Final Fantasy XIV is one of the most innovative MMORPG titles since the birth of World of Warcraft and the Diablo series. From multiple classes/Jobs to fight with and unforgettable locations to explore, it makes you wonder just what kind of hero can do all these amazing feats. These brave adventurers are the Warriors of Light, your very own customizable character!
Throughout the land of Eorzea, various populations thrive with different nationalities and cultures. While anyone can become a Warrior of Light and pick any class, some stat differences make certain races superior for a specific role/ Job in Final Fantasy XIV. Here's a list ranking the best Races you should consider playing based on stats.
All 8 of the playable Races in Final Fantasy XIV, working together to protect the realm of Eorzea.
#8: The Au Ra Race
A group of the dragonlike Au Ra people, with members of the Xaela (left) and Raen (right) Clans present.
If someone claimed they are descendants of dragons, would you believe them? If that someone is a member of the Au Ra people, then you better believe their word, that is, if their apparent scaly skin, horns, and tail don't convince you enough.
This scaly population hails from the Far East and was introduced in the Heavensward DLC expansion. Among the Auri race came two Clans, these being the Raen and Xaela people.
The Raen and Xaela Clans are similar in terms of stats; however, their difference weighs on their appearance. The Raen Clan has a lighter tone with soft, warm hair, while the Xaela sport a darker tone with cool colors. Both clans have splotches of hard scales on their arms, neck, and legs, but they appear human everywhere else from their silhouette and facial features(apart from a set of horns on their head as well).
The Raen Clan:
- Strength - 19
- Dexterity - 22
- Vitality - 19
- Intelligence - 20
- Mind - 23
The Xaela Clan:
- Strength - 23
- Dexterity - 20
- Vitality - 22
- Intelligence - 20
- Mind - 18
The Au Ra Race excels in:
- Possessing a high Strength and Mind stat.
- Sporting a unique dragon/reptilian appearance for role-play.
- Decent Intelligence stat for spell usage.
You should pick the Au Ra Race if:
- You want to make a Dragoon Job. The Xaela Clan has a high Strength value, and it makes sense for a descendant of dragons to fight as a Dragoon.
- You'd like a decent Healer Job build due to the Raen Clan's high Mind stat.
- You want to test out a standard candidate for a Physical Ranged Job.
- (Note: You'll need the Heavensward expansion to unlock the Au Ra Race.)
Overall, they rank the lowest of the Races at number 8. Their appearance is cool enough, but there are other races that can do the Au Ra's job better.
#7: The Viera Race
Don't let those adorable ears fool you because these bunny-like Viera people are ready to rumble.
Who'd have thought that noble forest creatures could collide with (appropriate enough) fanservice for a loveable, unique race? The bunny men and women of the Viera Race are a unique population from how Final Fantasy XIV introduced them. The women of the Viera Race were released during the Shadowbringer DLC expansion, while the Endwalker expansion introduced the Viera male population.
Hailing from the wild forest regions of the world, the Viera people are a cunning race, with in-game lore serving as the reason why no males were included in the game until Endwalker came out. According to the lore, the males make up only 20% of the Viera population, showcasing why the women were out first. Among the Viera race lies two clans: the Rava and the Veena.
The Veena Clan has generally higher Vitality, Intelligence, and Mind stats compared to their brethren, while the Rava carry an impressive Dexterity value. A member of the Veena Clan has dark fur and warmer skin tones, while the Rava run around with bright fur and sport lighter skin tones. Both Clans are easily recognized by their long, prominent bunny ears.
The Veena Clan:
- Strength - 19
- Dexterity - 20
- Vitality - 19
- Intelligence - 23
- Mind - 22
The Rava Clan:
- Strength - 20
- Dexterity - 23
- Vitality - 18
- Intelligence - 21
- Mind - 21
The Viera Race excels in:
- Having a general stat setup for Physical Ranged Jobs.
- Contributing nicely as a Magical Caster Job.
- Wearing unique armor sets adored by players.
You should pick the Viera Race if:
- You want to build a decent Machinist Job, given the Rava Clan's Dexterity and Intelligence.
- You wish to have a popular character model.
- You desire to be a powerful Summoner with the Veena Clan's high Intelligence stat.
- (Note: You'll need the Shadowbringers expansion to unlock the female Viera and Endwalker for the males.)
Overall, this race is listed at number 7. The popularity of the race is high, but its stat numbers could be higher among other races.
