Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement creative director Shutaro Ida has passed away at the age of 52 after a one-and-a-half year battle with cancer. Shutaro Ida was the director of the previous title, Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night, and contributed to a slew of titles during his tenure at Konami, including several Castlevania titles and Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain.
ArtPlay co-founder Koji Igarashi released the following message on X (formerly Twitter):
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.
