I like how pathfinder elves have huge irises which blot out the sclera, and extremely tall and vertical ears - it's a natural evolution of the fantasy elf while also really selling a quite alien and unnatural look
which makes sense because in pathfinder they actually are aliens
fantasy elves which just look like beautiful humans are incredibly boring. if they're going to act unnaturally graceful and removed, then at least make them look the part
"human but different" has always been an issue with fantasy races, so anything that doesn't follow is definitely a right step
I also like how the pathfinder iconic that's an elf is the rogue, instead of something stereotypically snobbish and removed like a wizard. merisiel is not smart or cunning, but someone with that much life experience should naturally be the most tenacious, world-wise, and resourceful out of the bunch
the tendency to make elves removed from other people and societies gets weird when you have a 200+ year old guy who apparently still doesn't know about societal customs of the wider world, and we're supposed to believe he just spent all that time getting really good at pottery or something
Feb 5, 2026 05:51