Races of Final Fantasy

This is a list of the particularly intelligent races found in the Final Fantasy series of role-playing games. Final Fantasy monsters are covered in Monsters of Final Fantasy.

Recurring Races

Dwarf

See also: Dwarf

Dwarves (Final Fantasy IX - PS)

Dwarves (Final Fantasy IX - PS)

Dwarves are a race of short humanoid creatures originating from Norse mythology, that appear frequently in high fantasy (most notably the works of J. R. R. Tolkien), and role-playing games. Dwarves are much like humans, but generally living underground or in mountainous areas. The dwarves debut in the Final Fantasy series in Final Fantasy, where they provide a waterway for the Light Warriors' ship. Later in the game, a dwarven smith forges the legendary sword Excalibur (based on the Arthurian legendary sword) from the metal adamantium.

Final Fantasy III and Final Fantasy IV both contain a dwarf civilization. In the latter game, the dwarves are the residents and rulers of the Underworld. Led by King Giott, these Dwarves help Cid Pollendina modify the party's airships on multiple occasions. In Final Fantasy V, a small community of dwarves makes an appearance, trapped in a submarine cavern. Dwarves do not appear again until Final Fantasy IX, where they appear as inhabitants of the village of Conde Petie on the Outer Continent.

Dwarves are often heard calling out "lali-ho" as a form of greeting. Other variations include "rally-ho" and "tally-ho". The greeting of "lali-ho" is reused following the release of the Game Boy Advance version of Final Fantasy IV. Also, the dwarves of Tomra in the forementioned game, say "howdy-ho" instead of "lali-ho".

Human

Humans or Humes of Final Fantasy XII

Humans or Humes of Final Fantasy XII

See also: Human

Humans (or otherwise known as humes) appear in all the games of the Final Fantasy series except in Crystal Chronicles (although Clavats resemble them slightly). They are often portrayed as the lead playable character, among others. After Final Fantasy V, the only game in which Humans are the only playable race is Final Fantasy VIII . In the game series, Humans are known as a Jack-of-all-Trades. They do not have any overwhelming skill in magic or in fighting, but are suited to fit into whatever role they are needed in. Humans are usually the most versatile races in the Final Fantasy series. Their jobs can range from fighter to cleric to mage.

Like most humans in fantasy fiction, they are described as an ethnically and politically diverse species. There are typically several Human kingdoms or nations whereas there may be only one for each of the other fantasy races. Humans also tend to be the most populous race and typically are in control of many of the major political entities.

A race of human-like Summoners appeared in Final Fantasy IV and Final Fantasy IX. In other Final Fantasy series, they usually appear as a job class or as a person with the unique ability to summon beasts such as Yuna in Final Fantasy X. In Final Fantasy IX, they appear like other humans, but with an additional horn on their forehead. In the story, only two summoners remain as the others have been exterminated due to the Terran warship Invincible's invasion on their homeland of Madain Sari. Summoners can also be found in Final Fantasy IV, in which Cecil and Kain delivered a Package (Bomb Ring in later remakes) to Mist, the village of summoners, destroying it. This results in the meeting of Rydia, one of the summoners, and one of the final five party members (the others being Cecil, Rosa, Kain, and Edge). The village can be revisited later, with a few people remaining, presumably also summoners. It is noted that most summoners in terms of race seem able to access other magic as well, as Rydia has Black Magic, and Garnet and Eiko both have White Magic.

Moogle

Classic Moogle appearance as in Final Fantasy XI

Classic Moogle appearance as in Final Fantasy XI

Moogles (モーグリ, Mōguri)　are little creatures that appear throughout several Square Enix game series, including the Final Fantasy series, the Seiken Densetsu series, the Chocobo game series, and the Kingdom Hearts series. Moogles are called "Moguri" in the Japanese version games, a portmanteau of the Japanese words mogura (mole) and komori (bat).

Moogles have small eyes and red, pink, or purple bat-like wings. A single black antenna sticks up from their heads, with a small colorful ball (usually red or yellow) at the end called a "pompom". Their ears are usually shaped like a cat's and their fur are white or light pink; however, they have longer, rabbit-like ears and tend to have more beige or gray fur in Final Fantasy Tactics Advance and Final Fantasy XII. When they first appeared, in Final Fantasy III, Moogles generally ended their sentences with the word "nya", the Japanese equivalent of a cat's "meow". In the later games, they use the word "kupo" instead; some games briefly mention a Moogle language formed out of various permutations of "kupo". In the Final Fantasy III Nintendo DS remake, the word "nya" was replaced with "kupo".

Moogles run an in-game message delivery service in Final Fantasy IX and Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles. In the Final Fantasy III remake, the Moogles' message delivery service allows to send real e-mails using the Nintendo DS Wi-Fi function. In Final Fantasy XI, a Moogle is assigned to each player to take care of their house and change their jobs. In Final Fantasy XII, the Moogles are known to be skillful in mechanics and engineering; they were the first pioneers of airship construction.

Several Moogle characters of the Final Fantasy series are named Mog, including a playable character in Final Fantasy VI, a character from an arcade game in Final Fantasy VII, a form of the Eidolon Madeen in Final Fantasy IX, and the single player's companion in Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles. In the spin-offs Chokobo no Fushigina Danjon, Chocobo's Dungeon 2, and Chocobo Racing, a Moogle named Mog is friend with the main character Chocobo. Moogles appear as summoned creatures in Final Fantasy VII where a Moogle appears riding a Chocobo, in Final Fantasy VIII with a young Moogle called MiniMog, and in Final Fantasy Tactics. Another recurring moogle is Stiltzkin of whom appears in both Final Fantasy IX and Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles.