#6: The Lalafell Race
A deadly race combining cuteness and efficiency, make way for the minuscule Lalafell people.
Good things come in small packages, but no one ever specified they could be this cute (or deadly). Don't underestimate the little population of the Lalafell, for these cutie patooties can hold their own in battle against the monstrosities found in Eorzea. This race is one of the five original playable races when Final Fantasy XIV first launched.
These little guys come from foreign lands that found their way to Eorzea via trading routes. While a majority of Lalafell make a living as farmers, a few forged their way as merchants, with some being responsible for founding the merchant city of Ul'dah. The two Clans of the Lalafell are the Plainsfolk and Dunesfolk.
The Plainsfolk are relatively similar to the Dunesfolk in terms of stats, with both clans holding the same Strength and Intelligence values. The Lalafell people are short, with long ears and childlike appearances that make it hard to define the age or even gender of a Lalafell until maturity. The Plainsfolk have a lighter tone with a carefree demeanor, while the Dunesfolk are generally tan with a business mindset.
The Plainsfolk Clan:
- Strength - 19
- Dexterity - 23
- Vitality - 19
- Intelligence - 22
- Mind - 20
The Dunesfolk Clan:
- Strength - 19
- Dexterity - 21
- Vitality - 18
- Intelligence - 22
- Mind - 23
The Lalafell Race excels in:
- Having similar stats among the two clans for near equal attributes.
- Their Dexterity and Mind values have Lalafell players lean towards Ranged or Caster Jobs.
- A smaller frame makes them harder to see/ keep track of in PvP.
You should pick the Lalafell Race if:
- You want to have a decent Red Mage build as a Dunesfolk for their high Intelligence and Mind stats.
- You wouldn't mind being a decent Physical Ranged Job as a Plainsfolk for their high Dexterity value.
- You wish to be adored by others for your little stature.
- You have the base game version of Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn (No DLC required).
Overall, this race ranks up at number 6. While the Lalafell people do not fall short as a Caster or Ranged Job, there are still other races that can further raise one's proficiency with stats.
#5: The Elezen Race
A wise Elezen enjoying the sights of Eorzea as if it won't come crashing down with another disastrous Umbral Era.
Every kind of fantasy-based story needs a high society of elf creatures, and the Elezen Race humbly steps up to that role in Final Fantasy XIV. Once the proud rulers of Eorzea, the Elezen people have since rivaled the other races with a mutual relationship for control of the land. This is another race of the original five races available at launch.
The Elezen race is a proud nationality throughout Eorzea, who maintain a strong presence in cities like Ishgard and Gridiania, while others roam the forestland in woodland caverns. The Wildwood and Duskwight Clans make up the Elezen race in Eorzea. Fun fact: it’s the Wildwood clan that actually lives in the cities while the Duskwights prefer the forests.
The Duskwight Clan is superior to their city-bound cousins with remarkable Intelligence, while the Wildwood Clan bask in their Dexterity prowess. Both clans are tall and have lanky figures with pointy ears that help define their characteristics when their impressive height doesn't cut it. Wildwoods have a natural tan palette compared to their pale Duskwight brethren.
The Wildwood Clan:
- Strength - 20
- Dexterity - 23
- Vitality - 19
- Intelligence - 22
- Mind - 19
The Duskwight Clan:
- Strength - 20
- Dexterity - 20
- Vitality - 19
- Intelligence - 23
- Mind - 21
The Elezen Race excels in:
- Having the highest Intelligence average among the other races.
- Boasting a fair Dexterity trait.
- Being one of the tallest races around.
You should pick the Elezen Race if:
- You want to build the best possible Black Mage build due to Duskwight's Intelligence.
- You'd like to be a good Physical Ranged Job user with Wildwood's Dexterity value.
- You desire to be the tallest member of your party.
- You have the base game version of Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn (No DLC required).
Overall, this race rests at number 5 on the list. The Intelligence of Duskwights carry huge potential as a Black Mage for high DPS values, but other races can be better at their Ranged Job.
#4: The Roegadyn Race
Surprisingly well-kept and sociable compared to other large beings with tenacious bloodlust.
Ever wanted to look like an absolute unit when you walk into a pub? Do the appearance of broad muscles and a barbaric nature fuel your fantasy? Introducing the powerhouse race of Final Fantasy XIV, the Roegadyn people, another original race from launch.
