp intellect and impressive skills in commerce and craftsmanship, rivaling even the largest nations.

Most Lalafell are skilled craftsmen, engineers, and merchants eager to build relationships. Don't let their size fool you, Lalafell warriors and mages are as tough as any other race.

There are two types of Lalafell: Plainsfolk and Dunesfolk.

Plainsfolk

The Plainsfolk are a laidback and friendly type of Lalafell that likes to relax and work as farmers in the fields of La Noscea.

They can also be seen in Limsa Lominsa working as fishermen or becoming officers in the city's security force, the Yellowjackets.

Dunesfolk

Dunesfolk Lalafell are the Plainsfolk's hard working and commercially obsessed counterpart. They live in the harsh region of Thanalan but that didn't stop them from making a profit in a seemingly parched land.

This led the Dunesfolk to found Ul'dah, becoming its leaders and opening trade routes with other regions, ensuring the city's prosperity while others might have failed.

So, if you're drawn to a race that combines intellect, agility, and a charmingly diminutive stature, look no further than the Lalafell.

Miqo'te

The Miqo'te in Eorzea are known for their cat-like features - cat ears and twitching tails. Miqo'te are great hunters with sharp senses of smell, sight, and hearing.

The Miqo'te originate from the Age of Endless Frost in the Fifth Umbral Era. Their ancestors crossed icy seas to hunt, making them skilled in harsh conditions. This history has made them territorial and often solitary. Miqo'te males, in particular, are shy and avoid large social gatherings.

There are two types of Miqo'te: Seekers of the Sun and Keepers of the Moon

Seekers of the Sun

One of the main Miqo'te clans, the Seekers of the Sun, love daylight and worship Azeyma the Warden, the sun god. They have fair skin and live in places like the Sagolii Desert and Limsa Lominsa. Their outgoing nature makes them great adventurers, always looking for new experiences in the sun.

Keepers of the Moon

The other main clan, the Keepers of the Moon, are night lovers. With darker skin, they are often found in the forests near Gridania. They follow Menphina the Lover, the moon goddess. Though once accused of poaching, they now live peacefully, showing their love for harmony even at night.

Their sharp senses and agility make them excellent in many roles, from swift archers to powerful mages. Despite being territorial, they form strong connections, adding to Eorzea’s rich culture.

Roegadyn

Renowned for their massive, muscular frames and intimidating presence, Roegadyn trace their ancestry to northern seafarers. Yet, beneath their fierce exterior, they are known for their loyalty and deep compassion.

Roegadyn ancestors were seafarers who ventured south to Eorzea. Today, Roegadyn work in tough jobs like sailors, smiths, and bodyguards. They have a reputation as powerful warriors, a trait passed down through generations.

There are two types of Roegadyn: the Sea Wolves and the Hellsguard.

Sea Wolves

The Sea Wolves come from northern islands and have a history of being seafarers and pirates. Due to Limsa Lominsa's anti-piracy laws, they now work as navy officers, fishermen, and mercenaries.

Hellsguard

The Hellsguard are from the volcanic mountains of Abalathia's Spine, believed to be gateways to the underworld. They are adapted to harsh climates and often found in Eorzea’s cities, especially Ul'dah, serving as soldiers, mercenaries, and members of the Immortal Flames.

Playing as a Roegadyn in Final Fantasy XIV means embracing strength, loyalty, and resilience.

Au Ra

The Au Ra are the only race in Final Fantasy XIV with horns. Introduced in Heavensward, they hail from the eastern land of Othard. With horns, scales, and lizard-like tails, they are unique and often linked to draconic ancestry, though there's no proof.

There are two types of Au Ra: Raen and Xaela

The Raen

The Raen Au Ra dwell peacefully in Othard's valleys, believed to have received their bright white scales as a gift from the mythical Dawn Father.

They cherish tranquility and seldom venture beyond their homeland. However, those who do venture out contribute calmness and wisdom to Eorzea, excelling as healers and supportive companions.

The Xaela

The Xaela Au Ra have dark scales and live a nomadic life. They are thought to be descendants of the Dusk Mother and are known for their warrior spirit.

Xaela clans are always on the move, hunting, and fighting, embodying their wild ancestry.

Hrothgar

The Hrothgar, introduced in Shadowbringers, are a unique race with lion-like features that bring diversity to Final Fantasy XIV. Originally from Ilsabard, they offer players a rich history and complex society to explore.

When Hrothgar first arrived in Eorzea, they were mistaken for aggressive Beastmen, sparking conflicts. Through persistence and learning the common language, they overcame misunderstandings and integrated into Eorzean society as skilled warriors, craftsmen, and adventurers.

The Hrothgar are divided into two types: the Helions and the Lost.

Helions

The Helions are loyal to their queens and live in souther Ilsabard. Known for their communal lifestyle and unwavering service, they possess natural strength and vitality, making them formidable in combat and excellent protectors.

The Lost

The Lost are a nomadic group that values exploration and learning. They roam the world, taking on various trades and adapting to different environments.

Known for their lighter fur and independent spirit, they often work as mercenaries or craftsmen to support their wandering lifestyle.

Choosing a Hrothgar character means diving into a rich lore of resilience and adaptation.

Viera

In the vibrant world of Eorzea, the Viera stand out with their grace, strength, and mystery. Introduced in the Shadowbringers expansion, they quickly became fan favorites, combining elegance and ferocity.

The Viera live secluded lives in woodland homes, following the strict Green Word code that forbids them from leaving their forests; those who break this rule risk exile. Their profound bond with nature and secretive lifestyle make them one of Eorzea's rarest races.

There are two types of Viera: the Rava and the Veena.

Rava

The Rava Viera hail from Golmore's dense jungles, known for their dark skin and earthy tones that help them blend in.

They excel as hunters and fierce defenders against the challenges of their rugged homeland, facing both wild beasts and Dalmasca threats with unwavering determination.

Veena

The Veena Viera hail from the snowy Skatay Range, known for their fairer skin compared to the Rava. Despite the harsh cold, they are resilient fighters, skilled in hunting and combat. Many Veena have perished defending their homeland, and some seek refuge in Eorzea for a chance at a better life.

Male Viera were once secluded guardians of the forests in Final Fantasy XIV, while only female Viera were playable. Now, with the Endwalker expansion, players can experience the diversity of male Viera and explore new narrative paths.

The Viera are a fascinating race in Final Fantasy XIV, blending natural grace with strong combat skills.

Tips for Choosing a Race

• Two Variants: Most races have two clans or variants, each with distinct characteristics and base stats. For instance, the Hyur have Highlanders, who excel in physical strength, and Midlanders, who have balanced attributes. Choose the clan that suits your playstyle.
• Physical Appearance: Consider how your race will look in various gear and armor sets. The height and build of races like the Elezen or Lalafell can affect how gear appears on your character.
• Lore and Background: Immerse yourself in the rich lore of your chosen race. Understanding your character’s background can enhance your role-playing experience and make your journey through Eorzea more engaging.
• Changing Your Race: If you want to switch races later, use a Phial of Fantasia, available through in-game quests or the online store, to change races without starting over.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a race in Final Fantasy XIV is personal, shaping your character's appearance and your connection to Eorzea. Each of the eight races, from human-like Hyur to beast-like Hrothgar, offers unique lore, aesthetics, and starting attributes. These distinctions enrich role-playing without affecting gameplay mechanics, as all races can excel in any Job.

As you progress in the world of Final Fantasy XIV, you may encounter various challenges. If you want to speed up your progress, use the Final Fantasy XIV Boost Service.

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Change Log

• 02.07.2024 - Final Fantasy XIV Races overview published.