Aion only features 2 playable races; however the ability to fully customize your character’s features (to the smallest detail) will ensure a significant variety. Many RPG players enjoy playing exotic, unorthodox races (hello gnomes); these players will most likely be disappointed that the playable characters in Aion all look “normal” and are not very distinguished from each other.
The two playable races are the Elyos and Asmodian; neither of which seems to be the “bad guys” (like the Horde). The lore of the game states that their world was split in two during a massive war and that after several years the two races finally met again in the center only to renew their ancient conflict. The lore and intonation surrounding the races will most likely be what drives each player to their choice. Although there are abilities and equipment available only to each race, this does not seem to affect the choice players have been making since the differences are so balanced.
The Elyos can be described as elitist and vain; they see the Asmodians as a lower cast and are overly proud of their own beauty. Their city of Sanctum (pictured above) is colourful and filled with light, along with their starting zones. Most notably, the Elyos wings are more angelic and vibrant.
The Asmodians, on the other hand, seem far more aggressive and feel a need for revenge as they blame the destruction of the Tower of Eternity on the “weak” ancestors of the Elyos. They have lived all this time in near darkness (which has caused their eyes to glow red, and that’s totally badass) while struggling in a harsh world. Their home city of Pandaemonium is a bit more twisted and dark in comparison to Sanctum but still has it’s own form of beauty to appreciate while passing through.
Regardless of the race you decide on, all classes will be available to you. Details on the skill differences have not fully been released (perhaps we’ll have more regarding this after the beta testing this weekend). For those of us coming from WoW we can most likely expect a generally more mature crowd in this game so I wouldn’t worry too much about which race the bratty kids will select!
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