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"These rugged individuals clothe themselves in fur decorated with stolen goods. Unlike other tribes, they believe in putting themselves first. Many Selkies are agile and athletic, traits they put to good use as thieves. Though the other tribes tend to scorn them, some Selkie now reside in Clavatian villages." - ''[[Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles]]'' instruction manual.
"These rugged individuals clothe themselves in fur decorated with stolen goods. Unlike other tribes, they believe in putting themselves first. Many Selkies are agile and athletic, traits they put to good use as thieves. Though the other tribes tend to scorn them, some Selkie now reside in Clavatian villages." - ''[[Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles]]'' instruction manual.


Selkies have a style that mostly clothes them in animal furs. They also usually have silver or light purple hair and are taller than Lilties but shorter than Clavats. They are the quickest race of Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles with quicker focus attacks; they also have a longer range on their focus attack than the other tribes. Overall, the Selkie excels at speed and have mediocre strength, defense, and magic. The Selkie "Defend" command is a quick backflip that ignores all attacks and magic. Selkies use rackets as weapons some of which shoot energy for a focus attack, similar to Final Fantasy IX. Coincidentally, the build, bone structure and hair style of some of the female Selkies resemble that of Garnet from Final Fantasy IX, although there is no connection between them other than this.
Selkies have a style that mostly clothes them in animal furs. They also usually have silver or light purple hair and are taller than Lilties but shorter than Clavats. They are the quickest race of Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles with quicker focus attacks; they also have a longer range on their focus attack than the other tribes. Overall, the Selkie excels at speed and have mediocre strength, defense, and magic. The Selkie "Defend" command is a quick backflip that ignores all attacks and magic. Selkies use rackets as weapons some of which shoot energy for a focus attack, similar to Final Fantasy IX. Coincidentally, the build, bone structure and hair style of some of the female Selkies resemble that of Garnet from Final Fantasy IX, although there is no connection between them other than this. Selkie girls mature abnormally fast, getting a womanly shape somewhere in early childhood.


Available suits (Males): Wolfie, Shark Eyes, Bandanna, Raccoon Tail
Available suits (Males): Wolfie, Shark Eyes, Bandanna, Raccoon Tail

Revision as of 21:06, 14 May 2006

This is a list of the sentient races found in the Final Fantasy series of games.

For a list of Final Fantasy monsters, fiends, and otherwise non-sentient creatures, see the Final Fantasy bestiary.

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Al Bhed

An artwork of various Al Bheds from Final Fantasy X and Final Fantasy X-2
An artwork of various Al Bheds from Final Fantasy X and Final Fantasy X-2
Cid from Final Fantasy X
Cid from Final Fantasy X

The Al Bhed appear in Final Fantasy X and its sequel, Final Fantasy X-2. Because of their use of forbidden "machina" (machines), they are viewed with suspicion by the Yevonite majority of the population, who are often described as "Al Bhed haters". 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 rest of the people, and have been the victims of persecution in the past, including an attack by Yevonites that scattered the entire race across Spira until recent history when they were reunited under the leadership of Cid (shown at right). However, 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 even allowed to participate in the Yevon-sponsored blitzball tournaments.

Al Bhed are physically set apart from Yevonites by their bright green eyes with spiral-patterned irises. As a result, they often wear goggles so they can walk among Yevonites (however, somewhat ironically, these goggles stand out more than the actual green eyes themselves). Another mark of the Al Bhed race is that most of them have blond hair, unless they have none, like Cid. In Japanese media, blond hair is often used to identify a foreigner. As a result, a common character design appears throughout Japanese media of a dark-skinned, blond-haired gaijin (外人) (foreigner). Therefore, the fact that almost all Al Bhed are blond is an indication that they are separated from the red-haired and brunette Yevonite population, which many feel could be seen as an allegory for the racism that Japanese society once held -- and, arguably, still holds -- toward foreigners. The Al Bhed also possess their own language, a fictional language that is spoken almost exclusively by the Al Bhed people themselves. Although it seems at first like a foreign language, it is actually a substitution cipher, a system of transposing certain letters for others. In the English version of the game, it shares the same syntax and grammar of English and can be translated here.

