Yoichi Kotabe was born on September 15, 1936 in Taipei, Taiwan. He later moved to Japan where he would go on to become a renowned animator and character designer. Kotabe attended the Tokyo University of the Arts where he honed his skills and passion for animation.
As a child, Kotabe was influenced by the animated film "Momotarō no Umiwashi", which sparked his interest in the world of animation. This early fascination would later shape his career as he delved into the world of creating characters and bringing them to life on screen.
Kotabe's career took off when he began working with Nintendo as a character designer, illustrator, and supervisor. He is best known for his work on iconic franchises such as Super Mario and Pokémon, where his creative vision and talent brought beloved characters to audiences around the world.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Kotabe is a family man who hails from Japan. In 1963, he married Reiko Okuyama, a partnership that has supported and enriched his life throughout his career.
Throughout his career, Kotabe has had the privilege of working alongside esteemed individuals in the industry, including legendary figure Shigeru Miyamoto. Their collaborations have resulted in some of the most iconic and memorable characters in the world of gaming and animation.
Yoichi Kotabe's contributions to the world of animation have left an indelible mark on the industry, inspiring generations of artists and fans alike. His creativity, talent, and dedication have cemented his legacy as a true pioneer and visionary in the field of animation.
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