There are 4 nations established in the world of Ryzom; one corresponding to each of the 4 homin races. Thus the names of the 4 homin races, Fyros, Matis, Tryker and Zoraï are often used interchangeable to refer to both the race and the nation, which can sometimes lead to confusion. When people speak of "Fyros culture" or "Matis history", they more often than not mean the culture and history of the nation. Just go look at the pages of the homin races and you'll see plenty of this.

It should be remembered that none of the nations represents all homins of it's race. Not all Fyros are part of the Fyros nation, and so on. Many homins of all races do not belong to any of the nations, including those homins in tribes, as well as bandits and Marauders. As well, some homins chose to become citizens of a different nation than their race dictates. A Tryker could very well decide to become a citizen of the Zoraï nation, for example.

Players can gain fame with all of the 4 nations, and can become a citizen of one of the 4 nations (see alignment). A player can also become a member of the government of the nation they're a citizen of (see governments).

The Fyros Empire

Race: Fyros Territory: Burning Desert Ruler: Emperor Dexton Government: Akenak State Religion: Kami Enemies: Renegades • Lawless • Scorchers Allies: Leviers • Water Breakers • Frahar Hunters • Oasis Diggers • Pyromancers • Watchers • Root Tappers

The Matis Kingdom

Race: Matis Territory: Verdant Heights Ruler: King Yrkanis Government: Nobles State Religion: Karavan Enemies: Sacred Sap • First Deserters • the Slash and Burn • Woven Bridles • Ancient Dryads Allies: Green Seed • The Arid Matis • Darkening Sap • Sap Slaves • The Kuild

The Tryker Federation

Race: Tryker Territory: Aeden Aqueous Ruler: Governor Ailan Government: Taliari State Religion: Karavan Enemies: Slavers • Lagoon Brothers Allies: Corsairs • Green Seed • Silt Sculptors • Shadow Runners • Ecowarriors • Root Tappers

The Zoraï Dynasty

Race: Zoraï Territory: Witherings Ruler: Grand Sage Mabreka Government: Awakened State Religion: Kami Enemies: Antikamis • Goo Heads • Darkening Sap • Master of the Goo Allies: Icon Worshippers • Siblings of the Weeds • Sacred Sap • Tutors • Ecowarriors • Company of the Eternal Tree

Other

The Marauders could be seen as a nation. Though they are a lose coalition of clans rather than a single state, they have a government and territory.

Tribes can sometimes be seen as mini-nations. Some have their own government and make claims to territories.