Legendary Game Creator Tomonobu Itagaki Passes Away

Tokyo, Japan — Tomonobu Itagaki, the influential creator and game director, has died, according to a post on his Facebook profile confirmed by Wario64. The cause of his death has not yet been disclosed.

Itagaki’s career began at Tecmo in 1992, where he led Team Ninja for 16 years. He gained prominence with the creation of the Dead or Alive 3D fighting game series in 1996, known for its groundbreaking animation, controls, and innovative gameplay features. The series has been noted for its distinctive portrayal of female fighters.

In 2004, he produced a reboot of Ninja Gaiden for the Xbox, which received widespread acclaim for its engaging action and challenging gameplay. Itagaki was recognized not only for his creative achievements but also for his outspoken personality. He often relished taking on criticism and was known for his strong opinions about other 3D fighting games.

In a translated final message, Itagaki shared sentiments of pride in his life’s work but expressed regret for not being able to deliver new projects to his fans. James Mielke, who confirmed Itagaki’s passing, highlighted his rebellious spirit and significant contributions to the gaming industry, assuring that gamers worldwide would remember his impact.

As gaming enthusiasts mourn his loss, the legacy of Tomonobu Itagaki remains deeply ingrained in the history of video games, particularly through franchises like Dead or Alive and Ninja Gaiden.