Yuji Horii, the legendary creator of the Dragon Quest series, has been awarded the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette, by the Japanese government, marking the first time a video game designer has received this prestigious honor. The recognition was announced as part of Japan’s Autumn 2025 Decorations, a biannual event that highlights individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation’s cultural, social, and economic life.
Horii, now 71, is celebrated as one of the most influential figures in the history of Japanese gaming. Since the release of the original Dragon Quest in 1986, his work has shaped the role-playing game (RPG) genre and inspired countless developers worldwide. The series, often referred to as the “grandfather of JRPGs,” has sold over 85 million copies globally and remains a cornerstone of Japanese pop culture. By receiving this award, Horii joins a distinguished group of honorees recognized for advancing Japan’s cultural heritage.
The Order of the Rising Sun, established in 1875, is one of Japan’s highest civilian honors. The Gold Rays with Rosette distinction is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional achievements in their fields, particularly in promoting Japanese culture and international goodwill. Horii’s recognition underscores the growing acknowledgment of video games as a legitimate cultural and artistic medium, on par with literature, film, and traditional art forms.
In his acceptance remarks, Horii expressed gratitude to the many collaborators who helped bring Dragon Quest to life, as well as to the fans who have supported the franchise for nearly four decades. He emphasized that the award was not just a personal achievement but a testament to the collective efforts of the teams at Enix, Square Enix, and the broader gaming community. His humility reflects the collaborative spirit that has defined the series’ enduring success.
The 2025 Autumn Honors list included nearly 4,000 recipients across various disciplines, but Horii’s recognition stood out as a landmark moment for the gaming industry. Alongside him, other cultural figures such as manga legend Go Nagai, creator of Mazinger Z and Cutie Honey, were also honored, highlighting the government’s broader embrace of contemporary Japanese pop culture as a vital part of the nation’s identity.
Industry observers note that Horii’s award could pave the way for greater recognition of video game creators in Japan and abroad. While the medium has long been a dominant force in entertainment, official honors of this magnitude have been rare. By elevating Horii’s contributions, the Japanese government has signaled that video games are not only a commercial success but also a cultural treasure worthy of preservation and celebration.
