Final Fantasy XIV Keybound Brawler Gender Locks [Controversy]

According to verified reports from Kotaku published in October 2026, developer Square Enix has ignited intense community backlash after revealing that the upcoming Keybound Brawler typing minigame features restrictive gender-locked cosmetic rewards for all participating players. In this initial iteration, users can win costumes to dress their Warriors of Light as either Barret or Tifa from Final Fantasy VII Rebirth. However, male characters are strictly limited to Barret's outfit, while female characters are restricted to Tifa's attire. Fans argue this step backward violates previous developer commitments to eliminate gender restrictions on cosmetics, noting successful prior removals on wedding garments and maid outfits prior to the Endwalker expansion. For dedicated players tackling extensive RPG content such as those outlined in our comprehensive [Final Fantasy Longest Games to Beat: Full Ranked List [Guide]](/news/longest-final-fantasy-games-ranked-guide), cosmetic personalization remains an absolute cornerstone of the endgame experience. This unexpected regression has prompted disappointed fans to publicly reconsider subscription renewals, raising urgent questions about design consistency and why leadership chose to reintroduce rigid limitations on player expression despite overwhelming community demand for complete freedom.