Tomonobu Itagaki, a renowned figure in the gaming industry and the creator of the iconic Dead or Alive series, has passed away at the age of 58. His death was confirmed through a heartfelt post on his Facebook account, alerting fans and colleagues to the loss.
Legacy of Tomonobu Itagaki
Itagaki was a pivotal force in the development community, particularly known for his work with Team Ninja at Tecmo. He joined the company in 1992, ultimately becoming its head, where he played a crucial role in producing and directing the first seven installments of Dead or Alive. His influence extended beyond this series; he was also instrumental in reviving Ninja Gaiden in 2004.
Career at Tecmo
After an illustrious career, Itagaki departed from Tecmo in 2008 following the release of Ninja Gaiden 2. His time at the company was not without controversy, culminating in a lawsuit against Tecmo for allegedly unpaid bonuses and accusations regarding the release of Dead or Alive 2 on PS2. These issues contributed to a challenging personal period for Itagaki.
Later Ventures
In 2010, Itagaki founded Valhalla Game Studios, leading to the 2015 release of Devil’s Third. He also contributed to the 3DS title Momotaro Dentetsu 2017: Tachiagare Nippon, which came out in 2016. Despite the efforts, Valhalla closed in 2021, and Itagaki subsequently started Itagaki Games, a venture that had not yet released any titles at the time of his passing.
Memorials and Remembrance
The gaming community has responded with profound sadness following his death. James Mielke, a notable figure in game development, expressed his grief online, describing Itagaki as a brother and recalling their close relationship.
Personal Reflections
In his final Facebook post, Itagaki reflected on his life and its challenges, stating, “My life has been a series of battles… No regrets.” He expressed apologies to his fans for his inability to complete new work before his death, underscoring his dedication to his craft.
- Name: Tomonobu Itagaki
- Age at Death: 58
- Career Span: 1992 – 2021
- Key Titles: Dead or Alive series, Ninja Gaiden, Devil’s Third
- Notable Ventures: Team Ninja, Valhalla Game Studios, Itagaki Games
Itagaki’s impact on the gaming landscape remains significant. He will be remembered not only for his groundbreaking games but also for his intense passion and unique persona that has left a lasting mark in the gaming world.
