Longtime Game Developer Shutaro Ida Dies at 52
Shutaro Ida, a prominent figure in the video game industry known for his function on the Castlevania and Bloodstained series, passed away on February 10, 2026, after a battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 52 years old.
ArtPlay, the developer behind the Bloodstained franchise, announced Ida’s passing, noting his significant contributions to game development. Ida served as the creative director for the upcoming Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement, which is now in its final stages of development. The company stated it will carry forward his legacy and complete the game in a way that honors his vision.
Prior to his work at ArtPlay, Ida was a programmer and designer at Konami, where he contributed to several Castlevania titles, including Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow. Koji Igarashi, co-founder and president of ArtPlay, reflected on their long-standing collaboration, stating, “His contributions to the gaming industry cannot be understated.” Igarashi expressed gratitude that Ida joined ArtPlay “without hesitation” after he left Konami and the Castlevania series.
Igarashi further noted the success of Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night was also due to Ida’s support, adding that he had supported him for over twenty years. The news of Ida’s death was also reported by Gematsu and RPG Site.
Ida’s career began with Sexy Parodius for PlayStation and Saturn in 1996 and he later worked on titles such as Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes and The Phantom Pain. His work on the Castlevania series included titles like Aria of Sorrow, Dawn of Sorrow, Portrait of Ruin, and Order of Ecclesia.
ArtPlay confirmed that a private funeral was held for Ida, in accordance with his family’s wishes, and respectfully declined any condolences, monetary gifts, floral tributes, or sympathy visits.
The passing of a key creative leader like Ida underscores the human element behind the technology and artistry of game development. His contributions helped shape beloved franchises and inspire a generation of players.