Moogles make an appearance in the Final Fantasy series in Final Fantasy III and all subsequent numbered installments except Final Fantasy IV, in addition to Final Fantasy Tactics, Final Fantasy Tactics Advance, Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles, and Final Fantasy: Unlimited. Moogles appear only as stuffed dolls in Final Fantasy X, Final Fantasy X-2, Final Fantasy VII Advent Children and Dirge of Cerberus: Final Fantasy VII. Moogles make an appearance in the Seiken Densetsu series as a race and/or as a status condition in Final Fantasy Adventure, Secret of Mana, and Seiken Densetsu 3, and are mentioned in Sword of Mana. They make an appearance in the Chocobo series in Chocobo's Mysterious Dungeon, Chocobo's Dungeon 2, Chocobo Racing, and Chocobo Land: A Game of Dice. They also appear in the three games of the Kingdom Hearts series. Finally, a Moogle appears in Egg Monster Heroes, while one is an unlockable character in Mario Hoops 3-on-3. Moogles have also appeared as characters in some webcomics, such as Ren from Mac Hall. In the webcomic Exploitation Now there is a character named Ralph who is known as "a walking copyright infringement waiting to happen" and appears very similar to a moogle. Also in the Flash-animated series, International Moron Patrol, a moogle named Kulock appears.

Non-recurring Races

Final Fantasy I

Elves appear as residents of Elfheim. They are distincted by their pointy ears and a different skin tone than common humans. This has lead to conclusions that the sprite for the job Thief is an elf too. There is also a renegade Dark Elf named Astos, who cursed the elven prince.

The Lufenians/Lefeinish are a race in Final Fantasy. They are living in Lufenia/Lefein. Cid is mentioned in the Final Fantasy Origins and Final Fantasy I & II: Dawn of Souls version of the game as being the Lufenian responsible for making the airship.

Appearing only in Final Fantasy I, Mermaids fit the description of stereotypical Mermaids. They live in the submerged temple of water, along with Kraken. They don't actually play any major roles, though it is hinted at that certain spells can transform mermaids into human women.

Final Fantasy III

In Final Fantasy III, ages before the game took place, the Ancients built an advanced civilization and began using the crystals to manipulate the power of Light. However, this led to the crisis known as the Flood of Light, in which the Light began to destroy the world due to the fact that it was too strong a power for the Ancients to wield. Four warriors from the World of Darkness then appeared to stop the overflow of Light. However, the Flood of Light led to the deaths of most of the Ancients, and the remaining few settled in a town in the Floating Continent (which they had created) called Ancient's Village. The party member Desch is an Ancient who guards the Tower of Owen, which keeps the Floating Continent in the air. The Ancients of Final Fantasy III are not the same as the Ancients (Cetra) of Final Fantasy VII.

Gulgans are sightless sages that foretell the future in Final Fantasy III. They are central characters in the unfolding of the story.

Earth (Final Fantasy IV)

The Hummingway are a race from the Moon in Final Fantasy IV. Their appearance is characterized by blue and yellow clothing with turbans on their heads, however, some appear in pink and white. Most of them only speak in humming noises. One notable Hummingway is named Namingway, and appears in most towns offering to change the names of the characters who talk to him. In Final Fantasy IX, you can find the Namingway card on Disc 3 in Kuja's castle, or win it from Mario in the card arena. It allows you to rename your characters.

The Lunarians are a race of human-like wizards in Final Fantasy IV. They came from the planet between Mars and Jupiter, which was destroyed and became the asteroid belt. Sometimes, they are identified by a moon-shape crest on their foreheads. They created Earth's second moon, where they sleep until they believe the time is right for Earthlings and Lunarians to co-exist in harmony. The only known full-blood Lunarians are FuSoYa - the guardian of the Lunarians, Zemus - a restless Lunarian who plans on destroying life on Earth, and KluYa - believed to be the first Lunarian to interact with humans. In fact, KluYa fell in love with an Earthling, and had two sons with her: Cecil, the main character of the game, and Golbez, the villain controlled by Zemus.

Final Fantasy V

The Kelb appear in Final Fantasy V as a race of anthropomorphic wolves living in Quelb. Kelb is the Arabic word for "dog." They are well-known for their culinary abilities. If anyone goes to the nearby Valley of Dragons, a ceremony consisting of three Kelb in a line running around in circles is performed in the hopes that the adventurers will return safely. Early on in the game, a Kelb (known to the citizens of Karnak as Werewolf) arrives by meteor on Bartz's world to look for Galuf. In the dungeon of Walz Castle, there is a Kelb pickpocket named Lone Wolf. Final Fantasy VI also has a Lone Wolf, the pickpocket; while he appears as an anthropomorphic wolf, he is not stated to be a Kelb.

