I don’t think ALL of the core races seem lackluster but several admittedly do.
I agree though that the core races that are lackluster should be brought up to snuff before allied races get their pass. I also agree that allied races that have barely been touched should be given their pass before those that have already gotten stuff.
Additionally, I agree that many core races could stand to get second (and even third or fourth) themes to round out their options.
I don’t agree that allied races should be pigeonholed into only their main visual theme. Void Elves have already broken that mold and it wouldn’t be fair to deny other allied races more varied options outside of their main theme.
For example, I think Dark Iron Dwarves should get more skin tone options outside of light grey, grey, and dark grey. I think certain brown skin tones would look pretty amazing on Dark Iron Dwarves.