Toshiyuki Itahana, the esteemed artist and character designer renowned for his pivotal work on Final Fantasy IX and other beloved titles, has officially announced his departure from Square Enix after a distinguished career spanning over 25 years. His decision, revealed recently, marks a significant shift for both the artist and the renowned gaming studio, as Itahana embarks on a new chapter as a freelance illustrator and character designer.
Itahana’s departure comes on the heels of the highly celebrated 25th anniversary of Final Fantasy IX, a project he actively contributed to with new artwork and supervision. He explained his decision to leave at the end of last year, stating a desire to seriously prepare himself to continue drawing for many years to come and a strong sense of accomplishment in fulfilling his role for the anniversary. This transition signifies a personal quest for new creative challenges, moving beyond the structured environment of a major developer.
A Legacy Forged in Fantasies
During his extensive tenure at Square Enix, Toshiyuki Itahana left an indelible mark on numerous iconic franchises. While he is most widely recognized as a character designer for the critically acclaimed Final Fantasy IX, his artistic contributions extend far beyond this single title. He served as the main character designer for both the Chocobo and Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles spin-off series, shaping the visual identity of these beloved worlds.
Itahana’s diverse portfolio also includes character designs for NieR: Automata, Final Fantasy XI, Final Fantasy XIII-2, Final Fantasy XIV, and Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII. He even took on directorial roles for games like Code Age Commanders and Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: The Crystal Bearers, showcasing his versatility beyond character design. His work on the 25th anniversary celebrations for Final Fantasy IX, which included new commemorative art and character illustrations, further cemented his profound connection to the series.
Embracing a Freelance Future
The completion of his work on the Final Fantasy IX 25th-anniversary project proved to be a pivotal moment for Itahana. He expressed a deep sense of fulfillment in having completed the role entrusted to him, which coincided with his reflections on a long-term artistic career. This confluence of events led him to conclude that it was the opportune time to explore new avenues as a freelance artist.
Itahana emphasized that he is not retiring but rather seeking to leverage his extensive experience to create a wide variety of new artwork. He is currently navigating the freelance landscape, learning from senior illustrators in the field. His transition highlights a common path for seasoned industry veterans who seek greater creative autonomy and the flexibility to pursue diverse projects. Fans eagerly anticipate seeing the unique styles and projects that will emerge from this new chapter in his illustrious career.
Toshiyuki Itahana’s departure from Square Enix marks the end of an era for a designer whose artistic vision profoundly shaped some of gaming’s most cherished worlds. His legacy, particularly within the Final Fantasy universe, will undoubtedly continue to inspire. As he ventures into freelance work, the gaming community watches with keen interest for the next captivating creations from this celebrated artist, eager to support his independent endeavors.