Ancients

Ifalna, the last remaining Cetra.
Ifalna, the last remaining Cetra.
Aerith Gainsborough artwork (Final Fantasy VII - PS)
Aerith Gainsborough artwork (Final Fantasy VII - PS)

The Ancients (古代種, Kodai-shu) known as the Cetra (Japanese: セトラ, Setora) are mentioned frequently in Final Fantasy VII, although few Ancients are actually depicted in the game. Those depicted are Ifalna (shown left), her daughter, Aerith Gainsborough (right), 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 in search of the fabled Promised Land, using their connection with the earth to cultivate life wherever they traveled. All ordinary humans can trace their origins to the Cetra, having ceased to become Ancients when they gave up their migratory lifestyle and link to the earth in favor of permanent settlements and a more pedantic lifestyle.

Those Cetra who retained their connection with the planet were reduced to near extinction by the arrival of the extraterrestrial entity Jenova some 2,000 years before the events of Final Fantasy VII. Jenova, which crash-landed on the Planet encased within a meteorite, unleashed itself in the form of a 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 Shin-Ra scientist Professor Gast, who would mistakenly identify it as a lost Cetra.

Many fans incorrectly believe that the Cetra are actually an alien race which migrates from Planet to Planet. This is attributed to Square Enix's failure to sufficiently clarify the difference between the terms "land" and "planet" as they are used in the game. 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 Omega Guide.

Aerith is also often described as a "half-Cetra". While this is technically true, in actuality, the Cetra are not a separate biological species but rather a group of people who adhere to a specific lifestyle and set of teachings, with Aerith being described as the last living individual to fully follow this lifeway. While being a Cetra is biologically inherited, through the choice of one's lifestyle, this status can be changed. With Aerith's death, the Cetra lifestyle is believed to be extinct.

The Ancients are also a race in Final Fantasy III. Ages before the game took place, these 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 Dark World 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 Desh is an Ancient who guards the Tower of Owen, which keeps the Floating Continent in the air.

It has also been hinted that Barret Wallace's adopted daughter Marlene is an Ancient. This was hinted in the original game's final cutscene with Marlene in Kalm (Marlene and Aerith's adoptive mother Elmyra had been taken to Kalm to safety by Reeve to avoid Meteor's direct impact on Midgar) saying "The flower girl?" and then running to a window and opening it to see Meteor directly over Midgar. It is also hinted in Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children when she gets another premonition of Aerith talking to her, along with visions of water in Aerith's church. However, it is unknown whether Marlene's biological father Dyne or Marlene's biological mother Eleanor (or both) are Ancients. If either Dyne or Eleanor were Ancients, that would make Marlene a half-Ancient. If Dyne and Eleanor were both Ancients, that would make Marlene a full-blooded Ancient. If neither Dyne nor Eleanor were Ancients, then short of either divine intervention or immaculate conception, Marlene would not be an Ancient.

Bangaa

Bangaa race art from Final Fantasy Tactics Advance
Bangaa race art from Final Fantasy Tactics Advance

Bangaa are a reptilian race introduced in Final Fantasy Tactics Advance and appearing in Final Fantasy XII. They are separated into four main sub-branches according to the color of their skin: Bangaa Ruga (yellow-brown), Bangaa Faa (bronze), Banga Bista (reddish-brown), and Bangaa Sanga (ash-colored). 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 labeled as common "lizards".

In addition, Bangaa possess great agility and acute senses of hearing and smell, making them excellent hunters and fighters. Their magical abilities, however, are significantly less developed than those of Humes and Moogles, though they possess several exclusive higher-level spells. 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 or Viera.

Burmecian

Freya Crescent, Burmecian, from Final Fantasy IX
Freya Crescent, Burmecian, from Final Fantasy IX

The Burmecians appear in Final Fantasy IX, where they are depicted as rat-like beings 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 1,000 years; 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 100 years.

