Final Fantasy Characters Are Hot on Purpose Because of a Simple Line

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 the JRPG landscape.

Nomura's Protagonists: Runway Ready for Role-Playing

Why are Nomura's heroes so strikingly handsome? It's not some deep artistic statement about inner beauty or a deliberate attempt at edginess. The answer, as he shared in a Young Jump interview (translated by AUTOMATON), is refreshingly relatable. Inspired by a high school classmate's question – "Why do I have to be ugly in the game world too?" – Nomura decided he wanted to be good-looking in games, and that became his guiding principle for protagonist design.

This isn't mere vanity; Nomura believes visual appeal fosters player connection and empathy. Unconventional designs, he argues, can create characters too distinct for players to easily relate to.

Saving the Eccentricity for Villains

This doesn't mean Nomura avoids bold designs entirely. He reserves his most extravagant creations for antagonists. Sephiroth from Final Fantasy VII, with his towering sword and dramatic flair, is a prime example. Similarly, the members of Organization XIII in Kingdom Hearts showcase Nomura's unrestrained creativity, where personality and appearance perfectly intertwine.

A Younger Nomura: Unbridled Creativity

Looking back at Final Fantasy VII, Nomura admits to a more freewheeling approach in his younger years. Characters like Red XIII and Cait Sith, with their unique and unconventional designs, highlight this early creative exuberance. These bold choices, however, contributed significantly to the game's success. Nomura emphasizes the importance of attention to detail, believing that even the smallest design choices contribute to a character's personality and the overall narrative.

The Simple Truth: Looking Good While Saving the World

So, the next time you're playing a Nomura game and marvel at your hero's model-esque appearance, remember the high school comment that sparked it all. As Nomura might say, why be a hero if you can't look good doing it?

Nomura's Potential Retirement and the Future of Kingdom Hearts

The same interview also hinted at Nomura's potential retirement in the coming years, coinciding with the anticipated conclusion of the Kingdom Hearts series. He's actively incorporating new writers into the Kingdom Hearts team to introduce fresh perspectives, aiming to create a conclusive narrative in Kingdom Hearts IV.