I probably stand in stark contrast. I exclusively play male characters, always. Not so much out of an unwillingness or incapability to assume a more 'female' Role, but simply because it doesn't sit too well with me.
I think it mostly originates from the fact that I strongly believe that, while Men and Women are ofcourse very alike, there 'are' a few, but very profound differences that make it simply impossible for me to portray a woman realistically. Just like I'm sure it's the same for women in regards to men. I'm not talking specifically in a 'writing-only' fashion. But it is something even famous writers struggle with. the POV of the opposite sex isn't as easy to assume realistically as most would like to believe it.
Now, I'm not talking out of stereotypes or 'gender perceptions' that society dictates. I'm talking about those very profound, nuanced differences we all can spot in behavior between men and women, but can hardly put into words.
As for the ratio in general ; I think FFXIV is very pro-female oriented in its variety of outfits, options and even appearance customization. And from a purely subjective point of view, I believe the female models/options look more appealing compared to the males. We suffer from a serious lack of good looking hairstyles, body options and outfits. Almost every outfit out there has some effeminate traits to it aswell. I.E, the battlemage outfit with it's cleavage cut, Vanya Robes with their flowers, leather pants so tight you'd expect David Bowie to quirk a brow, etc etc. Again, that part is purely subjective and my personal opinion, not really saying that everyone perceives it as such.
I think it mostly originates from the fact that I strongly believe that, while Men and Women are ofcourse very alike, there 'are' a few, but very profound differences that make it simply impossible for me to portray a woman realistically. Just like I'm sure it's the same for women in regards to men. I'm not talking specifically in a 'writing-only' fashion. But it is something even famous writers struggle with. the POV of the opposite sex isn't as easy to assume realistically as most would like to believe it.
Now, I'm not talking out of stereotypes or 'gender perceptions' that society dictates. I'm talking about those very profound, nuanced differences we all can spot in behavior between men and women, but can hardly put into words.
As for the ratio in general ; I think FFXIV is very pro-female oriented in its variety of outfits, options and even appearance customization. And from a purely subjective point of view, I believe the female models/options look more appealing compared to the males. We suffer from a serious lack of good looking hairstyles, body options and outfits. Almost every outfit out there has some effeminate traits to it aswell. I.E, the battlemage outfit with it's cleavage cut, Vanya Robes with their flowers, leather pants so tight you'd expect David Bowie to quirk a brow, etc etc. Again, that part is purely subjective and my personal opinion, not really saying that everyone perceives it as such.