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During the course of the game, the Burmecians are almost wiped out by successive attacks on their two main cities, leaving Burmecia in ruins, and Cleyra totally destroyed. First, Burmecia is attacked by Black Mages sent by Queen Brahne; the king of Burmecia and some survivors made their way to Cleyra, while others such as a young couple, Kal and his pregnant wife Wei, and two soldiers, Doyle and Gray, headed to Lindblum while some chose to stay in the ruins of their city. Later, Queen Brahne launches an attack on Cleyra to get a powerful relic from the peaceful inhabitants. After obtaining the gem, she then summons the eidolon Odin to destroy the tree that Cleyra was built on. The only (known) survivors of the attack are Freya, Zidane, Vivi, Quina (an optional character at this point), Sir Fratley, Prince Puck, Oracle Kildea, and a few moogles.

Cactuar

Main article: Cactuar

The Cactuar are intelligent, talking cacti that appear in the games Final Fantasy VI, Final Fantasy VIII, Final Fantasy IX, Final Fantasy X, and its sequel, Final Fantasy X-2. The Cactuar can also be found in Final Fantasy VII, though only on one VERY small island, and in a desert near the Gold Saucer. In Final Fantasy XI and Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles , they are found as an enemy. Originally mobile during the early stages of their life, they eventually take root and mature into cacti when they reach adulthood. They are known to be fast movers and in self defense, they like to unleash their attack known as 1,000 needles. Like many other small animals of the Final Fantasy series, Lulu uses cactuar dolls as some of her weapons.

Clavat

File:Clavats.jpg
Two Clavats

From Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles

"A gentle people that value harmony above all. Many of Tipa's residents belong to this tribe of unity and friendship. They are gentle by nature and dislike conflict. When disputes arise, they do whatever they can to resolve them. It is said that tranquility follows them wherever they go." - Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles instruction manual

Physically, they are usually light-skinned humans with blond or brown hair. Clavats are generally farmers or ranchers, and very peaceful generally, though due to the necessity of crystal caravans there are several who do fight. In battle, Clavats use a sword and shield, often using slash based movements as a result of, or possibly resulting in, an inclination towards single edged blades similar to scimitars. When a Clavat uses the "defend" command, he or she raises their shield to block the attack. Clavats have the most balanced skills out of any of the four races in Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles

Available Suits (Males): Cowlick, Natural, Headband, Cap

Available Suits (Females): Long Hair, Short Hair, Dark Coat, White Cap

Dragon

Dragons, a quintessential part of any fantasy-themed world, are featured in every culture world-wide. Likewise, every Final Fantasy has its own dragons. In several of these, Dragons are depicted as being benign as opposed to malignant and on occasion are even shown as sentient. FFI includes a kingdom of dragons ruled by Bahamut, who offers to help strengthen the party. FFII has a species of lesser dragons who are the aids to the Dragon Knights and were not shown as intelligent until the rerelease of the game as "Dawn of Souls". Dragons fall off the intelligent chart in FFIII, but return in FFIV as members of the Summoned Monster Race, though Bahamut himself dwells on the moon in human guise. FFV returns to the dragons-as-vehicles idea, though this time makes little to no mention of the dragons' sentience. In FFVI they are again cast into the group of Summoned Monsters (Called Espers in VI) and are also a part of a group of violent monsters which were sealed off at the end of the war of the Magi. VII and VIII make no mention of dragons (aside from enemies and summons), and IX includes Bahamut as a pawn in Kuja's schemes. FFX has Bahamut as an Aeon. FFXI features several dragons, which also include distinction as "wyrms". The dragons include several smaller bosses and wyrms such as Fafnir, Nidhogg, Tiamat, Jormungand, and Vrtra are a large part of end game activities. Dragons, as depicted in Final Fantasy games, are generally European in style, meaning the tend to be large tri- or quint-dactyl lizards with leathery wings capable of breathing flame. Sentient dragons in FF are usually prone to walking on two feet, while lesser dragons will walk on all fours.

Dwarf

Dwarves (Final Fantasy IX - PS)
Dwarves (Final Fantasy IX - PS)

Dwarves are a race of short humanoid creatures in Norse mythology, fairy tales, sword and sorcery fiction and role-playing games. Dwarves are much like humans, but generally living underground or in mountainous areas. The Dwarves first appeared in the first Final Fantasy. In that game, they provide a waterway for the Light Warriors' ship. Later in the game, a dwarven smith forges the legendary Excalibur sword from the metal Adamantium.

