Yoko Shimomura – Legendary Japanese Composer and Pianist

Yoko Shimomura is a pioneering Japanese composer and pianist whose emotionally rich, genre-defining scores have shaped the soundscape of video games for over three decades. A graduate of the Osaka College of Music, she began her career at Capcom in 1988, contributing to iconic titles such as Street Fighter II and Final Fight.

Career at Square and Iconic Works

In 1993, Shimomura joined Square (now Square Enix) and became one of the company’s most influential composers. Her work on Live A Live, Parasite Eve, Legend of Mana, and Super Mario RPG showcased her unique ability to blend classical, orchestral, and electronic influences into deeply emotional soundscapes.

Kingdom Hearts and International Recognition

Her magnum opus, Kingdom Hearts, represents a long-running collaboration between Square Enix and Disney, blending cinematic orchestration with heartfelt melodies that have captivated fans worldwide. The series earned Shimomura international acclaim and solidified her reputation as one of the most important figures in video game music.

Freelance Era and Continued Influence

In 2002, Shimomura became a freelance composer and founded Midiplex, continuing her creative journey across major franchises such as Mario & Luigi, Xenoblade Chronicles, and Final Fantasy XV. Beyond video games, she has also contributed to independent and orchestral projects, further expanding her artistic reach.

Awards and Legacy

In 2025, Yoko Shimomura received the BAFTA Fellowship, becoming the first video game composer ever honored with the award — a historic recognition of her groundbreaking impact on interactive music and her advocacy for women in the gaming industry.

Notable Works:
– Street Fighter II & VI (1991 & 2025)
– Parasite Eve (1998)
– Kingdom Hearts Series (2002 3 present)
– Xenoblade Chronicles (2010)
– Final Fantasy XV (2016)

Location:
🇯🇵 – Tokyo