Final Fantasy VI

The Espers, appearing in Final Fantasy VI, are creatures of many shapes, sizes, and abilities. Long ago, Espers were humans, until they were transformed by the magical residue caused by three warring Goddesses, and then used as weapons in the war. After the war, Espers, along with regular humans known as Magi, who had gained magical powers through unstated means, were hunted down as animals by regular humans. The Magi survivors fled to a small island and built a small town secluded from the rest of the world. The Espers created their own world, the entrance to which was hidden deep within a dangerous cave. They lived there alone, until a young human woman stumbled in upon it. She and the esper Maduin fell in love, and she remained among the Espers, bearing Maduin's daughter, Terra. Shortly after Terra's birth, Emperor Gestahl and his army marched upon the Esper World. They were after the Espers to power their war machines, which in turn they would use to aid their conquering of the world. They managed to capture many Espers before the Elder sacrificed his life to rid the Esper World of humans and seal the entrance behind a giant gate. However, this also expelled Terra and her mother, and, in attempting to save them, Maduin as well. The young woman was murdered at the hands of Gestahl, Terra taken to be a half-Esper weapon, and Maduin to join the rest of the Espers. They placed the Espers into large machines, and while they were still alive and breathing, drained their abilities through complex machinery to power their MagiTech technology, and imbued some minor abilities into select soldiers. It was later found that their methods were imprecise, and that Esper powers could be drained in full only after death, when they became magical stones known as Magicite. As Magicite, one only has to be in extended contact to the stone to gain their abilities, and could be done repeatedly to other humans.

The Kappa derives its name from a monster of Japanese myth. The Kappa only appears in Final Fantasy VI, and is referred to in the English localization as an "imp." A kappa delivers several gameplay tutorials within Final Fantasy VI, most notably explaining the special "Rage"/"Leap" battle command used by the player character Gau. "Kappa" is also a largely negative status effect that can be inflicted upon both party members and enemies: Those affected are transformed into a kappa, and are unable to use any special commands or magic, except for the spell that can turn them back. Also, their attacks are generally weak. However, there are two special pieces of equipment (a lance and armor) that can be worn by characters when in kappa state that are among the strongest available in the game.

Gaia (Final Fantasy VII)

Nanaki (AKA Red XIII) from Final Fantasy VII is one of the last members of an unnamed race, consisting of intelligent feline-like beasts with a lifespan of over 500 years. They seem to all have pure red fur and a flame on the end of their tail, traits shared by all known examples of the species as seen in Final Fantasy VII, Advent Children and Before Crisis. At least three were known to have lived in Cosmo Canyon: Nanaki, Seto (Nanaki's father), and Nanaki's mother who is unnamed. However Seto and Nanaki's mother were both killed when the Gi tribe attacked. Nanaki found a female of the species, Dinne, in Before Crisis ; he is also shown with cubs in the Final Fantasy VII closing FMV.

Cetra (Final Fantasy VII)

The Cetra (セトラ, Setora) known as the Ancients (古代種, Kodai-shu) are mentioned frequently in Final Fantasy VII, although few Ancients are actually depicted in the game. Those depicted are Ifalna, her daughter, Aerith Gainsborough, and the spiritual manifestation of a third Cetra within the Temple of the Ancients. They look identical to regular humans, but possess a unique ability to commune with the planet and to guide the flow of its spiritual energy. The Cetra originally migrated from place to place, using their connection with the planet to cultivate life wherever they traveled, and ultimately find their fabled Promised Land. All ordinary humans can trace their origins to the Cetra, having ceased to become Ancients when they gave up their migratory life-style and link to the planet in favor of permanent settlements and a more relaxed way of living. Those Cetra who retained their connection with the planet were reduced to near extinction by the arrival of the extraterrestrial entity Jenova, some two millennia before the events of Final Fantasy VII. Jenova, which crash-landed on the Planet encased within a meteorite, unleashed a form of virus upon the Cetra, causing them to go mad. The few Cetra who escaped banded together and managed to defeat Jenova, which they sealed underground in the area where it first landed, the Northern Crater. It would later be unearthed by Shinra scientist Professor Gast, who would mistakenly identify it as a lost Cetra. Many of those who played Final Fantasy VII incorrectly believed that the Cetra are actually an alien race which migrates from planet to planet. This is attributed to a mistranslation, in which the term 'land' was translated as 'planet'. In actuality, the game's script states that the Cetra were native to the Planet, and that -- upon death -- they will return to the Promised Land. This is an allusion to the return to the Lifestream, it being the Promised Land of the Cetra. This concept is confirmed by the Maiden Who Travels the Planet novella in the Final Fantasy VII Ultimania Ω Guide. The Cetra of Final Fantasy VII are not the same as the extinct Centra race of Final Fantasy VIII.

Shumi (Final Fantasy VIII)

NORG, a member of the Shumi

NORG, a member of the Shumi

The Shumi race consists of short, stout yellow-skinned creatures from Final Fantasy VIII. A meek, community-oriented people, they make their home in the Trabia Mountains. NORG, proprietor of Balamb Garden, is an outcast Shumi, and exceedingly unfriendly and antagonistic compared to the others of his race. He is also distinguished from other Shumi by his fondness for showing off his large, long-fingered hands. The Shumi take great pride in their hands and generally refrain from showing them to strangers; therefore, NORG's display would be considered extremely arrogant and uncouth in traditional Shumi culture. When the Shumi reach the peak of their evolution, they morph, some of them becoming a Moomba.

Moombas are furry little red creatures that are actually evolved members of the Shumi Tribe: those who do not wish, or are not able, to become a leader. In Final Fantasy VIII, Laguna took a liking to them and tried to teach them to talk, but all they could ever say was "Laguna!" They are significantly more intelligent than they look. Shumis count the Moombas as the pinnacle of evolution. Moombas have been noted to be able to remember someone by the taste of their blood, and are implied to even be able to recognize genetic characteristics in someone's bloodstream.

