On the topic of good design, it made me consider the importance of appeal in character, especially animal designs, in games, as well as other media franchises. To that end, I found the article by Alex Daud Briggs for gamerbraves.com, named “The Importance of Good Monster Design In Pokemon, Digimon and Other Games”.
Monster design is a cornerstone of many beloved video game franchises, from Pokémon and Digimon to Final Fantasy and Shin Megami Tensei. These creatures are more than just enemies or collectibles—they are the heart and soul of their respective worlds, shaping the tone, identity, and emotional connection players have with the games. This article explores how iconic franchises use monster design to create memorable experiences and why these designs are so crucial to the success of RPGs and monster-collecting games.
As the biggest media franchise in the world, Pokémon has set a high standard for monster design. Overseen by artist Ken Sugimori, Pokémon designs are intentionally crafted to be approachable and memorable. Sugimori emphasizes the importance of balance, often adding “uncool” or quirky elements to make creatures stand out. For example, Oshawott, an otter-like Pokémon, has three freckles on its cheeks. While removing them might make Oshawott cuter, the freckles add a unique touch that makes the design more memorable. This approach reflects the role of Pokémon in their universe: they are meant to feel like natural, everyday animals with exaggerated, cartoonish features. By taking a simple theme—like an otter using a shell as a weapon—and amplifying it, Pokémon designs feel both unique and grounded in their world. This balance of familiarity and creativity has helped Pokémon remain a cultural phenomenon for decades.
In contrast to Pokémon’s friendly and approachable designs, Digimon takes a darker, more surreal approach. Designed primarily by Kenji Watanabe, Digimon range from cute mascot-like creatures to humanoid warriors and grotesque demons. Inspired by 90s American comics, Digimon designs often feature belts, knives, tattoos, and guns, giving them a distinct edge.
One standout example is Vademon, a Digimon based on 50s-style space aliens. Its giant brain-like head, wiry body, and beefy arms make it both bizarre and unforgettable. This design philosophy aligns with the Digimon universe, where these creatures are intelligent beings capable of speech, higher thinking, and even creating technology. The use of weapons and armor reinforces their identity as more than just wild animals—they are complex, dangerous, and deeply integrated into their world.
Monster design isn’t limited to monster-collecting games. Many RPGs use their bestiaries to establish the tone and identity of their worlds. For example, Dragon Quest’s iconic Slimes, with their cartoonish smiles, set the stage for a lighthearted adventure, while Final Fantasy’s larger-than-life beasts like Chocobos and Cactuars emphasize the epic fantasy elements of the series.
The upcoming Final Fantasy XVI is doubling down on this tradition by spotlighting summons—recurring creatures that embody the grandeur and drama of the franchise. Similarly, Shin Megami Tensei and Yo-kai Watch draw on mythology and pop culture to create monsters that feel both familiar and fresh. These designs not only enhance the gameplay but also help players connect with the world and its lore.
Why Monster Design Matters. At its core, good monster design is about creating a lasting impression. Whether it’s the quirky charm of a Pokémon, the edgy intensity of a Digimon, or the mythical grandeur of a Final Fantasy summon, these creatures define the tone and identity of their games. They are the constant elements that tie together different entries in a series, providing a sense of continuity and nostalgia for long-time fans.
Moreover, monsters are often the first thing players encounter in a game, setting the stage for the adventure ahead. A well-designed monster can evoke emotions, tell a story, and immerse players in the world. In games like Pokémon and Digimon, where the monsters are the main attraction, their designs are even more critical. They need to be visually appealing, thematically consistent, and memorable enough to stand out in a crowded field of competitors.
From Pokémon’s balanced cuteness to Digimon’s surreal edge, monster design plays a pivotal role in shaping the identity and success of video game franchises. These creatures are more than just pixels on a screen—they are the heart of the worlds they inhabit, the companions on our journeys, and the adversaries that challenge us. As games continue to evolve, the importance of good monster design remains constant.
