Shutaro Ida, creative director behind the upcoming Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement, has died at age 52 after a one-and-a-half years battle with cancer, developer ArtPlay announced.
“Shutaro has contributed significantly to the development of the gaming industry through the creation of numerous works,” reads a message from ArtPlay co-founder Koji Igarashi. “His passing is deeply regrettable, especially given the great promise of his future endeavors.
“The development of Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement, which Shutaro was leading, is now at its final stages. We will carry forward his legacy and strive with all our strength to complete this work worthy of his vision and name.”
Ida was also the director of Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night, and contributed to the development of various Castlevania games and Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain.
Read the full message from Igarashi below.
Announcement of the passing of Shutaro, Creative Director at ArtPlay
Early morning on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, our creative director Shutaro passed away at the age of 52 after battling against cancer for approximately one and a half years.
Shutaro has contributed significantly to the development of the gaming industry through the creation of numerous works. His passing is deeply regrettable, especially given the great promise of his future endeavors.
I express my deepest gratitude for the kindness of all of his fans during his lifetime and respectfully announce his passing.
The funeral was conducted only with close family members in accordance with the wishes of the bereaved family.
The development of Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement, which Shutaro was leading, is now at its final stages. We will carry forward his legacy and strive with all our strength to complete this work worthy of his vision and name.
We must respectfully decline any condolence visits, monetary gifts, floral tributes, or sympathy visiting to our company or his family. We deeply appreciate your understanding in this matter.
February 16, 2026
Koji Igarashi
Co-founder / ArtPlay Inc.