A Tip for New Players: How to Choose A Race in Final Fantasy XIV: ARR

The Final Fantasy XIV race selection system presents one of the most engaging character creation experiences in modern MMORPGs, blending deep Japanese aesthetic design with rich lore foundations. New adventurers often face decision paralysis when confronted with the diverse options, as each race features meticulously crafted visual appeal and cultural depth. This comprehensive guide breaks down each option to help you make an informed choice that aligns with your playstyle preferences.

Eorzea’s playable races in FFXIV: A Realm Reborn include the elegant Elezen, versatile Hyur, diminutive Lalafell, feline Miqo’te, and powerful Roegadyn. Every race contains two distinct clans with separate historical backgrounds and cultural practices that influence their physical characteristics and societal roles. Additionally, the upcoming FFXIV Version 3.0 Heavensward expansion introduces the draconic Au Ra race, adding another layer of diversity to character creation options.

The Elezen represent Eorzea’s indigenous elf-like race, possessing distinctive elongated features and graceful movements that set them apart visually. As the continent’s original inhabitants, they maintained nomadic traditions and once claimed exclusive dominion over these lands, predating all other races’ arrivals. Their division into Wildwood and Duskwight clans reflects fundamentally different lifestyle adaptations and environmental specializations.

Wildwood Elezen thrive within forest environments, having developed exceptionally sharp visual acuity that makes them naturally gifted archers and scouts. Their woodland upbringing fosters a deep connection to nature and exceptional tracking abilities. Conversely, Duskwight Elezen adopted reclusive existences within subterranean cave systems, which honed their auditory perception to extraordinary levels for detecting subtle environmental sounds. The historical tensions between these clans stem from centuries of cultural divergence and competing territorial claims.

Hyur constitute Eorzea’s most numerous race, closely resembling real-world humans in appearance and adaptability. They originated from surrounding continents and islands through three major migration waves that gradually established their demographic dominance. Their Midlander and Highlander clan divisions represent contrasting philosophical approaches to civilization and societal organization.

Midlander Hyur prioritize educational advancement and cultural refinement, earning recognition as the world’s most sophisticated and learned populace. They excel in scholarly pursuits, trade, and diplomatic endeavors. Highlanders present more robust physiques than their Midlander relatives and formerly governed the majestic city-state of Ala Mhigo before the Garlean Empire’s devastating invasion destroyed their homeland. Following this catastrophe, surviving Highlanders predominantly sustain themselves through mercenary work, leveraging their formidable combat prowess.

Lalafell stand as compact humanoids renowned for their exceptional agility and intellectual capabilities, originally hailing from southern archipelagos where they developed advanced agricultural techniques. Their compact stature belies impressive dexterity and cognitive sharpness that makes them excellent crafters, traders, and magical practitioners. The Plainsfolk and Dunesfolk clans demonstrate how environmental factors shape cultural development and physical adaptation.

Plainsfolk Lalafell maintain deep terrestrial connections, flourishing across expansive grasslands and developing sophisticated farming communities. Dunesfolk practice unique nomadic lifestyles, literally residing atop colossal beasts of burden while adorning their foreheads with zodiac-signifying gemstones that hold cultural and spiritual significance. Their mobile settlements and trade networks span desert regions, facilitating cultural exchange and economic prosperity.

Miqo’te present as distinctly feline humanoids characterized by expressive tails, ear movements, and facial features. During the glacial Age of Endless Frost, when oceanic freezing created new migration routes, Eorzea experienced significant foreign influxes including Miqo’te populations. Their deeply spiritual nature manifests through devotion to celestial deities, with clan divisions based on solar and lunar worship traditions.

Seekers of the Sun dedicate themselves to Azeyma the Warden, sun goddess associated with light, truth, and revelation. Keepers of the Moon practice nocturnal lifestyles honoring Menphina the Lover, moon goddess connected to protection, affection, and secrecy. These religious affiliations influence daily routines, social structures, and even combat preferences among Miqo’te characters.

Roegadyn impress with their substantial muscular builds and maritime heritage, originating from northern sea regions that shaped their nautical expertise and physical resilience. Their Sea Wolves and Hellsguard clans represent divergent paths from shared ancestral roots, adapting to completely different environments and developing specialized skill sets.

Sea Wolves formerly operated as formidable pirate fleets but have largely transitioned to legitimate maritime professions as sailors and naval mercenaries. Hellsguard inhabit volcanic territories where they’ve mastered mystical arts and supposedly guard infernal gateways, their volcanic upbringing granting unique resistance capabilities and earth-based magical affinities.

Racial distinctions extend beyond visual appearance to include statistical variations that minimally influence character performance. The accompanying chart details each FFXIV race, their respective subraces, and corresponding attribute distributions across strength, dexterity, vitality, intelligence, mind, and piety characteristics.

Statistical analysis reveals that attribute differences remain relatively minor and don’t substantially affect endgame capabilities, as gear and level progression overwhelmingly determine final performance metrics. This design philosophy encourages players to prioritize aesthetic preferences and role-playing considerations over min-maxing approaches during character creation.

When selecting your race, consider that appearance customization represents one of the few permanent character decisions in FFXIV. While race changes become available later through paid services, your initial choice will define your character’s visual identity throughout most gameplay. Evaluate each race’s animation styles, emotes, and overall aesthetic appeal, as these elements significantly impact long-term satisfaction with your character’s presentation.

Role-playing enthusiasts should explore clan histories and cultural backgrounds to align character concepts with established lore. For practical guidance on class selection that complements your racial choice, consult our comprehensive Class Guide for detailed profession analysis and specialization recommendations.

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