Key Takeaways
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- Tomonobu Itagaki, a visionary game creator responsible for Dead or Alive, Ninja Gaiden, and Devils Third, passed away at the age of 58.
- Itagakis impact on the video game industry, particularly in the realm of 3D fighting games, was significant, with his work including the triangle counterattack system in Dead or Alive.
- Despite a contentious departure from Team Ninja, Itagakis influence remained substantial and fans are anticipating a new installment, Ninja Gaiden 4.
- In his final reflections, Itagaki expressed a deep commitment to his craft and the gaming community, expressing a desire to provide more new work for his fans before his passing.
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Tomonobu Itagaki, Visionary Game Creator (Dead or Alive, Ninja Gaiden, Devil’s Third), Passes Away at 58
The gaming community mourns the passing of Tomonobu Itagaki at 58 years old. A final message, shared posthumously through a close acquaintance, conveyed his sentiments: “My light is fading now. This post signifies my time to go. I am no longer here. My life was full of fights, always winning, but causing plenty of trouble too. I have no regrets, except for not being able to give fans new work. That truly gets to me.” Katsuhiro Harada, creator of Tekken, expressed shock upon learning of Itagaki’s death. The veteran game developers were long-time friends. Itagaki was a pivotal figure in video game history, particularly renowned for his contributions to 3D fighting games. He revolutionized the genre with the triangle counterattack system in Dead or Alive. His work also included the successful revival of Ninja Gaiden for Xbox and, later, the creation of Devil’s Third. Despite a contentious departure from Team Ninja, his impact on the industry remained significant.
Legendary Game Creator Tomonobu Itagaki (Ninja Gaiden, Dead or Alive, Devil’s Third) Leaves a Legacy with Anticipated Ninja Gaiden 4
Beyond his established contributions, fans are also anticipating a new installment, Ninja Gaiden 4, which IGN Portugal reported as “coming soon.” Itagaki’s final reflections underscore a deep commitment to his craft and the gaming community he helped shape. His original Facebook post also expressed a desire to provide more new work for his fans before his passing, leaving an enduring legacy in the industry.
In Case You Missed It
In sad news for the gaming community, Japanese developer Tomonobu Itagaki, known for his work on beloved franchises like Ninja Gaiden and Dead or Alive, passed away at the age of 58 on October 16th. Carlos Mendoza delves into the life and legacy of this influential figure in our industry, exploring how his bold style and innovative approach to combat gameplay left an indelible mark on video games. For a heartfelt tribute and insightful look back at Itagaki’s career, be sure to read Ninja Gaiden Creator Tomonobu Itagaki Passes Away at 58. For those who have been following the gaming industry closely, there’s some deeply saddening news to share. Tomonobu Itagaki, the visionary mind behind iconic series like Dead or Alive and Ninja Gaiden, has left us at the age of 58 (read more here). His legacy is profound, not just for his innovative contributions to the 3D fighting game genre but also for steering Tecmo through critical times. Be sure to take a moment to read Creator of Dead or Alive Passes Away and reflect on Itagaki’s remarkable journey and impact on gaming culture. In a saddening announcement, the gaming community has lost one of its most influential figures. Tomonobu Itagaki, creator of beloved franchises like Dead or Alive and Ninja Gaiden, passed away at the age of 58 on April 1st. Carlos Mendoza’s poignant tribute (published on October 16th) delves into Itagaki’s groundbreaking career and his indelible impact on the action game genre. From his early days at Tecmo to his more recent ventures, Itagki’s journey is a testament to his creativity and resilience. For those interested in exploring this remarkable legacy, be sure to check out Tomonobu Itagaki, Creator of Dead or Alive and Ninja Gaiden, Passes Away at 58.