Tetsuya Nomura, the creative mind behind Final Fantasy and Kingdom Hearts, recently revealed the surprisingly simple reason behind his consistently attractive character designs. This article delves into his design philosophy and its impact on his iconic creations.
Why Nomura's Heroes Look Like Supermodels
Nomura's protagonists are known for their striking resemblance to high-fashion models, a stark contrast to the fantastical worlds and intense battles they inhabit. But the reason isn't some deep artistic statement. In a recent interview with Young Jump magazine (translated by AUTOMATON), Nomura traced his approach 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 with Nomura, shaping his belief that video games should offer an escape, including an escape from the mundane realities of appearance. He confessed, "From that experience, I thought, ‘I want to be good-looking in games,’ and that’s how I create my main characters."
This isn't merely vanity, however. Nomura argues that attractive characters foster player connection and empathy. He explained that unconventional designs can create distance, hindering the player's ability to relate to the character.
Nomura's Eccentric Villains
While Nomura favors conventionally attractive heroes, he unleashes his creative exuberance on his villains. Sephiroth from Final Fantasy VII, with his dramatic flair and oversized sword, is a prime example. Similarly, the striking designs of Organization XIII in Kingdom Hearts showcase Nomura's willingness to experiment with bold, unconventional aesthetics. He noted, "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 approach. Characters like Red XIII and Cait Sith, with their unique and less conventionally attractive designs, demonstrate a youthful exuberance that ultimately contributed to the game's success. He recalled, "At the time, I was still young… so I just decided to make all the characters distinctive."
In essence, the next time you encounter a strikingly attractive hero in a Nomura game, remember the simple, relatable origin of this design philosophy – a desire to make the gaming experience visually appealing and emotionally engaging.
Nomura's Potential Retirement and the Future of Kingdom Hearts
The Young Jump interview also hinted at Nomura's potential retirement in the coming years, coinciding with the anticipated conclusion of the Kingdom Hearts series. He mentioned integrating new writers to bring fresh perspectives, stating, "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."
