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Takaya Imamura

Star Fox's visual architect

Takaya Imamura designed the characters and worlds of Star Fox, F-Zero, and other Nintendo franchises, creating some of gaming's most distinctive sci-fi aesthetics.

SNESN64gamecubewii artistdesignernintendo 1989–2021

Overview

The look of Nintendo’s future. Imamura joined Nintendo as an artist and became the visual identity behind Star Fox and F-Zero. Fox McCloud, Captain Falcon, the Blue Falcon racer—his designs defined Nintendo’s science fiction. He also contributed to Zelda as art director before retiring in 2021.

Fast facts

  • Born: 1966.
  • Company: Nintendo (1989-2021).
  • Specialty: Character and vehicle design.
  • Retired: 2021.

Character creations

CharacterFranchise
Fox McCloudStar Fox
Falco LombardiStar Fox
Captain FalconF-Zero
Samurai GorohF-Zero

Franchise contributions

SeriesRole
Star FoxCharacter design
F-ZeroArt direction
Zelda: Majora’s MaskArt direction
Steel DiverDirector

Design style

ElementCharacteristic
Sci-fiBold, angular
VehiclesSleek, functional
CharactersAnthropomorphic
ColoursVibrant, striking

Legacy

ImpactNote
F-Zero aestheticDefined futuristic racing
Star Fox castIconic ensemble
Smash BrosCharacters endure
Retirement32-year career

See also