Since the release of Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn back in 2013, fans have been clamoring for the inclusion of new races, most notably the rabbit-eared Viera race from the Ivalice world featured in Final Fantasy XII and Final Fantasy Tactics Advanced, where the race made its debut. Before the release of Final Fantasy XIV’s first expansion, Heavensward, it was speculated that the Viera would be added as the new race. However, that possibility was dashed with the reveal of the Au Ra, an entirely new race in the Final Fantasy series.
The game’s second expansion, Stormblood, is just two weeks from release, and once again the Viera have been excluded. In a new interview, XIV’s producer and director Naoki Yoshida was asked why the Viera have once more been left out of the game. Yoshida noted that Viera fans shouldn’t give up hope, and even explained one of the challenges about integrating the rabbit-like race into the XIV universe.
“I don’t think you should give up hope. I mean we’re hoping Final Fantasy XIV will have a very long lifespan. With that being said. Fran and the Viera race have a very high heel and trying to depict that in Final Fantasy XIV is challenging. They won’t be able to wear any shoes that exist in Eorzea right now.”
Final Fantasy XIV is available for PC, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 3. Its second expansion, Stormblood, will release on June 20th, with early access starting on June 16th.