Moombas have been seen outside of Shumi villiages, but they have never been noted to be in these locations willingly. When Laguna Loire was taken prisoner in Esthar, he briefly was a member of a work crew that included a Moomba prisoner. At the time of Final Fantasy VIII's main storyline, a number of Moombas were in use by the Galbadian military as workers in the D District Prison complex, where they were notably mistreated. Squall encountered these Moombas, who apparently had known Laguna, as they repeatedly called his name while they assisted Squall during his recovery and escape.

A Moomba also appears in the Final Fantasy VIII sub-game, Chocobo World, to help find weapons for Boko. In the game Chocobo Racing, a Moomba appears as an unlockable character under the name "Mumba." They also appear in Final Fantasy X as dolls held by Lulu, which she uses to attack physically in battle, and in Final Fantasy X-2 as a doll held by Yuna's Mascot (Moogle) Dressphere.

Gaia and Terra (Final Fantasy IX)

The Burmecians appear in Final Fantasy IX, where they are depicted as anthropomorphic rats who live in Burmecia and Cleyra. Freya Crescent is a Burmecian. The Cleyrans live in a giant tree in the desert, which is protected by a sandstorm that has raged for a millennium; the Cleyrans split from the Burmecians when the latter started to appreciate "the art of war" and have had no contact with Burmecia in over a century. One notable facet about their culture is their value of dance. In Japan, they are known as Nezumi (Japanese for "rat").

Genomes are bodies created by the Terrans of Final Fantasy IX. They do have minds, but their souls are not their own and are only weakly bound to them. They exist to wait for when Terra takes over Gaia, and then the Terran souls will enter the Genome bodies. Garland, the caretaker of Terra, gave souls to three Genomes to speed up the takeover process: Kuja, Zidane, and Mikoto.

The Qu are a race of large, clownish, seemingly androgynous humanoids from Final Fantasy IX, the race to which the playable character Quina Quen belongs. They have a long tongue and are recognized as fine gourmands. They tend to have a simpler intellect compared to the common people, often speaking without verbs or true syntax and often thinking only about food. They inhabit marshlands throughout the world where they catch their main source of nutrition, frogs. Throughout Final Fantasy IX, the Qu are used mainly as comic relief, and never actually have much to do with the main storyline. In Final Fantasy VII, a monster similar to the Qu (called Hungry in the North American release) appears in the City of the Ancients. Its main attack is to shrink enemies and then eat them. The name "Qu" is a transliteration of the Japanese verb 喰う (Kuu) which means "to eat". The verb's Kanji (喰) is written in Seal Script on the upper-right side of Quale's house, where you first meat Quina.

Spira (Final Fantasy X, X-2)

The Al Bhed appear in Final Fantasy X and its sequel, Final Fantasy X-2. Al Bhed differ biologically from humans in their bright green eyes with spiral-patterned irises. As a result, they often wear goggles so they can walk among Yevonites. The Al Bhed also possess their own language. Although it seems at first to be a true foreign language, it is actually a substitution cipher and can be translated here. The Al Bhed are also the only group in Spira who openly oppose the teachings of Yevon, specifically the ban on machina and the use of the Final Summoning. For these reasons, they are often ostracized by the Yevonite majority. Despite this persecution, some Al Bhed have still managed to find acceptance, most notably Rin, who operates a chain of travel agencies throughout the world of Spira. They are also allowed to participate in the Yevon-sponsored blitzball tournaments. Rikku is an Al Bhed, and Yuna is part Al Bhed on her mother's side.

The Guado are an arboreal humanoid race inhabiting Spira. They are set apart by their long limbs and fingers, pale skin, veins visible on the temples and forehead, and wild, tangled hair. Their hair ranges in color from more normal browns, blonds, and greys to vivid greens, and blues. They are the keepers of the entryway to the Farplane, where the dead are sent. The Guado possess the unique ability to "smell the deceased". The Guado were converted to Yevon by their leader, Jyscal Guado (later appointed a Maester of Yevon), but were ironically led down the path of ruin by Lord Jyscal's own son, the megalomaniacal Seymour Guado. After Sin was destroyed, the Guado, despised by the rest of Spira for their allegiance to Seymour, abandoned their ancestral city of Guadosalam and took up residence in the dying forest of Macalania. Guado can breed with humans; Seymour was, himself, half-human, an effort on Jyscal's part to foster friendship between Humans and the Guado.

The Hypello are a docile, amphibious race in Final Fantasy X and Final Fantasy X-2. They have blue skin and a characteristic manner of speaking which makes most of their speech sound slurred. The Hypello live primarily in and around the area of the Moonflow. Though extremely quick and agile swimmers, they are curiously the only race in Spira that does not participate in blitzball tournaments, as their "lackadaisical disposition draws them to less strenuous pastimes", or, put more simply, because of their laid-back nature. Many other people find it hard to tell Hypello apart, male and female. The male Hypello are all voiced by John DeMita.

