Final Fantasy's Hot Character Design: A Simple Explanation

Tetsuya Nomura, the creative mind behind Final Fantasy and Kingdom Hearts, recently revealed the surprisingly simple reason behind his characters' striking good looks. In a Young Jump interview (translated by AUTOMATON), Nomura confessed that his design philosophy stems from a high school classmate's insightful question: "Why do I have to be ugly in the game world, too?" This casual remark resonated deeply, shaping Nomura's belief that video games should offer an appealing escape. He strives to create protagonists who are visually appealing, believing this fosters player connection and empathy. Unconventional designs, he explains, can hinder this crucial connection.

This isn't mere vanity; Nomura sees attractive characters as a bridge to player engagement. He maintains that overly unique designs can create distance, making it harder for players to relate. However, this doesn't mean Nomura shies away from eccentric aesthetics altogether. He reserves his boldest, most outlandish designs for antagonists, showcasing this flair in iconic villains like Sephiroth from Final Fantasy VII and Organization XIII from Kingdom Hearts. He emphasizes that the unique personalities of these villains are intrinsically linked to their striking visual designs, creating a cohesive whole.

Reflecting on his earlier work in Final Fantasy VII, Nomura admits to a more unrestrained approach. Characters like Red XIII and Cait Sith, with their distinctive appearances, highlight a youthful exuberance that ultimately contributed to the game's success. He emphasizes the meticulous detail in his design process, with each color and shape contributing to a character's personality and the overall narrative.

The interview also touched upon Nomura's potential retirement in the coming years, coinciding with the nearing conclusion of the Kingdom Hearts series. He's actively integrating new writers to ensure the series' future, stating his intention for Kingdom Hearts IV to be a pivotal step towards the franchise's grand finale. The article concludes by encouraging readers to explore a related piece detailing Kingdom Hearts IV's reboot and its path towards the series' conclusion.