Why are you playing as your race / gender combination?

[SilkaN]

Because that's the one you like most.

But have you ever asked yourself why?
I've been asking that myself lately and will try to put it into words.

Why am I playing as a female?
- Because I don't like staring at manbutts all the time. Especially not in a Final Fantasy game. Also, I don't need a character resembling myself performing heroic deeds. I'm awesome enough already. ;^)

Why a Highlander?
- Because even though this is a (Final) fantasy game, I do need some realism.
Highlanders have the perfect build, they can lift big swords, axes and spears without it looking questionable, but are still agile enough to not look weird as Ninjas and Bards.
You don't see muscular casters very often, but if you think about it, being muscular does not prevent them from annihilating their foes with magic. It only makes them look better. :3
They are versatile, attractive and their emotes are the most fabulous.

Why are you playing as your race / gender combination?
If your answer is "because of FFXI", then please take your time to elaborate.