Final Fantasy III contains a Dwarf civilization, and there is the Viking job whose costume resembles the traditional sprite for a Final Fantasy Dwarf.

The Dwarves also appear as the residents and rulers of the Underworld in Final Fantasy IV. Led by King Giott, these Dwarves often help Cid Pollendina modify the party's airships.

In Final Fantasy V, a single Dwarf also makes an appearance, trapped in a submarine cavern.

In Final Fantasy IX, the village of Conde Petie on the Outer Continent is inhabited by friendly dwarves.

Dwarves are often heard calling out "Lali-Ho" (perhaps as a sort of greeting). Other calls include "Rally-Ho" and "Tally-Ho", although these are usually translation errors in the games, for the proper call is "Lali-Ho".

It should be noted that the status-spell "Mini" in FFIV and FFV does not turn people into Dwarves. It merely reduces their size.

See also: Dwarf

Elvaan

An Elvaan
An Elvaan

The Elvaan 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 FFXI 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 also appeared in Final Fantasy I, in which they were known simply as Elves.

Esper

The Espers, appearing in Final Fantasy VI, are creatures of many shapes, sizes, and abilities. They have varying magical abilities - while some may share a few abilities, none has a complete matching set. 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 who had gained magical powers through unstated means known as Magi, 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.

Galka

A Galka
A Galka

The Galka are a fictional apelike humanoid race inhabiting Vana'diel, the world of Final Fantasy XI. These large, brutish humanoids are best in fighting professions because of their high strength and health points. 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 6 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, thereby, genderless although typically considered male.


Genome

Zidane Tribal (Final Fantasy IX - PS)
Zidane Tribal (Final Fantasy IX - PS)
Zidane Tribal from Final Fantasy IX
Zidane Tribal from Final Fantasy IX

Genome are bodies created by the Terrans of Final Fantasy IX. They do have minds, but they have no souls. 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 3 Genomes to speed up the takeover process: Kuja, Zidane, and Mikoto.

Their tails, almost identical appearance, and soul-less nature make them into allusions to embryos: in its early stages, the human embryo has a tail and is identical to every other mammalian embryo. The game suggests that (like the Genomes) embryos do not yet have souls but will receive them eventually. Soulless Genomes, contrary to what one might think, do not just lie motionless; they behave like efficient, if purposeless, automatons. Perhaps it is a reference to the idea of the higher and lower souls ('hun' and 'po', respectively).

Guado

A Guado Guard from Final Fantasy X
A Guado Guard from Final Fantasy X

Guado are an arboreal humanoid race inhabiting Spira, the world of Final Fantasy X and Final Fantasy X-2. They are set apart by their long limbs and fingers, pale green skin, veins visible on the temples and forehead, and wild blue-green hair. They are the keepers of the entryway to the Farplane, where the images of the dead appear.

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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 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. Depending on the player's actions in Final Fantasy X-2, the Guado may gain the courage to return to their home, where Jyscal and Seymour's former vizier Tromell assumes leadership among his people and proceeds to repair the Guado's image and their relations with the rest of Spira.

Guado can breed with humans (and presumably Al Bhed as well, as Al Bhed are themselves an ethnically distinct group of humans). Seymour was, himself, half-human.

Gurgan

Gurgan (Final Fantasy III - NES)
Gurgan (Final Fantasy III - NES)

Gurgans are one-eyed sages that foretell the future in Final Fantasy III. They are central characters in the unfolding of the story, and are likely a reference to Odin from Norse mythology.

Humans

Humans appear in all the games of the Final Fantasy series, often 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 . Humans are known as Humes in Final Fantasy XI and Final Fantasy XII. In the games series, Humans are often associated with having all-around skills, being adaptive and utilising technology to the best of their abilities.

Hummingway

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.

Hypello

File:Hypello drawing.png
File:Hypello.jpg
Hypello (Final Fantasy X/X-2 - PS2) riding a Shoopuf

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 and usually work as Shoopuf handlers or captains aboard the Shoopuf ferries. Though extremely quick and agile swimmers, they are curiously the only race in Spira that does not participate in blitzball tournaments.

