Hippos! No, not actual hippos, although that would be awesome: hippogryphs, that bizarre fantastic creature of legend that’s basically a cross between a horse and an eagle. And they’re the subject of Ashes of Creation’s latest dev blog.
“Since ancient times, the hippogryph has been a symbol of noble and majestic strength for numerous cultures. They are cunning and fiercely independent creatures. A rarity it is, for one to have the opportunity to get close enough without being torn apart by their piercing beaks and talons. However, those fortunate enough to form a bond with a hippogryph will find them to be loyal beings, almost to a fault. It is a sight to see a hippogryph and its rider leading the vanguard of a prestigious army. Such is the inspiration they bring.”
These mounts come in multiple breeds in Ashes: the Warwind, the Nighthawk, the Winterhawk. I warn you, there are more than a dozen images of absolutely adorable bird-horses.