Remembering Tomonobu Itagaki: The Legendary Creator of Dead or Alive and Ninja Gaiden 2004

Tomonobu Itagaki, the legendary creator of the Dead or Alive series and the visionary behind the 2004 Ninja Gaiden, has sadly passed away at 58. The news broke on his Facebook page and was confirmed by well-known figures in the gaming community. Details regarding the cause of death have not been disclosed.

In a poignant message he prepared for future sharing, Itagaki reflected on his life. He described it as a series of battles but expressed no regrets. He apologized to fans for not being able to share new projects: “I just feel so sorry to all my fans for not being able to deliver my new work.”

Itagaki’s career began at Tecmo in 1992, where he became head of Team Ninja. He produced seven Dead or Alive games and played a significant role in other Tecmo titles. Known for his signature sunglasses, he left Tecmo in 2008 after a turbulent exit, which included a lawsuit over unpaid bonuses. Following this, he founded Valhalla Game Studios, which released Devil’s Third in 2015, among other titles. Unfortunately, Valhalla closed in 2021, and Itagaki launched Itagaki Games, which has yet to release a game.

Despite the controversies in his career, Itagaki remained a vibrant figure in the gaming world. His quirky personality shone through during development and marketing for Devil’s Third.

Many in the gaming industry are mourning his loss. James Mielke, co-founder of BitSummit, shared on social media, “Today I lost someone who was truly like a brother to me… Anyone who knows me knows how close we were. RIP, senpai. You will always be a ninja.”

In recent years, gaming has seen a shift towards more inclusive and diverse narratives. The impact of creators like Itagaki is still felt, as they shaped the landscape we see today. His unique voice and bold ideas challenged norms and kept players engaged. The legacy continues as fans remember his contributions and mourn his passing.

Overall, Tomonobu Itagaki leaves behind a mixed legacy of groundbreaking creativity and personal controversy, but his influence on the gaming industry is undeniable. His life’s work will continue to resonate with both fans and game developers for years to come. For further insight into the evolution of gaming and the impact of influential figures like Itagaki, check out reports from sources like The Verge.

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