The Roegadyn are a small band of orcish people coming overseas from a lineage of vicious pirates and eccentric traders. Their hulking build sets them apart from the other races of Eorzea, and while they're ogres on the battlefield, they're quite gentle in society. Roegadyn are split between two clans: the Sea Wolves and the Hellsguard.
Both types of Roegadyn are relatively similar through their stats, with their highest trait being Vitality. Sea Wolves are rugged sailors with bluish skins and a sturdy frame. Their cousins, the Hellsguard, boast the same musculature and have a reddish hue among their kind.
The Sea Wolves Clan:
- Strength - 22
- Dexterity - 19
- Vitality - 23
- Intelligence - 18
- Mind - 21
The Hellsguard Clan:
- Strength - 20
- Dexterity - 18
- Vitality - 23
- Intelligence - 20
- Mind - 22
The Roegadyn Race excels in:
- Possessing the best Vitality average among the other races.
- Being a key choice as a Tank Job user due to stats and appearance.
- Having the most muscular frame available.
You should pick the Roegadyn Race if:
- You want to have a great Paladin Job build due to the Hellsguard's high Vitality and Mind values to take damage and grant buffs.
- You wish to have a strong Dark Knight built with the Sea Wolves' high Vitality and Strength to take and deal great damage.
- You'd like to be the bulkiest character among your party members.
- You have the base game version of Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn (No DLC required).
Overall, the Roegadyn race sits at number 4 on the list. This is where the various races begin to show their potential through different stat numbers. The Roegadyn race is by far the best choice for a Tank Job user.
#3: The Miqo'te Race
Because it's not quite a fantasy game without one humanoid cat.
Everyone loves a cute cat girl/ boy every now and then, and Final Fantasy XIV serves up one hell of a combo with stats and appearances to match with the Miqo'te Race. As one of the most popular races available, the Miqo'te does not disappoint through their combat and social constructs. These cool cats are no strangers to the dangers of Eorzea.
The Miqo'te came through the realm of Eorzea during the time of the Fifth Umbral Era in the Age of Endless Frost, a period when all the land was touched with ice and snow. This race is split between two clans, these being the Seekers of the Sun and the Keepers of the Moon. The Seekers bask in the sunlight of their goddess, Azeyama the Warden; while the Keepers embrace the night in the name of their deity, Menphina the Lover.
The Seekers of the Sun generally have higher stats than their Moon brethren, with Dexterity being the highest value between the two clans. Seekers live among society in places like Limsa Lominisa, while the Keepers keep to themselves in the woodlands of the Black Shroud and occasionally visit the city of Gridania. Apart from different shades of skin between the two clans (Seekers usually tan while Keepers are paler), both groups have remarkable cat ears and tails that are distinguishable from afar.
The Seekers of the Sun Clan:
- Strength - 22
- Dexterity - 23
- Vitality - 20
- Intelligence - 19
- Mind - 19
The Keepers of the Moon Clan:
- Strength - 19
- Dexterity - 22
- Vitality - 18
- Intelligence - 21
- Mind - 23
The Miqo'te Race excels in:
- Possessing the highest Dexterity average among the other races.
- Notably high Mind and Strength values between both clans.
- Sporting a unique appearance with cute ears and tail combo.
You should pick the Miqo'te Race if:
- You want to have the best possible Bard build due to the Keeper's high Dexterity, Intelligence, and Mind stat; perfect for ranged attacks and granting buffs.
- You desire to have a great Ninja build due to the Seeker's high Strength and Dexterity stats, which are perfect for the Ninja's flexible role between melee and ranged attacks.
- You want a popular character model (higher than the Viera race).
- You have the base game version of Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn (No DLC required).
Overall, this race is the 3rd highest rank for stats. The Miqo'te are popular among players for their appearance, and their stats with Dexterity make them the best possible race for Physical Ranged Jobs.
#2: The Hyur Race:
An adaptable race of humans that fight for peace in the mythical realm of Eorzea.
There's nothing like the original, that is when it comes to the closest resemblance we have to ourselves in video games: humans! The Hyur Race best describes how we would act/look in the world of Final Fantasy XIV. What sets us apart from the Hyur is their indomitable Strength and power to wield magic with impressive stats.
As one of the most populated races in Eorzea, the Hyur people sprawl all around the world in various cities and towns. Their culture is unique to the land, not the people as a whole, so many different beliefs and traditions vary between them. The two clans that hold the Hyur race together are the Midlanders and Highlanders.
