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 characters' striking good looks. This article delves into his unconventional design philosophy.

Why Nomura's Heroes Look Like Supermodels

Nomura's protagonists consistently resemble high-fashion models, a stark contrast to the perilous worlds they inhabit. But why this consistent aesthetic choice? It's not about some profound artistic statement; it's far more relatable.

A High School Revelation

In a recent Young Jump interview (translated by AUTOMATON), Nomura traced his design philosophy back to high school. A classmate's simple question – "Why do I have to be ugly in the game world too?" – resonated deeply, shaping his approach to JRPG character design. This sparked Nomura's desire to create visually appealing protagonists, offering players an appealing escape in the game world. He stated: "From that experience, I thought, ‘I want to be good-looking in games,’ and that’s how I create my main characters."

Empathy Through Aesthetics

This isn't mere vanity. Nomura believes visual appeal fosters player connection and empathy. He explained that unconventional designs can create characters that are too distinct, hindering player identification.

Eccentricity Reserved for Villains

Nomura doesn't shy away from eccentric designs entirely; he reserves them for antagonists. Characters like Sephiroth (Final Fantasy VII) and Organization XIII (Kingdom Hearts) exemplify this, showcasing his unrestrained creativity in villain design. He noted the importance of the interplay between inner and outer appearances in creating memorable villains.

A Youthful Experiment in Final Fantasy VII

Reflecting on Final Fantasy VII, Nomura admitted to a more unrestrained approach in his early career. Characters like Red XIII and Cait Sith, with their distinctive and unconventional designs, highlight this youthful experimentation. However, he emphasizes the meticulous attention to detail, even in seemingly minor design choices, which contribute to the character's personality and the game's narrative.

A Simple Reason, a Lasting Impact

The next time you encounter a strikingly handsome hero in a Nomura game, remember the simple comment from a high school friend that shaped the visual landscape of countless JRPGs. 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 hinted at Nomura's possible retirement in the coming years, coinciding with the Kingdom Hearts series nearing its conclusion. He's actively incorporating new writers to inject fresh perspectives, aiming for Kingdom Hearts IV to be a fitting conclusion to the series.