Legendary Dead or Alive developer Tomonobu Itagaki dies aged 58

The gaming world is mourning the loss of Tomonobu Itagaki, one of Japan’s most iconic and influential developers, who died on Oct. 16, 2025, at the age of 58.

Known for shaping the modern action and fighting genres, Itagaki’s creative vision and bold personality left an enduring mark on the industry through legendary franchises such as Dead or Alive and Ninja Gaiden. His passing was announced through a heartfelt post shared on his official Facebook page, a message he had written in advance and entrusted to a close friend to release when the time came.