Kappa

Also known as the Imp, the Kappa derives its name from a monster of Japanese myth (See Kappa). The Kappa only appears in Final Fantasy VI and fills the role of Mog on several occasions. He is never met by the cast, but the same form fills for the party when they are 'imped' or 'kappa-ed' as the case may be.

Kuluu

The Kuluu are an ancient race that existed 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 lacked the "Whisper of the Soul". 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. Only two Kuluu survived this incident, however they were unaccounted for until the Chains of Promathia storyline began.

Lilty

From Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles

Various Lilties
Various Lilties

"These little warriors have lived all over the world since ancient times. Long ago, they ruled the world, and many still believe themselves to be superior to others. Though they can be hotheaded, they are also confident and down-to-earth. Liltian merchants are some of the best around." - Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles instruction manual.

The Lilty are proud, stout warriors. They are the absolute strongest tribe of Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles. While they have the highest attack power, they are the worst spell casters. For the "Defend" command, Lilties block physical attacks by guarding with their spear. The Lilties use spears as weapons and have the ability to get the strongest weapon in the game, Longinus, which is made using Celestial Weapon.

Available suits (Males): Bare Head, Horned Helm, Steel Visor, Bucket Head

Available suits (Females): Bare Head, Blue Armor, Elegant, Red Mask

Lucavi

The Lucavi are a group of demons from Final Fantasy Tactics. 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 following Lucavi are known to exist, and have made contracts with the characters in parenthesis:

  • Queklain, the Impure King (Cardinal Draclau), who is associated with the Scorpio Stone.
  • Velius, the Warlock (Wiegraf Folles), who is associated with the Aries Stone.
  • Zalera, the Angel of Death (Marquis Elmdor), who is associated with the Gemini Stone.
  • Adramelk a.k.a. Adramelech, the Ghost of Fury (Dycedarg Beoulve), who is associated with the Capricorn Stone.
  • Hashmalum, the Regulator (Vormav Tingel), who is associated with the Leo Stone and is second-in-command of the Lucavi.
  • Altima, the Bloody Angel (Ajora Glabados), who is associated with the Virgo Stone and is the leader of the Lucavi.

In addition, there is a special Lucavi known as Elidibs, which is also the name of the mortal he is associated with. This Lucavi is bound to a thirteenth "Serpentarius" Stone of unknown origin. He can be found at the bottom of the Deep Dungeon.

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 Glabadosian 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; Adramelech is based on Adramelk, and Ultima is based on Altima. All of them except Elidibs also appear as summons in Final Fantasy XII. An enemy known as a "Rukavi" also appears in Final Fantasy Tactics Advance, with the vampire sprite.

Lufenian/Lefeinish

Lunefenian (Final Fantasy - PS)
Lunefenian (Final Fantasy - PS)

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.

Lunarian

FuSoYa menu (Final Fantasy IV - SNES)
FuSoYa menu (Final Fantasy IV - SNES)
FuSoYa (Final Fantasy IV - SNES)
FuSoYa (Final Fantasy IV - SNES)

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.

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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.

Mermaids

Appearing only in Final Fantasy 1, Mermaids fit the stereotype. 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.

Mithra

A Mithra
A Mithra

The Mithra are a predominantly female race of hunters who live alongside the Tarutaru in Windurst in Final Fantasy XI. 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, making them ideally suited to the thief occupation, though they are also proficient mages. 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.

File:Mog.jpg
Mog (Final Fantasy VII - PC)
Mog (Final Fantasy VII - PC)

Moogles are little creatures that appear throughout the Final Fantasy series, Kingdom Hearts, and Seiken Densetsu (Holy Sword Legend/'Secret of Mana') series. They first appeared in Final Fantasy III, although their appearance is based on a Final Fantasy II creature called the Beaver. They provide a variety of services; in some games they are playable characters, as in Final Fantasy VI and Final Fantasy Tactics Advance. They appear as a Summon spell in Final Fantasy Tactics and Final Fantasy VII. They also appear in FFVII in a minigame called Mog House, and their likeness appears on several objects seen throughout the game. In Final Fantasy VIII, the MiniMog Summon can be acquired through playing the Chocobo World minigame.

