After more than two decades of contributing to some of Capcom’s most beloved franchises, renowned game director Hideaki Itsuno has announced his departure from the company. Itsuno’s decision to leave Capcom marks the end of an era for fans of Devil May Cry and Dragon’s Dogma, two highly acclaimed series that he has helped shape and redefine over the years.
Itsuno joined Capcom in 1992 and quickly made a name for himself within the gaming industry. He worked on several notable titles as a planner and level designer before his breakthrough came in 2001 when he directed the critically acclaimed Devil May Cry. The game revolutionized the action genre with its stylish and fast-paced gameplay, earning a dedicated fan base and spawning multiple sequels.
Itsuno’s creative genius also extended to Dragon’s Dogma, an open-world action role-playing game that captured the imaginations of gamers worldwide. Released in 2012, Dragon’s Dogma garnered praise for its deep combat mechanics and innovative Pawn system, which allowed players to recruit AI-controlled companions to aid them in their quest. Itsuno’s masterful direction brought a sense of epic scale and memorable encounters to the game, further solidifying his reputation as a visionary director.
Fans of both Devil May Cry and Dragon’s Dogma eagerly awaited news of Itsuno’s next projects, always eager to see what he would bring to the table. However, Itsuno’s departure from Capcom comes as a surprise to many, leaving both franchises’ futures uncertain.
The news was confirmed by Itsuno himself on Twitter, where he expressed his gratitude to the fans for their unwavering support. He mentioned that he had been at Capcom for more than 30 years and felt that it was time to take on new challenges. Itsuno’s departure marks the end of an era for Capcom, as he was not only a highly regarded director but also a key figure in the company’s success.
While the departure of a talented director like Itsuno naturally raises concerns about the future of Devil May Cry and Dragon’s Dogma, it is important to remember that franchises are supported by a team of talented individuals. Capcom has shown its ability to evolve and adapt over the years, successfully maintaining the quality of its games even after the departure of key figures.
It remains to be seen who will take up the reins for Devil May Cry and Dragon’s Dogma, but fans can hold on to the hope that these beloved franchises will continue to deliver thrilling experiences and push the boundaries of their respective genres. Itsuno’s legacy will undoubtedly live on through the masterpieces he has created and the inspiration he has provided to other game developers.
As a trailblazer in the action genre, Hideaki Itsuno has left an indelible mark on the gaming industry. His departure from Capcom may come as a surprise, but it paves the way for new possibilities and avenues for both the acclaimed director and the franchises he has helped shape. Ultimately, as fans, we should celebrate Itsuno’s contributions and eagerly anticipate his next ventures, while also looking forward to the vibrant future Capcom has in store for us.
