“Thus, it unfolds.”
Ninja Gaiden and Dead or Alive have significantly contributed to the saga of Xbox over the last 24 years, and it’s disheartening to learn that a pivotal individual from both franchises has departed.
It has been revealed that Tomonobu Itagaki, the visionary behind the Dead or Alive series and the revival of Ninja Gaiden in 2004, recently passed away at the mere age of 58.
A message on his Facebook page seems to convey his final sentiments to the world:
“Final Thoughts
The brilliance of my life is gradually diminishing.
The fact that this note has been shared indicates that my moment has finally arrived. I am no longer part of this realm.
(I’m requesting a beloved individual to make this concluding post.)
My existence has been a continuous series of conflicts. I kept prevailing.
I’ve caused a considerable amount of distress as well.
I take pride in having adhered to my principles and fought until the end.
I hold no regrets.
Nevertheless, I am filled with sorrow for not being able to present a new creation to all my supporters. I apologize.
That is simply the reality.
Thus, it unfolds.
Itagaki Tomonobu”
Itagaki’s Dead or Alive series naturally evolved into a tremendous achievement following its initial release in 1996, and he ultimately directed seven titles in the franchise from then until 2006 – with six as a producer and director.
He also took on the roles of director and/or producer for four titles in the Ninja Gaiden series, including the 2004’s Ninja Gaiden, which surprisingly turned into an Xbox exclusive – reportedly because Itagaki himself was thoroughly impressed by Microsoft’s hardware for the original Xbox console. His concluding NG title was the Xbox 360’s Ninja Gaiden 2 in 2008.
Numerous figures from the industry have expressed their sympathies today, including Xbox’s Aaron Greenberg:
“Life is invaluable, it’s a sorrowful day to hear about the demise of Tomonobu Itagaki. I cherish memories of our collaboration during the early days of Xbox. It was always a remarkable moment when he arrived at our events donned in his iconic leather jacket like a true rockstar. Like many on the team, I grew up enjoying his creations. Among his numerous achievements within our field, he was the innovator and driving force behind the contemporary version of Ninja Gaiden – a legacy our team proudly continues to develop with Ninja Gaiden 4 in his remembrance. Genuine Ninjas never perish. Rest in peace, legend.”
From all of us here at Pure Xbox, our heartfelt condolences go out to Itagaki’s friends and family.
Fraser serves as the News Editor at Pure Xbox, where he dedicates his time to covering the most significant stories in the realm of Xbox and beyond.