In Final Fantasy IX, Moogles provide save points, shops, allow the use of a tent to restore health, and use the player as a courier to send mail to other Moogles via a network known as Mognet. In the world of Final Fantasy X, Moogles are only seen as Lulu's dolls/weapons, and in Final Fantasy X-2 as Yuna's costume in the Mascot job. In Final Fantasy XI, Moogles take care of the player's house, which is known as the Moghouse. They are also the organizers of special events such as those that occur on the holidays, and usually need to be talked to before beginning the event. Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles uses Moogles for two purposes: sending mail and carrying the Myrrh chalice. Also in this game, a Moogle named Stiltzkin (who also appeared in FFIX) teaches the characters the basics of combat. In Final Fantasy Tactics Advance, a Moogle named Montblanc teaches the protagonist, Marche, everything he needs to know about the fictional world in which he now resides. In Final Fantasy XII, another Moogle named "Montblanc" is a clan leader.

Moogle artwork (Final Fantasy IX - PS)
Moogle artwork (Final Fantasy IX - PS)
Moogle (Final Fantasy XI - PC)
Moogle (Final Fantasy XI - PC)

Moogles are called "Moguri" in the Japanese games, a combination of the Japanese words "mogura" and "koumori" ("mole" and "bat," respectively). In most depictions, Moogles tend to have small eyes (as do moles) and black, red, or purple bat-like wings. Their most distinguishing feature is a single black antenna that sticks up from the head with a small, usually red, ball (or "pompom") at the end. Their ears are usually shaped like a cat's, but in Final Fantasy Tactics Advance they have longer rabbit-like ears. Most Moogles have white fur; however, Artemecian from FFIX dyed his fur purple, and Montblanc from FFTA has tan fur.

When speaking human languages, they tend to end their sentences with the sound 'kupo'; some games briefly mention a language formed out of various permutations of 'kupo'.

Moogles, along with Chocobos, are the mascot of the Final Fantasy series. In a few Final Fantasies, namely Final Fantasy VII and Final Fantasy VIII, they have also been called Mogs.

Moogles also can be seen in the Traverse Town world of Kingdom Hearts and in every world in Kingdom Hearts II. In Kingdom Hearts, they serve as the Synthesize Shop owners, and have a similar role in the sequel. They can also be seen in Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories as card-shop keepers.

Moomba

A Moomba
A Moomba
Moomba (Final Fantasy VIII - PS)
Moomba (Final Fantasy VIII - PS)

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. A Moomba also appears in Chocobo World. (They can be summoned in battle if the player has a PocketStation.) 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.

Nu Mou

Nu Mou artwork (Final Fantasy Tactics Advance - GBA)
Nu Mou artwork (Final Fantasy Tactics Advance - GBA)

The Nu Mou are a dog-like species from Final Fantasy Tactics Advance and Final Fantasy XII talented in the magical fields. 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 Mou are Babus Swain(Rune Seeker) and Ezel Berbier(Hermetic) both of them appeared as secret characters in Final Fantasy Tactics Advance.

Qu

Quina Quen (Final Fantasy IX - PS)
Quina Quen (Final Fantasy IX - PS)

A Qu is someone from a race of large, clownish people, seemingly androgynous humanoids from Final Fantasy IX. They have a long tongue and are recognized as fine gourmets. Quina Quen, a playable character, is one of them. 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. Their primary weapon of choice is a Fork, and they have the unusual ability of gaining the abilities of their enemies by eating them. This gives the Qu characteristic abilities of a Blue Mage.

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.

Ronso

Kimahri Ronso (Final Fantasy X/X-2 - PS2)
Kimahri Ronso (Final Fantasy X/X-2 - PS2)

In Final Fantasy X and Final Fantasy X-2, 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.

