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

Final Fantasy and Kingdom Hearts creator, Tetsuya Nomura, 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.

Nomura's Striking Character Designs: A Simple Explanation

The "Good-Looking in Games" Philosophy

Tetsuya Nomura's protagonists often resemble high-fashion models, a stark contrast to the fantastical worlds and epic battles they inhabit. But why this consistent aesthetic choice? It's not a deep artistic statement or a deliberate attempt at edginess. Instead, Nomura attributes his design philosophy to a high school classmate's insightful question: "Why do I have to be ugly in the game world too?"

This seemingly simple question resonated deeply with Nomura, shaping his belief that video games should offer an escape, including an escape from the mundane. He explained in a recent Young Jump interview (translated by AUTOMATON), "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 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.

However, Nomura doesn't shy away from eccentric designs entirely. He reserves his most outlandish creations for antagonists. Sephiroth from Final Fantasy VII, with his towering sword and dramatic flair, perfectly exemplifies this approach. Similarly, the striking members of Kingdom Hearts' Organization XIII showcase Nomura's unrestrained creativity when applied to villains.

"Yes, I like Organization XIII," Nomura 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 admits to a more unrestrained approach. Characters like Red XIII and Cait Sith, with their unique and memorable designs, highlight his youthful creative energy. He notes the importance of detail in his designs, stating that even minute choices contribute to a character's personality and the overall narrative.

In essence, the next time you encounter a strikingly attractive hero in a Nomura game, remember the simple yet profound influence of a high school classmate's question. As Nomura might say, why save the world if you can't look good doing it?

Nomura's Future and the Kingdom Hearts Conclusion

The Young Jump interview also touched upon Nomura's potential retirement and the future of Kingdom Hearts. He hinted at an upcoming conclusion to the series and his incorporation of new writers to bring fresh perspectives. Nomura stated his intention for Kingdom Hearts IV to set the stage for a satisfying finale.