The news of Akira Toriyama's passing at the age of 68 has resonated deeply with fans globally. Known predominantly for his creation of the Dragon Ball series, Toriyama's distinctive art style has been a foundation for the vibrant world of manga and gaming. Generations have found solace in the adventures of Goku and his friends, with afternoons spent engrossed in the intense energy projected by the characters' large eyes, exaggerated expressions, and the striking use of color. From the early beginnings in Dr. Slump to the vast landscapes of Sand Land, Toriyama's work continues to enchant fans.
For many, the initial glimpse into Toriyama's world came through Dragon Ball, which captivated with its dynamic storytelling and robust characters. But beyond this well-known series, he extended his influence into the realm of video games. His long-time editor at Weekly Shonen Jump, Kazuhiko Torishima, recommended Toriyama to Yuji Horii, who sought an artist for a new game at Enix—this collaboration led to the conception of Dragon Quest.
Dragon Quest, with Toriyama's artwork, is a testament to the seamless blend of illustration and fantasy, creating a palpable sense of adventure. The hero of Dragon Quest III symbolizes bravery in bright colors and daring hairdos, while the female protagonist of Dragon Quest IV became an iconic design with her '80s curls and bodysuit. Each character designed by Toriyama, such as Bianca from Dragon Quest V or Sylvando from Dragon Quest XI, resonated with distinct personalities reflective of the human spirit.
Yet, it's not just the characters that embody Toriyama's unique touch; the series' monster designs are equally telling. Creatures like the Great Sabrecat or the axe-wielding Hacksaurus bring Toriyama's playful yet authentic vision to life. And perhaps the most enduring symbol is the Slime, a character that stands in contrast to his typically serious male designs with its simplicity and charm.
Toriyama's ingenuity didn't stop there. As part of the celebrated 'Dream Team,' he worked on Chrono Trigger alongside titans such as Hironobu Sakaguchi and Nobuo Uematsu. Within this RPG, he crafted a multiplicity of character designs and environments, facilitating a game that would traverse time itself. Characters like Robo, with its slightly rusted and scratched appearance, and the mystical Magus, with his pointed features and imposing cape, are testaments to Toriyama's capacity to convey story and emotion through art.
The most touching illustration may be the campfire scene from Chrono Trigger—as depicted in the game's pixel art and the official Player's Guide—showing the party resting in the dangerous, dark forest, illuminated by the fire's glow. This scene epitomizes Toriyama's ability to capture both warmth and threat through his palette choices.
His influence stretched far beyond his own creations, inspiring giants in the gaming industry. Ken Sugimori's early work on Pokémon echoes the vibrant essence of Toriyama's Dragon Ball and Dragon Quest. Even Nintendo's Mario owes a movement inspiration to Dr. Slump's Arale, acknowledged by Shigeru Miyamoto. Sega's famous Sonic the Hedgehog, too, has hints of Dragon Ball Z's Super Saiyan transformations, emphasizing Toriyama's broad impact on the character design in video games.
The loss of Akira Toriyama undoubtedly leaves a void in the hearts of many. His creations did more than shape the landscape of manga and video games; they inspired countless other creators and provided a blueprint for storytelling through visual art. To honor his legacy, fans may return to his extensive works, experiencing the joy and adventure his art consistently brought to life. Whether through reading his manga or playing games like Dragon Quest, Chrono Trigger, or Blue Dragon, his artistic prowess will continue to engage and inspire. Toriyama's art made the fantastical relatable, the action understandable, and the imaginative tangible, ensuring his place in history as an artist who could capture the essence of character and story like no other.
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