Tetsuya Nomura Discusses Unconventional Villains in Final Fantasy

Tetsuya Nomura, a prominent figure at Square Enix, has made a name for himself by creating some of the most memorable villains in video game history. From the iconic Sephiroth to the enigmatic Genesis, Nomura's characters often sport striking designs, including leather trench coats and an abundance of belts. These unique aesthetics have become a hallmark of his work, particularly in the beloved Final Fantasy series.

In a recent interview with Young Jump, which was translated by Automaton, Nomura shared an interesting insight into his creative process. He recalled a moment from his high school days when a friend expressed frustration over playing as an unattractive protagonist in a video game. This experience left a lasting impression on Nomura, shaping his approach to character design. He stated, "When I was in high school, a classmate was playing a game where the main character wasn’t good looking. They said, 'Why do I have to be ugly in the game world too?' Which really left a strong impression on me." This revelation highlights how personal experiences can influence artistic choices.

As a result of this formative experience, Nomura aimed to create characters that are visually appealing and engaging. He designed protagonists for games like Final Fantasy 7 and Final Fantasy 10 to be cool and interesting. However, he also acknowledged the importance of relatability. He explained, "If you go out of your way to make them unconventional, you will end up with a character who is too distinct and hard to empathize with." This balance between uniqueness and relatability is crucial in character design, especially for protagonists.

Interestingly, Nomura reserves his wildest ideas for the villains. Characters like Sephiroth are crafted to be distinct and memorable, as players are expected to dislike them. This approach allows for more creative freedom, resulting in antagonists that stand out in the gaming landscape. The Final Fantasy series is known for its over-the-top characters, and even the more subdued ones, by Nomura's standards, still manage to capture attention. For instance, Cloud, the protagonist of Final Fantasy 7, is easily recognizable with his giant spiky blonde hair and an enormous sword.

As the gaming industry evolves, so too does Square Enix's strategy. The recent release of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth and the PC version of Final Fantasy 16 has prompted a shift in focus towards multiplatform releases. This change comes in response to the underperformance of these titles, indicating a need for adaptation in a competitive market.

Tetsuya Nomura's insights into character design reveal the delicate balance between creating visually striking characters and ensuring they resonate with players. His experiences and creative philosophy not only shape the villains of the Final Fantasy series but also influence the overall direction of the franchise. As gamers continue to engage with these iconic characters, it is clear that Nomura's work will leave a lasting impact on the world of video games.