I chose to be a female Taru PLD in FFXI because it messed with people's heads. No one really expected it, so it was really fun : ) Nupopo in FFXIV is an extension of that with an actual background and such to make her suitable for RP.
When it comes to RP though I almost always pick female characters to play and when I have to choose a race, I try to pick one that isn't geared for fan service or one that has a background that I enjoy. I'm also picky about looks... one of the reasons I rarely pick guys in MMOs is because they often look so screwed up in comparison to females (though even female models can be ick if the developers decide all women are >< and have giant breasts -.-. I'm still trying to decide on a race for my second toon, but I'm pretty sure I won't make her/him a lalafell.
Edit:
Ex. of "ick" female avatars see TERA -.-
When it comes to RP though I almost always pick female characters to play and when I have to choose a race, I try to pick one that isn't geared for fan service or one that has a background that I enjoy. I'm also picky about looks... one of the reasons I rarely pick guys in MMOs is because they often look so screwed up in comparison to females (though even female models can be ick if the developers decide all women are >< and have giant breasts -.-. I'm still trying to decide on a race for my second toon, but I'm pretty sure I won't make her/him a lalafell.
Edit:
Ex. of "ick" female avatars see TERA -.-