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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 whom he had just recently defeated). 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. During Final Fantasy X-2, a young Ronso named Garik assembles his fellow kinsmen for an attack against the Guado, but he is thwarted in his plans of rebellion by the Gullwings when he goes to get Gagazet's "blessing." Confused and angry, Garik demands Kimahri what path there is for the tribe; but Kimahri has no answer, and Garik rejects him as their leader. But through the experiences of young Lian and Ayde (who had just traveled Spira in a vain attempt to fix Kimahri's horn), Kimahri saw the Ronso must experience all of Spira to continue their path. And thus, after proving to Garik that violence doesn't answer anything, the Ronso elder decides his tribe must first learn of the rapidly-changing Spira to decide the fate of their race.

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Seeq

Three Seeqs
Three Seeqs

A pig-like race in Final Fantasy XII. Despite amazing upper-body strength, powerful defense, and equally speedy movement, the Seeq have a low intellect and can't speak human languages. For the most part they are occupied as mercenaries, guards, or hunters, with a significant amount going into thievery. The Seeq are also attracted by shiny objects. Many compare these creatures to the Moblins of The Legend of Zelda series.

Selkie

File:Selkie.jpg
A Selkie.

From Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles

"These rugged individuals clothe themselves in fur decorated with stolen goods. Unlike other tribes, they believe in putting themselves first. Many Selkies are agile and athletic, traits they put to good use as thieves. Though the other tribes tend to scorn them, some Selkie now reside in Clavatian villages." - Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles instruction manual.

Selkies have a style that mostly clothes them in animal furs. They also usually have silver or light purple hair and are taller than Lilties but shorter than Clavats. They are the quickest race of Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles with quicker focus attacks; they also have a longer range on their focus attack than the other tribes. Overall, the Selkie excels at speed and have mediocre strength, defense, and magic. The Selkie "Defend" command is a quick backflip that ignores all attacks and magic. Selkies use rackets as weapons some of which shoot energy for a focus attack, similar to Final Fantasy IX. Coincidentally, the build, bone structure and hair style of some of the female Selkies resemble that of Garnet from Final Fantasy IX, although there is no connection between them other than this. Selkie girls mature abnormally fast, getting a womanly shape somewhere in early childhood.

Available suits (Males): Wolfie, Shark Eyes, Bandanna, Raccoon Tail

Available suits (Females): Wolfie, Raccoon Tail, Shark Eyes, Owl Head

Shumi

NORG (Final Fantasy VIII - PS)
NORG (Final Fantasy VIII - PS)

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.

Tarutaru

File:Viron.PNG
Tarutaru
File:Tarutaru.jpg

A race of skilled mages who call Windurst their home in the world of Vana'diel featured in Final Fantasy XI. 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, including the summoners who fought during the Crystal War of 863 C.E. 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.

A Tonberry from Final Fantasy IX.
A Tonberry from Final Fantasy IX.

A Tonberry is quite small, usually no taller than three feet. It typically has green skin and a round head with a small snout and round yellow eyes; it walks on two legs and resembles, to some small degree, a bipedal lizard or turtle. However, it always wears a hooded cloak, usually plain brown or grey in color, and its dolphin-like tail can be seen peeking out from beneath the hem. A Tonberry always carries a lantern and a long, sharp butcher's knife; one to light its way through the caverns in which they live, the other to fend off enemies. Their best known attack is Chef's Knife, which usually kills a character in one blow. The Tonberry must first reach the character however, slowly approaching with each turn. Tonberries also usually counterattack physical or magical attacks with "Everyone's Grudge" or "Karma", which damage the victim to a degree proportional to the number of monsters he or she has defeated. In Final Fantasy X Master Tonberries can also kill a summoned Aeon with a Voodoo Doll. Final Fantasy XI is the only Final Fantasy game which allows players to actually converse with Tonberries.

Varg

A commonly overlooked species, the Varg are a breed of Werewolves that appear in Final Fantasy V and VI. They walk on two legs and seem capable of using tools. Notable members of the Varg race are the Dawn Warrior Kelga and the thief known as Lone Wolf.

