Renowned composer Yoko Shimomura has revealed that the original Kingdom Hearts did not initially achieve blockbuster success in Japan, and that its uncertain reception left her questioning her future in the industry. Speaking candidly in an interview with The Guardian (via Genki_JPN), Shimomura said that after the game’s release in March 2002, which saw around 400,000 units sold at launch compared to Final Fantasy X’s 1.7 million in 2001, she faced a challenging period both personally and professionally. The composer had recently left Square (now Square Enix) and was unsure if she would continue working in game music.
Her outlook changed when she was invited to compose for Kingdom Hearts II. This opportunity was significant for two reasons. Firstly, it validated her ability to continue her career as a freelancer. Secondly, it was the first time she had been asked to return for another installment in a series, marking a milestone in her professional growth. Shimomura reflected on the deep personal meaning the Kingdom Hearts series holds for her, crediting it with playing a pivotal role in shaping her career path.
While the first game’s launch in Japan was modest, its fortunes quickly improved, particularly following its September 2002 release in North America, where it became an instant hit. The series has since grown into one of Square Enix’s most beloved franchises, blending Disney and Square Enix worlds in an action RPG format. As of March 2022, the series has shipped over 36 million copies worldwide.
Shimomura’s musical legacy extends beyond Kingdom Hearts, with acclaimed work on Final Fight, Street Fighter II, Legend of Mana, Parasite Eve, Mario & Luigi, Radiant Historia, Xenoblade Chronicles, and Final Fantasy XV. Her contributions to the industry were formally recognized in 2025 when she received the prestigious BAFTA Fellowship award, cementing her status as one of the most influential composers in video game history.