The Highlander Clan is superior in stats to their Midlander counterparts, with both sides exhibiting great Strength and Vitality values. Midlanders are located in almost every civilization point available, while the Highlanders stay in remote areas near mountains and caverns. Both clans have various looks in terms of hair and skin tones with no standard appearance; however, most Hyurs are of average build and height compared to other races.
The Midlander Clan:
- Strength - 22
- Dexterity - 19
- Vitality - 22
- Intelligence - 23
- Mind - 19
The Highlander Clan:
- Strength - 23
- Dexterity - 20
- Vitality - 22
- Intelligence -18
- Mind - 20
The Hyur Race excels in:
- Having equal stats with a high average for an all-around type build for many classes.
- Coming in second for the highest Strength average among the other races.
- Possessing the closest resemblance to modern humans.
You should pick the Hyur Race if:
- You want to have the best possible Samurai build due to the Highlanders' Strength and Vitality stats, a fitting role for a Job focused on high Melee DPS.
- You'd like to test out a decent candidate for Caster Jobs with the Midlander's impressive Intelligence value.
- You desire to role-play as a race that best resembles humans in our reality (perfect for self-insert stories/playthroughs).
- You have the base game version of Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn (No DLC required).
Overall, the Hyur are the 2nd best race for stats alone. Their race is diverse in appearance, allowing for many customization options for players and available to anyone without DLC expansions.
#1: The Hrothgar Race:
A trio of the deadliest race to exist in Eorzea, the mighty Hrothgars of the Helions (left and center) and The Lost (right) clans.
The term "ferocious feline" doesn't even begin to describe the tenacity of these barbaric people. Boasting more cat-like appearances than the Miqo'te, the Hrothgar Race trades in the cutesy look of their cousins for the frame of a burly lion. The Hrothgars are the dominant race in Final Fantasy XIV with the highest average of Strength, Mind, and Vitality values across all the other races.
Introduced in the Shadowbringers DLC expansion, the Hrothgar population originates from the continent of Ilsabard, located northeast of Eorzea. Between the Hrothgar people lies two clans: Helions and The Lost. The Helions have a background as supporters of a matriarch system, devoting their lives to their queen; while The Lost believe in freedom and live as a nomadic tribe while undertaking any professions they can learn.
The Hrothgars are the only race in Final Fantasy XIV where both clans are exactly equal to each other. Both clans possess the highest average of Strength, Mind, and Vitality stats, meaning you could pick either one to get the same results. The Hrothgar people resemble huge, humanoid lions, with the Helions sporting warm-colored fur while their Lost brethren have coats that resemble the icy winter.
The Helion Clan:
- Strength - 23
- Dexterity - 17
- Vitality - 23
- Intelligence - 17
- Mind - 23
The Lost Clan:
- Strength - 23
- Dexterity - 17
- Vitality - 23
- Intelligence - 17
- Mind - 23
The Hrothgar Race excels in:
- Having the best Strength, Vitality, and Mind average across all the other races.
- Both clans have equal stats compared to one another.
- The best representation of humanoid beasts in the game.
You should pick the Hrothgar Race if:
- You desire to build the best possible Monk Job. The Hrothgar race is perfect for a Monk build with their Strength and Mind values for high DPS and granting buffs.
- You want to experiment with a great candidate for a Tank Job. The Strength and Vitality of the Hrothgar people are great for dealing and taking large damage.
- You'd like to appear as a burly lion character that's built for carnage (even more so than a Roegadyn).
- (Note: You'll need the Shadowbringers expansion to unlock the Hrothgars.)
Overall, the Hrothgars are the top #1 race to pick based on stats. Having three stats at 23 is a great way to kickstart a Melee DPS or Tank Job. It would be wise to purchase the Shadowbringers DLC expansion to unlock this race and for the many different quests, dungeons, and access to the Gunbreaker Job.
In conclusion, this list of the top races should only be taken into a meta/strategical view. You don't necessarily have to follow this list by the book if it's not the race you truly want to immerse yourself with.
One of the best qualities of Final Fantasy XIV is its role-playing factor (hence why it's an MMORPG title in the first place). You can pick any race to fulfill any job/dream in this game that could win in higher-leveled instances.
A Roegadyn could play as a Bard, an Elezen can be a Dancer, hell, even a tiny Lalafell could be a Paladin. So long as you level up properly and have fun, you can conquer the evils of Eorzea and beyond with any race you want. With a strong will to fight (and time to grind), anyone can be a hero in Final Fantasy XIV.