The Ronso are a race of blue furred lion-like humanoids who live on Mt. Gagazet, which they consider sacred and guard fiercely. Ronso are formidable warriors, being very tall and amazingly strong, and are known for their strong sense of honor and loyalty, as well as their pride and quickness to anger. The long, sharp horn sported by all adult male Ronso is a symbol of esteem and a source of great pride to the wearer, and to lose this horn is considered extremely shameful. Kimahri Ronso, one of Yuna's guardians in Final Fantasy X, is something of an outsider among his people, being of comparatively small stature and having previously lost his horn in a fight with one of his peers. Near the end of Final Fantasy X, Seymour Guado ravaged through Mt. Gagazet and killed all in his path in pursuit of Yuna. He killed many Ronso in his ascent up the slope, including Maester Kelk Ronso (the current elder) as well as Biran and Yenke Ronso (Kimahri's long-time rivals). After the start of the Eternal Calm, Kimahri returned to Gagazet to help rebuild his home and restore his people's honor. He was named elder of the tribe by his kinsmen, and has been on Gagazet ever since. But the events of Seymour's destruction cause sparks of hatred and plans of revenge among the recovering Ronso tribe. Filled with hatred for the slaughter of their people, the Ronso youth despised the Guado, whom they felt were responsible for supporting Seymour as their leader.

Vana'diel (Final Fantasy XI)

The Elvaan (エルヴァーン, Eruvān) are a fictional humanoid race inhabiting Vana'diel, the world of Final Fantasy XI. A race of proud warriors, they are the founders of two legendary orders of knights in the nation of San d'Oria. Their design is much like the elves from the works of J. R. R. Tolkien. However, in contrast to the Tolkien-esque Elf mages and sorcerers of many other fantasy-themed MMORPGs, the Elvaan of Final Fantasy XI are almost exclusively martial warriors, having almost no natural aptitude for black magic. The Elvaan have great swordsmanship and are potent healers, though low on magic points and accuracy. Most Elvaan seem to eschew the business world, preferring a wandering life as itinerant swordsmen. The Elvaan were the first to use chocobos, farming and harvesting with them until the other races started to put saddles on them and use them for means of transportation.

The Galka (ガルカ, Garuka) are a fictional humanoid race inhabiting Vana'diel, the world of Final Fantasy XI. Their capital city, located in the Altepa desert of Zepwell Island in the southwest corner of the Quon continent, fell to an attack from the Antica six centuries ago. The surviving Galka spread throughout Vana'diel, and a large number of them eventually settled in Bastok. The sheer strength of their powerful physiques is second to none. They have used their skills to contribute to the construction and development of the numerous mines in Bastok. However, it seems that some Galka have less than fond feelings for members of the Hume race. It would be revealed that the Shadow Lord was once a Galka who transformed into a being that the darkness in his heart reflected. Also, it should be noted that the Galka reproduce through a form of reincarnation, and are all male. They are also the only race of people to have the ability to eat raw meat.

The Kuluu (クルー, Kurū) are an ancient race that existed thousands of years before the present day of Final Fantasy XI. The Kuluu were considered inferior to the Zilart, and were not allowed inside the Zilart capital because they lost the "Whisper of the Soul" to the darkness, known as the Emptiness. This whisper allowed the Zilart to communicate with each other without actually speaking, and resulted in the Kuluu being disregarded and outcast. The Kuluu formed a pact with Bahamut shortly before their age ended, in which they promised to join Bahamut to prevent the spread of a dangerous phenomenon known as "The Emptiness" if it were to ever threaten Vana'diel. However, the lives of the Kuluu were cut short when they attempted to sabotage the Zilart plan to open the gates to Paradise. The explosion resulting from the sabotage killed most of the Kuluu, and transformed the rest into Tonberries. A few Kuluu who wanted the terrestrial avatar Diabolos, the ruler of dreams, to help them asked for his to help free them from the curse of the Emptiness, but the result also ended up transforming them into the Cryptonberries, a close relation of the Tonberries. Only two Kuluu survived this incident intact, however they were unaccounted for until the Chains of Promathia storyline began.

The Mithra (ミスラ, Misura)　are a predominantly female race of hunters who live alongside the Tarutaru in Windurst. They are easily identified by their characteristic ears, which give them spectacular hearing ability, and their long tails, which lend them an excellent sense of balance. They are known for their energy, curiosity, and mischievousness. The Mithra enjoy a friendly relationship with the Tarutaru, and their of mutual cooperation has made Windurst a nation of peace and prosperity. The Mithra are very dexterous and agile. The name of their race is probably derived from that of the Iranian deity Mithra. Mithra society is entirely matriarchal, and male mithra rarely venture outside of their native villages.

The Tarutaru (タルタル, Tarutaru) are a race of skilled mages who call Windurst their home in the world of Vana'diel. Although they resemble children in size, this does not reflect their age. In fact, the Tarutaru do not seem to change their appearance at all as they age. The Tarutaru are said to understand the importance of the balance between natural harmony and magic. Because of this understanding, they have produced some of the greatest mages in the world's history. It was their way of life that fueled the rapid reconstruction of Windurst after its destruction in the same war. The Tarutaru enjoy a friendly relationship with the Mithra, who live in Windurst as well after they were admitted to the nation by the Star Sybil, the ruler of Windurst and moral leader of all Vana'diel. Tarutaru lack the physical strength and durability of their fellow enlightened races as a result of their racial prejudice towards magical study, but do control greater reserves of magical power (MP) as a result, and are the most studious and intelligent of the races of Vana'diel - although not the most wise or spiritual. In the storyline of the game they are often presented as heedless of caution - a trait which many players in Final Fantasy XI note as also applying to Tarutaru player characters. Archetypally, Tarutaru excel at the study of Black Magic and white magic and they excel most well in the ancient art of summoning, although the combination of their vast magical power, precise spellcraft, lack of caution and physical vulnerability has resulted in the death of many such Tarutaru Black Mages. Like any race in Final Fantasy XI, Tarutaru can play any job, as racial disadvantages can be overcome by numerous methods.

