Bloodstained director Shutaro Ida has sadly passed away at 52 ~ Amazing News 2020

Bloodstained director Shutaro Ida has sadly passed away at 52

By Sickr on February 16, 2026

Sadly news has emerged today that Shutaro Ida, the director behind Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night and the upcoming Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement, has passed away after a lengthy battle with cancer. Mr. Ida previously worked at Konami where he worked on several Castlevania games and the acclaimed Metal Gear Solid: The Phantom Pain. Here's a statement provided by 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.