Aya Kyogoku and Hisashi Nogami, the Humans Behind Animal Crossing

Imagine inhabiting an idyllic island where you can garden, fish, decorate your home, go to a concert or museum, or try your hand at a stock market where trades are conducted in turnips. Want to see what your friends are up to? Just hop over to their islands. If this sounds to you like a lovely respite from the hellscape that was 2020, you’re not alone: The virtual-life simulation was so popular it caused a run on Nintendo’s Switch consoles, leading to a global supply shortage that wasn’t resolved until the fall.

Kyogoku, one of the only female game directors in Japan, has long credited the success of the series to the diverse team behind it; they’ve broadened the game’s appeal beyond the typical teenage-male demographic. Part of the draw is making fun aesthetic choices, whether they’re the statues decorating your house or your clothing. That’s thanks to Nogami, who’s earned credits on other major titles including 2006’s Wii Sports. The massive hit Nogami and Kyogoku created has helped Nintendo shares climb about 35% this year.