Rieko Kodama, one of the most important developers in the history of both Sega and the role-playing genre, has passed away at the age of 59.
As IGN reportFans recently spotted a tribute to Kodama in the credits section of the Mega Drive Mini 2. has urged Sega producer Yousuke Oskunari to confirm the sad news.
Her contribution to Sega’s catalog of classic titles and series is immeasurable. She joined the company in 1984, where she did everything from design to pixel art, and spent her early career working on series such as: Alex Kidd When fantasy zone.
She was then the original principal artist phantasy starand continued to work on the series through its sequels, being elevated to the role of director by the fourth game.
Her other notable works include Dreamcast Classic Sky of Arcadiashe again led development, but also contributed as an artist to games like the first two sonic title and Altered Beast.
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However, Kodama may be best remembered for her pioneering work as a prominent woman in game development. Everyonetraditionally not just for male audiences.
“I don’t usually think of making games strictly for women myself, but I think my RPGs will attract more female audiences.”, she once said in an interview“Violent, war-themed titles seem to attract an overwhelmingly male audience. I think you should keep it.