The Zilart (ジラート, Jirāto) are an ancient race that existed during the same time period as the Kuluu. They look similar to Humes (Humans) and are exceedingly intelligent. They possessed a trait known as the "whisper of the soul," which appears to be a form of telepathy. An offshoot of the Zilart formed without this trait, known as the Kuluu, and were treated as lesser beings by the Zilart (similar to the Enlightened Ones and the Earthbound from the SNES RPG Chrono Trigger). The Zilart's ultimate plan was to open a gateway to the Paradise of the Gods, using a massive system called the Gate of the Gods. The Gate was to be powered by the energy of Vana'diel's five Mothercrystals, channelled through giant power conduits to a central point at Delkfutt's Tower. They constructed a grand capital city named Tu'Lia, which is levitated into the sky by the channeling of the Mothercrystals' power. Tu'Lia was to be the gate, but at the moment of activation, the Kuluu sabotaged the Gate's power source, resulting in a cataclysmic meltdown that wiped out the land (known later as the Meltdown). In the game's first expansion "Rise of the Zilart", two surviving Zilartian princes are revealed -- the Jeunoan Archduke Kam'lanaut, and his elder brother Eald'narche. Their continued attempts to open the Gate of the Gods is the focus of the Rise of the Zilart storyline. In the game's second expansion Final Fantasy XI: Chains of Promathia, the Zilart are revealed to be alive and well, and a survivor of the Kuluu is also present.

Ivalice (Final Fantasy XII, Revenant Wings, Tactics, Tactics Advance, Tactics Advance 2)

The Aegyl (エグル, Eguru)　are a humanoid race that debut in Final Fantasy XII Revenant Wings, possessing wings that sprout from their backs. These wings count as both a blessing (able to fly in the air) and a curse (resulting in a lifespan of 40 years). The Aegyl dwell in the ruins of Purvama Lemurés. They are a people with no true conflict amongst themselves, but there are a few who tend to go against the will of their people; such as Lluyd.

The Baknamy (バクナムス, Bakunamusu) are a green-skinned humanoid race that looks similar to goblins. Their bodies are relatively small in stature; even as an adult, their height is only the size of a child Hume. After the kingdom of Nabradia ceased to exist, they designated the Necrohol of Nabudis as their stronghold. The Baknamy are sensitive to the air that they breathe, and living in the Necrohol of Nabudis where the air is polluted due to the city's destruction forces them to wear gas masks. The poorer and less fortunate Baknamy commit crimes to earn a living, targeting adventurers and travelers, causing Humes to view them as a despicable race.

Bangaa race art from Final Fantasy Tactics Advance

Bangaa race art from Final Fantasy Tactics Advance

The Bangaa (バンガ, Banga) are a reptilian race appearing in Final Fantasy Tactics Advance and Final Fantasy XII. They are separated into four main sub-branches according to the color of their skin: Bangaa Rugua (yellow-brown), Bangaa Fierce (bronze), Bangaa Bista (reddish-brown), and Bangaa Sanga (ash-colored). These colorations have been associated with their personality and physical abilities; as an example, the Bangaa Ruaga are said to be intelligent and friendly. However, since many Bangaa are of mixed blood, this theory is not applied by the start of Final Fantasy Tactics Advance and Final Fantasy XII. Their level of intelligence is comparable to that of Humes, though they live almost twice as long. Being a very socially and cognitively advanced species, they hate being called "lizards" as this is regarded as an offensive slur. Bangaa in Final Fantasy XII are often considered to be the most integrated of all races into Hume society, and are the race most friendly with the Humes. The character Migelo, who raised Vaan and Penelo, is a Bangaa with blue skin. In addition, Bangaa possess great agility and strength, and acute senses of hearing and smell, making them excellent hunters and fighters. However, their eyesight is so poor that some wear blindfolds as part of their clothing. Their magical abilities, however, are significantly less developed than those of Humes, Nu Mou, and Moogles, due to problems their unique mouth gives them when chanting magic spells. To make up for this, some Bangaa have developed Bangaa-only, exclusive higher-level spells for the race to use. As they are best suited to physical forms of work, Bangaa are usually employed as soldiers or manual laborers and have been relegated to a lower social status than Humes.

The Garif (ガリフ, Garifu)　of Final Fantasy XII are depicted as appreciators of nature. Their size and stature is larger than normal Humes, and their well-built bodies are covered in thick fur. They also have superior olfactory and auditory senses, which make them able hunters. The Garif value the arts of war, but dislike unnecessary violence. Scattered throughout the Bancour Region of Ivalice, the Garif villages are sparsely located. Each village is governed by a council of Elders led by a High Elder. Relations with other races are particularly peaceful, although it is not usual for a member of another race to be in their land. Garif merchants are known to trade with the nomads of Giza Plains and the Dalmascans, exchanging items such as Bancour spices. The Garif prefer to adorn themselves with natural ornaments of animal bones and stones over crafted objects. Some question the Hume usage of machines in their everyday lives. However, the only exception is the crafted masks; each Garif is given a mask to be worn from the day they were born until the end of their lives. The Garif worshipped and kept knowledge of Nethicite; their legends were passed down through generations - in ancient times the Occuria granted them Nethicite, however the Garif's dislike for violence hindered them from utilizing its power, much to the Occuria's disappointment.

