**Remembering Tomonobu Itagaki: A Legend in Game Design**
Tomonobu Itagaki, a legendary figure in the world of game design, passed away this week at the age of 58. Known as one of the foundational pillars behind what we now recognize as Team Ninja, Itagaki’s impact on the gaming industry is profound and lasting.
Starting his career at Tecmo in the early 1990s, Itagaki’s first credited work was as a Graphic Engineer on *Tecmo Super Bowl*. He quickly rose to prominence after creating the *Dead or Alive* series, directing most of its installments up to *Dead or Alive Xtreme 2*. His creative vision extended beyond fighting games; Itagaki also led the successful 2004 reboot of *Ninja Gaiden* and was deeply involved in the series through the release of *Ninja Gaiden 2* in 2008.
In 2008, Itagaki departed from Tecmo amid controversy, filing a lawsuit against the company and its president over unpaid bonuses and what he described as unfair business practices, particularly concerning the release of *Dead or Alive 2*. Despite this setback, he continued to contribute to the gaming world, joining Valhalla Games where he directed the cult classic *Devil’s Third*.
Eventually, Itagaki founded his own studio, Itagaki Games, where he was reportedly working on his latest project before his untimely passing. His final message to fans and the gaming community remains a testament to his passion and dedication.
Tomonobu Itagaki’s legacy as a rockstar force in the Japanese gaming industry will endure. His innovative spirit and creative genius have inspired countless developers and players worldwide. He will be remembered not only for the iconic games he created and directed but also for his bold and uncompromising approach to game design.
Rest in peace, Tomonobu Itagaki. Your contributions have left an indelible mark on the world of gaming.
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146378/tomonobu-itagaki-obituary-dead-or-alive-ninja-gaiden
