Square Enix Designed 'Final Fantasy' Characters to be Attractive

Tetsuya Nomura, the mind behind Final Fantasy and Kingdom Hearts character designs, recently revealed the surprisingly simple reason behind his characters' consistently attractive appearances. It's not a deep philosophical statement about beauty or edginess; it boils down to a relatable high school experience.

The "Good-Looking in Games" Philosophy

In an interview with Young Jump magazine (translated by AUTOMATON), Nomura recounted a classmate's insightful question: "Why do I have to be ugly in the game world too?" This casual remark resonated deeply, shaping his design philosophy. He wanted to create characters players would want to be, leading to his focus on aesthetically pleasing protagonists. This isn't about vanity, but about fostering player connection and empathy. Unconventional designs, he argues, can hinder this connection.

Villains: A Canvas for Eccentricity

Nomura's design restraint is reserved for heroes. His villains, however, are where his creative energy truly flourishes. Characters like Sephiroth (Final Fantasy VII) and Organization XIII (Kingdom Hearts) showcase bold, outlandish designs, emphasizing the synergy between visual and personality. Nomura explicitly stated his preference for this approach, highlighting how the unique personalities of these villains enhance their distinctive designs.

Early Days: A Creative Free-for-All

Reflecting on Final Fantasy VII's character designs, Nomura admitted to a more unrestrained approach in his younger years. Characters like Red XIII and Cait Sith highlight this early creative freedom, contributing to the game's unique charm. However, even then, he meticulously considered design details, believing they should contribute to the character's personality and the overall narrative.

Nomura's Potential Retirement and Kingdom Hearts' Future

The Young Jump interview also touched on Nomura's potential retirement in the coming years, coinciding with the Kingdom Hearts series nearing its conclusion. He's actively integrating new writers to bring fresh perspectives, aiming for a satisfying conclusion in Kingdom Hearts IV. The game is envisioned as a pivotal step towards the series' grand finale.