The men behind Final Fantasy XII

Features
By published

Ready to step into the world of Ivalice? Find out the details you need to know before you go

Character Designer Akihiko Yoshida is best-known for his distinctive work on Final Fantasy Tactics, which blended the no-nose style of classic Final Fantasy characters with a hyper-detailed look. Final Fantasy XII has given him his biggest chance yet to creatively stretch his wings, and here, he shares his thoughts about creatingthe characters and art for the storied series:

Can you guide us through your thought process as you create a new character?

Matsuno-san gave me a few pointers and I started on the roughs. We then work on the textures and models from the roughs. It's not something that is finished on paper, but the character is finally finished when expressions are made on the character models and the voice actors give them a voice.

Do you ever work using 3D modeling programs, or do you mostly stick with 2D drawings?

I was the chief on the environment besides working on the character designs so I did use some 3D modeling programs. Creating characters roughs and textures was all work done in 2D.

Some minor adjustments had to be made, but in the end I'm really happy with the small changes as they've really helped enhance Ashe's character.

Which character design is your favorite, and why?

My personal favorite is Balthier, mainly because he was inspired by an athlete that I was a fan of.