I have been wanting this for so long. Instead we got two! cat races.
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The Qu from Final Fantasy IX. I'd Fanta in an instant.
https://i.redd.it/c1fc7t9skn381.png
New races are one of my favourite aspects of following along with MMOs' development, so I was definitely disappointed by their decision (despite how badly Viera and Hrothgar turned out). As for hypothetical future races...
I know it just comes down to FFIX's art style in that game, but Genomes from FFIX could've probably worked as recycled Lalafell? Would've ensured there's a tailed option for every size lol.
Playable winged characters is something video games avoid like the plague, but considering there's already flight in FFXIV (conditional though it is), the Aegyl from the FFXII sequel could've been another option.
I also recall seeing that interview where Yoshida talked about their wanting a reptilian race. I actually like Au Ra the way they are, more human than otherwise, so Idk how I would've felt about straight up just Argonians (or close enough). I know I would've liked a reptilian female option that isn't tiny, but depending how realistic they choose to be there might not even have been a female option?
Bangaas but that is because I really liked seeing them in XII.
For a MMO aspect though...
Man, that's just reminding me we could have had Viangaa instead of Viera... :)
I think it's safe to say anything with a pronounced snout (Burmecians, Bangaa) is off the table, considering how much they're struggling even with Hrothgar. On the other hand, if they outright said "this race will never be compatible with hats" it would free them up to do weirder things. Or would've, hypothetically.
YES! End to this silly furry discrimination.
I'd fanta to a bangaa in an instant, even if I adore my hrothgar. Bangaa have been my favorite FF race for years.