The Men FFXIV Needs

[Lauront]

And I think that especially Gaius is perfect proof that a masculine face doesn't rely on being hairy. He has a masculine, traditionally handsome face that works without any hair and you'd never think "No beard, looks like a little boy".

Indeed. I like stubble (as my character will attest), or even beards on some characters, but by and large I think the facial features available through the character creator need to be such that you can design a masculine, traditionally handsome face, as you put it, even without one.

[SturmChurro]

Indeed. I like stubble (as my character will attest), or even beards on some characters, but by and large I think the facial features available through the character creator need to be such that you can design a masculine, traditionally handsome face, as you put it, even without one.

I tend to think a clean shaven or stubble look looks better on a man, but aside from that, a lot of beards in games just generally look badly done. Like a glued on prop.

[Vatom]

Aaaa men!! Amen!! 100% good sir

[Jagick]

After all the shit the WoL has been through, I'd like to give them 5 o'clock shadow, dark baggy eyes, and an apathetic dead inside expression. That being said, we have an expressions menu in game but why aren't they persistent?

I don't understand how a 10 year old MMO has such poor character customization this late into its life.

[Atelier-Bagur]

Finally. A Thread from you I can 100% agree with.

[aveyond-dreams]

The OP has been updated to include photos of male actors that can also be used as reference material. I will post them here as well:

Henry Cavill

This man was not cast as the Witcher for nothing. With a strong jawline and mesmerizing eyes, he looks the part of hero whether he has a beard or not.

Gerard Butler

Angel or father? Friend or phantom? He has a piercing gaze and attractive face with or without facial hair and doesn’t visually disappoint.

Kit Harington

The star of Game of Thrones and captivator of hearts worldwide, many people enjoyed watching his trek through the snowy wilderness with his curled black hair blowing in the wind. He has a reassuring face I’d say, with a noble gaze that vaguely reminds me of a loyal dog.

Liam Hemsworth

With a warm regard and scruffy face, he has a very inviting and friendly appearance. At a glance, he readily looks like a dependable and trustworthy individual I’d like to take on my adventures.

Calahan Skogman

Though his on-screen presence was nowhere near as long as I would have liked, this star from Shadow and Bone stole the show whenever he came into view. With or without a beard, he exemplifies the fantasy of a “northern” warrior character.

Charlie Hunnam

They didn’t choose this man to play King Arthur for nothing, and he never fails to disappoint regardless of whatever film he’s cast in. With slicked back hair and a golden beard, combined with his impressive physique he is a top pick for any party.

[Jagick]

Hugh Jackman also proves you can look hella masculine rocking longer hair too. The new endwalker midlander face with stubble is a start I guess, but it still looks too boyish in my opinion, like a high schooler's first shave. Gimme this instead:

[Lauront]

All excellent examples... I like Mike Vogel as well:

He looks great both with stubble and without.

Hugh Jackman also proves you can look hella masculine rocking longer hair too. The new endwalker midlander face with stubble is a start I guess, but it still looks too boyish in my opinion, like a high schooler's first shave. Gimme this instead:

Reminds me a bit of Sawyer from Lost:

[TaleraRistain]

I think more customization options are a decent ask. I just don't want them to go overboard. The general male character in a JRPG aesthetic is exactly what some western fans are looking for in this game. They would need a careful balance to not lose that charm.

[artypartytime]

as a person who plays a very fem male viera and loves it..
I'd also sign on for people to get their masculine options.
Highlanders need eyebrows and like 2 more faces.