We’ve learned some tragic news – Tomonobu Itagaki, known for creating the Dead or Alive series and reviving the Ninja Gaiden series, has died.

Itagaki posted news of his death via his Facebook page, which has been confirmed by outlets such as Famitsu and close friends in the development community. He was 58 years old.

While working at Tecmo, Itagaki oversaw the development of the Ninja Gaiden reboot games and created the Dead or Alive series. He also launched Team Ninja as their premiere in-house brand, which took over development of those series.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Team Ninja’s first leader, Tomonobu Itagaki,” his former studio said. “We will carry on the philosophy and creativity that Itagaki-san began and continue to create games that many gamers will enjoy. Our deepest condolences for his loss.”

Itagaki left Tecmo in 2008 and launched Valhalla Game Studios with several other former staff. They later released the stylish action game Devil’s Third, for the Wii U. 

The stylish director, known for wearing his signature leather jacket and sunglasses (even while indoors, or at night) eventually dissolved Valhalla Game Studios and shortly afterwards resurfaced with Itagaki Games. This was Itagaki’s final attempt at returning to the game’s industry.

Here is the full message posted by Itagaki on his Facebook page:

Final Words

The flame of my life is finally about to be extinguished.
The fact that this message has been posted means that time has finally come. I am no longer in this world.
(I have entrusted this final post to someone important.)
My life was a continuous battle. I kept winning.
I caused a lot of trouble for others too.
I take pride in having fought to the end, following my convictions.
I have no regrets.
Only, I am filled with regret that I could not deliver new works to all my fans. I’m sorry.
That’s how it is.
So it goes.

Itagaki Tomonobu

Rest in Peace Itagaki-san, we’ll miss your neverending spirit and the raw energy your games always had. 安らかにお眠りください。