The Gria of Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift are a dragon-like race of females with dragon wings, tail and horn. The Gria are more proficient in physical attacks rather than magick, with their flight abilities allowing them to have an advantage in high terrain areas.

The Helgas (ヘルガス, Herugasu) are a long-living race whose intelligence highly surpasses that of Humes. Helgas are tall and thin, and along with white hair, their special features that differentiate them from Humes are their long limbs. The Helgas are able to not only communicate telepathically while asleep, but can also probe into the dreams of others. Gran Kiltias Anastasis is the only Helgas that appeared within Final Fantasy XII.

The Lucavi/Rukavi are a group of demons from Final Fantasy Tactics. They also appear in Final Fantasy XII, where they are called Espers. They are linked to the world through the twelve Zodiac Stones. Any person who holds a Zodiac Stone in his possession may make a contract with the Lucavi demon associated with that Zodiac Stone, and in doing so, become one with that Lucavi. The resulting creature can transform between man and demon at will by using the Zodiac Stone. The primary objective of the Lucavi is resurrect their banished leader Altima, whose presence in Ivalice would allow the Lucavi to exist there without mortal host bodies. Hashmalum, in the form of Vormav Tingel, leads the effort to accomplish this. To resurrect Altima, there must have been a great deal of bloodshed since the time when St. Ajora (Altima's host) died. To accomplish this, they secretly help the Murond Glabados Church (also linked to Ajora) mastermind the Lion War, in hopes that the casualties it creates will be enough to make the difference. In addition, Altima/Ajora needs a new host body, and the only eligible candidate is Alma Beoulve, the sister of the hero Ramza. Finally, the resurrection itself can only take place at Murond Death City, which is only accessible by a hidden gateway. Hashmalum must locate this gateway, but this is not much of a problem since the Glabados High Priest Marge Funeral knows of its location. Also among the Lucavi's goals is the possession of all twelve Zodiac Stones (especially Virgo since this is the stone associated with Altima). In addition, they seek to eliminate Ramza Beoulve, who becomes a threat to their other objectives, especially as he possesses the Germonik Scriptures, which reveal the truth about the Zodiac Braves. Some of the Lucavi reappear as Totema in Final Fantasy Tactics Advance; Adrammelech is based on Adramelk, and Ultima is based on Altima. All of them also appear as Espers in Final Fantasy XII. A subboss in Final Fantasy Tactics Advance, Gukko, becomes a Rukavi before his final encounter with the party, with an appearance similar to that of a vampire-type enemy. This would seem to imply that he is hosting Zalera.

A Nu Mou from Final Fantasy XII - PS2

The Nu Mou (ン・モゥ, N Mou)　are a mix of otter and gorilla-like species from Final Fantasy Tactics Advance and Final Fantasy XII that are talented in the magical fields. In Final Fantasy Tactics Advance they are also known to be able to speak with monsters. Their jobs include Alchemist, Beastmaster, Black Mage, Illusionist, Morpher, Sage, Time Mage, and White Mage. The two most famous Nu Mous are Babus Swain (Rune Seeker) and Ezel Berbier (Hermetic); both of them appeared as optional playable characters in Final Fantasy Tactics Advance. In Final Fantasy XII, the Nu Mou appeared like their counterpart in Final Fantasy Tactics Advance, however they play smaller roles. The Nu Mou's lifespan is described to be three times longer than that of a Hume. They are short and hunched; half the size of an adult Hume, and are more adept in magic. Most of the Nu Mou appear in-game as acolytes of the Kiltia religion, found mainly in Mt. Bur-Omisace; save for Rabanastre and Nabradia.

The Occuria (オキューリア, Okyūria)　are immortal beings, often called (by both themselves and others) "the Undying". Referred to by some as gods, but unknown to the major religions in Ivalice, the Occuria race played a vital role in the history of Ivalice such as the creation of the Espers. The Occuria and their leader, Gerun, desired control of the history and future of Ivalice. Unable to directly manipulate Ivalice, they instead created the Sun-Cryst, the source of all Nethicite, with the intent of using "chosen ones" as the "fist" with which they would shape the world as they envisioned. They initially gave the stones to the Garif, who did not know how to use them. In appearance, the Occuria have no visible faces, only a pair of glowing yellow eyes seen under their floating shell-like armor. The Occuria can become invisible to all but those they favor. They also possess the ability of possession and can also assume a form their target is familiar with. Their standard appearance, though, is recognizable in the Final Fantasy series. Their featureless faces and bright, glowing eyes mimic those of the standard Black Mage.

The Rebe (レベ, Rebe) are a minor race of Final Fantasy XII that appears in Skycity Bhujerba. Evolved from felines, they are deeply cultured and a bit aristocratic. They act as advisors and representatives for Marquis Halim Ondore the IV. In Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift, there is a more human-like subranch called the Rebe-gaaji.

