Tomonobu Itagaki's Gaming Legacy Celebrated by Industry Titans
The gaming world recently united in Japan to honor Tomonobu Itagaki, the legendary creator behind iconic franchises like Dead or Alive and the 3D Ninja Gaiden series. Itagaki, who passed away in October at the age of 58, was remembered as an influential designer whose unique personality and dedication left an indelible mark on Japanese game development and the broader industry.
A Memorial Befitting a Visionary
Industry leaders gathered at a heartfelt memorial, a testament to Itagaki’s profound impact. The venue was adorned with cherished tributes, including copies of his groundbreaking games, intricate artwork, symbolic swords, and pieces of his distinctive clothing, offering attendees a poignant reflection on his career. Photos shared from the event underscored the deep respect and affection the gaming community held for him.
Itagaki's journey in game development was marked by innovation. He founded Team Ninja in the late 1990s, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of modern action and fighting games, pushing boundaries and defining genres.
Hayashi's Recollections: Purity, Coolness, and Relentless Drive
Among the many tributes, Koei Tecmo executive Yosuke Hayashi, the CEO of Koei Tecmo Games and Vice President of Koei Tecmo Holdings, shared personal anecdotes that illuminated Itagaki's character. Hayashi recounted his initial encounter with Itagaki in 2001, an assignment to his team where he was famously told there was no work for him. Hayashi recalled this period with humor, noting that for two weeks, he truly had no tasks, initially lamenting it as "the worst possible encounter" (via a Redditor translator).
Hayashi's most vivid memory, however, centered on the demanding development of Ninja Gaiden for the original Xbox between 2003 and 2004. He described the project as often chaotic and seemingly impossible, yet emphasized Itagaki’s unwavering resolve. "The two of us spent 12 hours every night checking every adjustment to the game," Hayashi revealed, highlighting Itagaki’s meticulous commitment. Reflecting on his former mentor, Hayashi fondly described Itagaki as "pure and cool," a powerful testament to the enduring respect he held for him.
Departing Words and an Enduring Philosophy
Itagaki's career saw a significant turn in 2008 when he departed Tecmo following legal disputes, although he had been acquitted of harassment charges in court the prior year. He later reached a settlement with Koei Tecmo concerning unpaid bonuses for Dead or Alive 4 and subsequently went on to establish Valhalla Game Studios, where he created Devil's Third.
Before his departure from Tecmo, Itagaki left Hayashi with a memorable directive: "Don't change the logo," a message that resonated with Hayashi for years. In what proved to be his final message to Hayashi, Itagaki shared poignant reflections on the industry: "Thank you for remembering our promise. Times have changed ... selling a million copies doesn't earn you much recognition anymore. Please keep making great products from now on."
Following his passing, a final note appeared on Itagaki's Facebook page, offering a glimpse into his perspective: "My life was a continuous battle which I kept winning. I caused a lot of trouble for others too," it read (via Facebook translation). "I take pride in having fought to the end, and having followed my convictions. I have no regrets, but I am deeply sorry that I could not deliver new works to my fans. I'm sorry. So it goes." Itagaki's legacy, defined by relentless innovation and an unyielding spirit, continues to inspire and resonate throughout the gaming world.