Yoko Shimomura to receive BAFTA Fellowship

Japanese composer and pianist Yoko Shimomura will receive a BAFTA scholarship at the Bafta game Awards on April 8, 2025.

Shimomura will receive praise in recognition for his work that composed franchise scores, including Kingdom Hearts, Final Fantasy 15 and Xenoblade Chronicles.

He graduated from Osaka Junior College of Music, Department of Instrumental Music (piano), and is now an independent composer after working for developers, including Capcom and Square Enix.

“It is a real privilege to honor Yoko Shimomura with the Bafta community this year,” said the CEO of Bafta, Jane Millichip.

“A pioneer in video game music, pianist and composer, Yoko has created unforgettable sound bands for so many beloved games and paved the way for women in the industry at a time when he was overwhelmingly dominated by men.

“His innovative work has already inspired countless artists and will continue to resonate for generations.”

Last year, PlayStation Shuhei Yoshida veteran received a Bafta scholarship. In 2021, the Director of Media Molecule, Siobhan Reddy, was the first woman to receive the prize.

The 21st Bafta game Awards award will take place on April 8, 2025 in Queen Elizabeth Hall in London, and will be broadcast on Twitch. The Senua Saga of Ninja Theory: Hellblade 2 has been nominated for 11 awards.