Tomonobu Itagaki, the legendary game developer behind the iconic Dead or Alive and the 2004 Ninja Gaiden series, has passed away at the age of 58. The news was confirmed on October 16, 2025, after a heartfelt message was posted to his official Facebook account, signalling the end of an era for the gaming world.
Itagaki’s passing marks a significant loss to the industry, as he was widely celebrated for his bold creativity and technical innovations.
Itagaki’s career began with the creation of the Dead or Alive series in 1996, a fighting game franchise that quickly became famous for its fast-paced gameplay and groundbreaking mechanics.
His innovative use of a universal counter system brought a fresh, strategic depth to 3D fighting games. Dead or Alive grew into a major franchise, with spin-offs like Dead or Alive Xtreme Beach Volleyball adding new layers of entertainment. It was known not only for its excellent gameplay but also for pushing the boundaries of character design and animation.
In 2004, Itagaki revived the Ninja Gaiden series with a fresh Xbox release that shocked gamers and critics alike with its brutal difficulty and fluid, dynamic combat. Ninja Gaiden 2004 became a landmark title in action-adventure games, praised for its technical mastery and challenging gameplay that demanded precision and skill from players. This revival not only revitalised an old franchise but also set a new standard for action games and influenced many developers who followed.
Leading Team Ninja, the development team under Tecmo, Itagaki was known for his distinctive style that combined technical expertise with a willingness to innovate. Team Ninja, under his leadership, gained a reputation for delivering top-tier action and fighting games. This reputation has lingered in the industry long after he departed from Tecmo in 2008, following a legal tussle over unpaid bonuses.
Beyond his work at Tecmo, Itagaki founded Valhalla Game Studios, where he developed Devil’s Third, a game that faced its share of controversy but showcased his ongoing passion for pushing creative limits. Despite some challenges, his influence remained strong throughout his career.
Top 100 game creators of all time
Itagaki’s contributions were recognised worldwide, including being named one of IGN’s top 100 game creators of all time. His approach to gaming emphasised challenging gameplay, precision controls, and immersive player experiences.
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Fellow gaming legends and peers, including Masahiro Sakurai and Katsuhiro Harada, have expressed their respect and admiration for his legacy.
Known for his bold personality, signature sunglasses, and outspoken nature, Itagaki was a polarising yet undeniably influential figure. His design philosophy—emphasising skill, precision, and challenge—shaped a generation of action games. Tomonobu Itagaki’s work continues to inspire gamers and developers around the world.