Paul Farquhar
Legend
Tell that to the were-pig, warforged-zombie hybrid, anthropomorphic house cat, and the gith (the normal one) who were in the party last night.The main point is that “circus troupe” parties remain uncommon. I played a Wemic and a Flind in 2e yet the majority of my characters Have been human or half-elf.
I gave 20+ options in my current games and 1 party is human, wood elf, half-wood elf, and dwarf. The other is human, dwarf, high elf, aasimar, and gnome.
The second party is most diverse I have seen in years.
This may be changing but I think most people still prefer to hew closer to human-like species.
I don’t think your experience is common, and is probably down to the age and culture of your players.