Even though I don’t say it often, those who know me well, know how much of a big fan I am of Tomonobu Itagaki.
He is the one who created Ninja Gaiden, my all-time favorite video game series, and in particular my absolute favorite game: Ninja Gaiden 2.
A title that literally changed my life — as a player, as a person, and in my mindset. It awakened in me my hardcore spirit, my love for challenges, and my passion for difficult games.
It taught me not to give up in the face of obstacles, to work hard with dedication and determination to overcome every challenge and pursue my goals.
I’m always open to change and innovation: I believe in evolving, experimenting, and not staying stuck in the past.
At the same time, I deeply respect the legacy — what laid the foundations and created unforgettable masterpieces.
I also hope that Team Ninja will continue this legacy in their future works — and who knows, maybe one day surpass his masterpieces.
Ninja Gaiden 2 remains my all-time favorite game.
Even today, I haven’t seen any other game able to evoke the same emotions, adrenaline, and magic that it does. But I encourage and appreciate every title that takes inspiration from it and try to evolve — perhaps one day someone will create a game capable of surpassing it.
Although I’ve loved the later titles from the new Team Ninja, who have shown immense talent and the ability to craft extraordinary games, no other game, after all these years, has reached the same level — giving me the same intensity, excitement, and magic.
Some games come very close, others less so… but in my eyes, these titles remain unmatched, holding a special place in my heart.
For this reason, Itagaki will always be a legend in my eyes, a name I will always respect and be grateful for.
I am deeply saddened by his passing.
His spirit, philosophy, and vision will continue to live on through all of us who loved his creations.
Rest in Peace, Legend. 🙏
Rest In Peace to one of the biggest impacts in my life. Pushing boundaries in ways nobody would ever attempt.
As a grown man, you have no idea what a video game has done for me and the impact it’s had on my life, discipline and mindset.
Thank you again, Sensei ❤️😔🥷 #Itagaki
Happy #NationalBossDay!
The angel you screenshot is your next boss you need to fight in real life⚔️
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Hello, everyone!
This is Nakao, Producer/Director of NINJA GAIDEN 4.
When you think of NINJA GAIDEN, the first thing that comes to mind is the Ultimate Guidance ability... right??
I'm happy to share with you all that in the latest installment, NINJA GAIDEN 4, Ultimate Guidance finally makes its return!
When I first played the series, I was fascinated by how elegantly this simple risk vs. reward mechanic allows for so many split-second decisions. Do you pick up essence for healing? Or use Ultimate Guidance to consume the essence and charge your Ultimate Attack?
This game system really stuck with me over the years, and I see it as an inspiration in my own game design, so I've made sure to preserve its strengths in this title as well.
In NINJA GAIDEN 4, we've taken numerous other techniques from the previous titles and made them easier to use while building upon them further through the "Bloodraven Form" mechanic.
We hope both series fans and newcomers alike will give it a try!
#NINJAGAIDEN #NINJAGAIDEN4