Born in 1972, Junichi Masuda began his musical journey at a young age, mastering the piano and guitar. Joining Game Freak, he rose to become a composer, marking his debut with the iconic soundtracks of Pokémon Red and Green in 1996.
Over the years, Masuda has innovated video game music, using unique instruments and compositional techniques to keep the Pokémon soundtracks fresh and engaging. His use of traditional Japanese instruments like the shamisen is a notable example.
Aside from his musical prowess, Masuda has also contributed significantly as a game director in the development of various Pokémon games. His ability to blend captivating music with immersive gameplay experiences has been instrumental in the franchise’s success.
Masuda’s work continues to inspire a new generation of composers, serving as a testament to the power of music in video games and its ability to evoke emotion, create immersion, and enhance gameplay experiences.