Viera

A Viera archer, Final Fantasy Tactics Advance
A Viera archer, Final Fantasy Tactics Advance

The Viera are a character race in Final Fantasy Tactics Advance and Final Fantasy XII. They are apparently all female and have rabbit-like features, most notably their long ears and tremendous longevity, and have blue-white, purple-white, or white(pure white is considdered a blessing(reveiled by Shaara in Final Fantasy Tactics Advance)) hair. Their slender forms and long ears heighten their senses and speed. They have two subraces, the light-skinned Veena and dark-skinned Rava. There is no evidence to suggest that skin color is the basis for social division or racism in Viera culture. Piercings on the ears seem to be very common as they appear on all official Tactics Advance pictures of Viera. In Final Fantasy XII, they lived in the forests of Ivalice until war began, during which time some of the Viera began to live with humans. Some in Ivalice even say they can speak to the Spirit Realm. Mystery and spirituality encompass the Viera and their jobs. Although their defense is low, Viera agility and finesse are unmatched by any other race. The Viera have 6 unique jobs, all of which focus on speed, spirituality, and stealth.

Possible Viera jobs in Final Fantasy Tactics Advance are:

  • Archer: The Archer is a primary job for the Viera and can be chosen from the beginning. The Archer relies on long-range attacks with her bow. She deals low damage and has low defense, and as such is more of a support unit. Her abilities are called "AIM" and they are used for inflicting status ailments on enemies ("Aim: Arm" for example disallows enemy action) and boosting attack.
  • Sniper: A stage-two job. 2 archer skills are required to get a sniper. Snipers also rely on long-range and their greatbows. They share weapons with human Hunters. Their abilities are similar to those of an archer: they slow down and inflict status ailments (for example "Beso Toxico", which inflicts poison). Snipers also have damaging abilities.
  • Assassin: An expert class for the Viera. Needs 1 sniper skill and 2 elementalist skills to promote. Assassins are fast-moving units that wield both bows and swords. Their skillset "Corner" inflicts status penalties ("RockSeal": petrifies) and damage ("Ultima Masher": high damage). Assassins also have an ability called "Last Breath" which is a one-hit KO.
  • White Mage: A primary class, it can be chosen in the beginning. The White Mage has low defense and its attack is pathetic. White Mages use White Magic to heal and bestow status bonuses on allies.
  • Red Mage: A stage-two job, requires one fencer skill. Red Mages can wield both Black and White Magic. They attack with rapiers and sabers. Red Mages have an ability called Doublecast which allows them to cast two spells in one turn.
  • Elementalist: A stage-two job: needs one fencer skill and one white mage skill. The elementalist wields Spirit Magic that damages and inflicts a status ailment on an enemy.
  • Summoner: An expert job: needs two white mage skills and two elementalist skills. The summoner summons creatures which can then be commanded in battle. A summoner's attack has a large AOE (area of effect).
  • Fencer: A primary job. A fencer wields rapiers and sabers. Fencers have high speed and evasion. Their defense is rather low. An R-ability: Reflex, allows the fencer to avoid any "Fight" action.

Yuke

A Yuke
A Yuke

From Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles

"The Yukes, a mysterious tribe of great lore and wisdom. Many of these sages live quietly in Shella. In the ancient wars, they were able to resist the invading Liltian armies thanks to their magical prowess. Now they spend their days, teaching magic to others. Some say that Yukes assumed their current form to augment their magical talents." - Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles instruction manual.

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, dextrous hands, and small, non-used wings. Yukes are the best magic characters in the game. Although, they suffer from being the slowest attacker and having the least strength, they are allowed to cast spells quicker than the other three races and start out with the highest magic stat. When a Yuke character uses the "Defend" command, they turn invisible and are immune to damage and status afflictions, which is probably to compensate for their poor physical defense. The Yukes use mallets and hammers as weapons.

Available suits (Males): One Horn, Bumpy, Long Beak, Black Mage

Available suits (Females): Spiral, Tulip, Spoon, Heart Top

Zilart

Eald'narche (Final Fantasy XI - PS2/PC/Xbox 260)
Eald'narche (Final Fantasy XI - PS2/PC/Xbox 260)

The Zilart are an ancient race that existed during the same time period as the Kuluu in Final Fantasy XI. They look similar to Humes (Humans) and are exceedingly intelligent. They possessed a trait known as the "whisper of the soul," which is most likely 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 capitol 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.

See also