Shutaro Ida, the creative director for the upcoming game Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement, has passed away at the age of 52. He had been fighting cancer for a year and a half, according to developer ArtPlay.
Koji Igarashi, co-founder of ArtPlay, shared that Shutaro made important contributions to the world of video games through his many creations. Igarashi expressed deep sadness at Shutaro’s passing, noting how much potential he still had.
As a big fan of Shutaro’s work, I’m really excited to hear that Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement is almost finished! He poured so much into it, and the team is committed to finishing the game in a way that honors his memory and brings his vision to life. They’re going to do everything they can to make it a truly special experience.
Ida previously directed Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night and also worked on several Castlevania games, as well as Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain.
Read the full message from Igarashi below.
Announcement of the passing of Shutaro, Creative Director at ArtPlay
Our creative director, Shutaro, sadly passed away on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at the age of 52, after a year and a half-long battle with cancer.
Shutaro made important contributions to the world of video games with his many creations. His death is a great loss, and it’s especially sad considering how much potential he still had.
We are deeply grateful for the support his fans showed him throughout his life, and it is with great sadness that we announce his passing.
The funeral was a private event, limited to immediate family, as requested by those grieving.
Development on Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement, led by the late Shutaro, is nearly finished. We are committed to honoring his memory by completing the game to the high standards he envisioned.
We are respectfully asking that you refrain from sending flowers, gifts, or visits of condolence to our company or family. We appreciate your understanding during this difficult time.
February 16, 2026
Koji Igarashi
Co-founder / ArtPlay Inc.
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2026-02-16 07:47