Final Fantasy Characters Sizzle with Intentional Allure

Tetsuya Nomura's Character Design Philosophy: A Simple Reason for Striking Looks

Tetsuya Nomura, the renowned designer behind Final Fantasy and Kingdom Hearts characters, recently revealed the surprisingly simple reason behind his consistently attractive protagonist designs. In an interview with Young Jump magazine, Nomura traced his aesthetic choices back to a high school classmate's insightful question: "Why do I have to be ugly in the game world too?" This seemingly casual remark resonated deeply, prompting Nomura's decision to prioritize attractive character designs.

"From that experience, I thought, ‘I want to be good-looking in games,’ and that’s how I create my main characters," Nomura explained.

This isn't merely vanity; Nomura believes visual appeal fosters player connection and empathy. Unconventional designs, he argues, can create distance and hinder relatability. However, this doesn't mean he avoids eccentric designs entirely. Nomura reserves his boldest, most outlandish creations for antagonists. The striking visuals of Sephiroth (Final Fantasy VII) and Organization XIII (Kingdom Hearts) serve as prime examples of this approach.

"Yes, I like Organization XIII," he stated. "I don’t think the designs of Organization XIII would be that unique without their personalities. That’s because I feel that it’s only when their inner and outer appearances come together that they become that kind of character."

Reflecting on his earlier work in Final Fantasy VII, Nomura admitted to a more unrestrained creative process. Characters like Red XIII and Cait Sith showcased a wilder, less-refined aesthetic. Yet, this youthful exuberance contributed to the game's unique charm.

"At the time, I was still young… so I just decided to make all the characters distinctive," Nomura reminisced. "I am very particular about the basis (for character designs) right down to the smallest details, like why this part is this color, and why this is a certain shape. These details become part of the character’s personality, which in the end become part of the game and its story."

In essence, the striking visuals of Nomura's heroes stem from a desire to make the gaming experience more enjoyable and relatable, a testament to the power of a simple yet profound observation.

Nomura's Potential Retirement and the Future of Kingdom Hearts

The interview also touched upon Nomura's potential retirement in the coming years, coinciding with the nearing conclusion of the Kingdom Hearts series. He highlighted the integration of new writers to bring fresh perspectives, suggesting a planned transition. Nomura stated, "I only have a few years left until I retire, and it’s looking like: will I retire or will I finish the series first? However, I'm making Kingdom Hearts IV with the intention of it being a story that leads to the conclusion."