Toshiyuki Itahana Bids Farewell to Square Enix: A New Adventure Awaits!
Breaking news: the creative mastermind behind some of the quirkiest characters in gaming history, Toshiyuki Itahana, has decided to hang up his Square Enix cape after an impressive 30 years of service. Yes, it has been three decades of conjuring up whimsical worlds, and Itahana feels it’s time to leave the comfortable nest of game development. Perhaps game designers have a secret retirement age, and 30 years is it?
While Final Fantasy 9 is his most recognizable masterpiece, let’s not forget his other illustrious works, such as the Crystal Chronicles and the Chocobo series. When one thinks of adorable bird-like characters, it’s hard not to picture Itahana scribbling away in the corner with a cup of coffee—and maybe a Chocobo-shaped cookie.
The Grand Farewell
In a heartfelt message that probably had fans shedding a tear or two (or many), Itahana announced he made this monumental decision late last year. This was the same time that fanfare erupted around the 25th anniversary of Final Fantasy IX. It’s almost as if he planned this dramatic exit like a character in his own game, wouldn’t it be nice to have a magical exit portal?
“Reflecting on my journey and realizing the great achievement that was the 25th anniversary prompted this decision,” he mused. It’s like being the star of a show and deciding the second season is a little too much for the psyche. The celebrations surrounding FFIX were a wonderful spectacle (who doesn’t love themed cafés?), and now he feels accomplished, like a cake that’s finally been baked and frosted, ready for the birthday party.
“To everyone who celebrated with us, and visited the exhibitions (plus those delicious cafés)—thank you!” He might as well have added, “May your meditation on how to tackle a new character design be as sweet as the Osaka café desserts!” But alas, it appears that all good things must come to an end. Itahana has completed his mission, and the world is waiting with bated breath to see what comes next.
What’s Next? Freelance Adventures!
In his newfound freedom, Itahana has announced he will leap into the exciting world of freelancing. That’s right, no boss, no meetings at 8 AM, and definitely no more mandatory team-building exercises. It’s a dream come true for any creative type! “I’m still trying to find my footing,” he admitted, sounding almost like a cork bobbing in the vast ocean of freelance work. “But hey, if someone happens to stumble across my work, a little support would be lovely!” It’s like asking someone to throw coins into a wishing well—every little bit helps, right?
The original Final Fantasy 9 was released way back in 2000 for the PlayStation, and it’s been making a reappearance like a well-loved guest at a family reunion every decade since. Who could forget its conversion to PS1 Classic in 2010? Or the glorious support for the PS3, PSP, and even the Vita in 2012? Truly, this game will not be forgotten so easily.
And just when everyone thought the tale was over, whispers of a remake have lingered in the air like the scent of popcorn at a movie theater. A leak in 2021 hinted at a remake lurking in the shadows, caught between the realms of unannounced and anticipated. It’s almost poetic—the legacy of a game that just won’t quit!
So here’s a toast to Itahana, who graciously leaves behind a vibrant legacy—may the next chapter be filled with adventures, and may the freelance sketches flow as freely as the coffee at an all-night café!