The Seeq (シーク, Shīku) are a porcine race in Final Fantasy XII. Despite amazing upper-body strength, powerful defense, and surprisingly speedy movement for such a bulky race, the Seeq have low intellect and are described as barely able to speak human languages. However, Final Fantasy XII shows no real distinction between Seeq, Bangaa, or Hume characters, with all three races living in relative peace together in Rabanastre and areas outside of Archades. Though somewhat cowardly, due to their incredible physical ability, they are often hired as mercenaries, guards, or hunters, with a significant amount going into thievery. The Seeq are also attracted by shiny objects, often adorning themselves with such, sometimes to ridiculous lengths.

The Urutan-Yensa (ウルタン＝エンサ, Urutan-Ensa) are the "Lords and Masters of the Great Sea", a name bestowed befitting their presence in the Yensa Sandsea. The Urutan-Yensa are strictly territorial, attacking anyone who enters their land, including other tribes of their kind. Evolved from crustaceans, their bodies are thin and entirely covered by layers of clothing, which the bestiary states is either to hide their ugly bodies or to keep themselves protected from the sun. Their speech is usually incomprehensible, and attempts of befriending them have been met with failure. They prefer to wield simple bows and smallswords as compared to complicated instruments and machines. They had, however, learned to tame the Yensa Ichtions that dwell within the Sandsea, using them to travel great distances. They also fear the titantoises called Emeralditans, which they call "Urutan Eaters". The Urutan-Yensa are divided into different tribes, each ruled by a queen, the only one able to speak, and each Urutan-Yensa is extremely proud of their heritage; it is a shame for an Urutan-Yensa to show any form of weakness, like asking the aid of others, with only death as the fitting punishment for the disgrace and restore honor to the entire tribe. Though Urutan-Yensa appear cruel, they can show mercy to few outside their race, but only so that others who dare wander in their domain will learn to know that the Urutan-Yensa are to be feared and respected. They are also known to exile members that show unusual aggressive and violent nature, known as the Urutan-Exile.

Fran, a Viera from Final Fantasy XII

The Viera (ヴィエラ, Viera) are a mostly female character race in Final Fantasy Tactics Advance and Final Fantasy XII. The Viera possess long life, three times as long as a Human life, and are divided into two sub races: The light-skinned Veena and dark-skinned Rava. The Viera have rabbit or deer-like features, most notably their long ears. Their slender forms and long ears heighten their senses and speed, and although their defense is low, Viera agility and finesse are unmatched by any other race. In fact, Viera can listen to the surrounding nature and sense Mist, and can sometimes go berserk from feeling an overwhelmingly vast quantity of active Mist. Piercings on the ears seem to be very common as they appear on all official Tactics Advance pictures of Viera. In Final Fantasy Tactics Advance, Vieras have blue-white or purple-white hair, with only a few having hair that is pure white, which is considered to be a blessing. In Final Fantasy XII, they live in hidden villages deep within the vast forests of Ivalice, one such area is Eruyt village deep within the Golmore Jungle. The Viera believed themselves to be intimately tied to the "Wood", a part of the very forests themselves and are rarely involved in matters outside the wood. Mixed breeds of Veena and Rava Viera have accustomed themselves to coexist within Hume society, dyeing their white hair, while the pure-blooded ones remain in the forest, caring not for the outside world and learning of it through listening to the "voice of the Wood" with their ears. A Viera that moves out of the forest, like Fran, is considered an outcast and dead to her people. However, as Archadian forces began to level many forests, the number of Viera leaving the wood slightly increased.

Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles

The Clavats are biologically similar to humans and are a very peaceful race. They are generally farmers or ranchers. In the present day, a majority of Clavats live and work in the fertile Fields of Fum, providing a majority of the world's produce and cereals. Clavats are only confirmed to be capable of interbreeding with Selkies, however there is a princess that is said to be half Clavat and half Lilty. Their emblem is a crystal with a wing seen in profile, similar to the ones on the heels of their shoes.

The Lilty are a proud, stout race of warriors. In the past they ruled the world in an empire, founded off the weapons forged from materials of the Cathurgian mines. Even though their empire is now gone, the Lilties upkeep the roads built then, and form patrols to ensure the safety of the towns and caravans. Their emblem is a triple pronged spear with two banner furls.

Selkies are taller than Lilties, shorter that Clavats, and usually have silver or light purple hair. They are a rugged race dressed in furs and stolen goods, and are mostly thieves. They usually put their own interests first and are often scorned by the other tribes. In the past the Selkies were under the control of the Liltian empire and migrated from their ancestral homes to search for a safer place to live. They also seem to have been more developed culturally than in the present. They had their own language, and modern Yukes are studying Selkic texts on the Miasma suggesting that they had lore of their own. It is said that they come from the sea. Their emblem is a stylized Selkie dancing, kicking, or jumping. It has two arms raised up, and one leg to the side.

Yukes are tall, slender creatures with a suit that never seem to reveal their face, (one Yuke does open his helmet in the opening but closes it before he turns toward the screen) long, feathered, striped, dextrous hands, and small, non-used wings. In the past the Yukes were the only tribe not to be under the control of the Liltian empire. They achieved this by being sieged on the island of Shella aided by their magic. In the recent past they built the Sluice of Veo Lu, which diverts Lake Shella into the Jegon River and enables the high fertility in Fum. A majority of Yukes live at Shella teaching magic to others, but they still retain their aloofness. A non-Yuke can enter the city only if they have a Mark of Shella from the Sluice. Their emblem is a stylized Yuke seen head on.

See also

• Creatures of Final Fantasy
• List of species in fantasy fiction
• Race (fantasy)