Tetsuya Nomura, the visionary behind Final Fantasy and Kingdom Hearts character designs, recently revealed the surprisingly simple reason behind his protagonists' striking good looks. It's not some profound artistic statement; it's far more relatable.
The "Good-Looking in Games" Philosophy
Nomura's 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, sparking Nomura's desire to create visually appealing heroes. As he explains, video games offer an escape, and he wants players to enjoy a visually pleasing experience. He believes that attractive characters foster a stronger player connection and empathy. Unconventional designs, he argues, can create distance.
This isn't about vanity, but about enhancing player engagement. Nomura reserves his more eccentric designs for antagonists, allowing their unique appearances to complement their personalities. Sephiroth from Final Fantasy VII and Organization XIII from Kingdom Hearts serve as prime examples of this approach. The wild designs of these villains perfectly match their personalities and add to the game's overall impact.
Nomura admits to a more unrestrained approach in his earlier work on Final Fantasy VII, where characters like Red XIII and Cait Sith showcased his youthful creative energy. Even then, however, he meticulously considered every design detail, ensuring that these elements contributed to the character's personality and the game's narrative.
So, the next time you admire the striking appearance of a Nomura protagonist, remember the simple, relatable origin of this design choice. It's a testament to the power of wanting to look good while saving the world.
Nomura's Potential Retirement and the Future of Kingdom Hearts
In the same interview, Nomura hinted at his possible retirement in the coming years, as the Kingdom Hearts series approaches its conclusion. He's actively integrating new writers to bring fresh perspectives, aiming to create a satisfying conclusion for Kingdom Hearts IV. The game is designed to set the stage for the series' grand finale.
