He was only fifty-two years old and had been battling cancer for a year and a half, unfortunately without success.

Shutaro Ida, the creative director of the upcoming Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement, passed away at the age of 52 after battling cancer. The announcement was made by ArtPlay, the game’s developer.

Ida was previously the director of Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night. Previously, he worked on several Castlevania games, as well as Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain. Koji Igarashi, the co-founder of ArtPlay, remembered his late colleague in a statement:

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Shutaro, Creative Director at ArtPlay. Early Tuesday morning, February 10, 2026, Shutaro passed away at the age of 52 after battling cancer for approximately one and a half years. He has contributed significantly to the gaming industry through his numerous creations. His passing is deeply regrettable, especially given the great promise of his future endeavors. I express my deepest gratitude for the kindness of all his fans during his lifetime, and I respectfully announce his passing. In accordance with the bereaved family’s wishes, the funeral was conducted only with close family members. The development of Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement, which Shutaro was leading, is now in its final stages. We will carry forward his legacy and strive to complete this work worthy of his vision and name. We must respectfully decline any condolence visits, monetary gifts, floral tributes, or visits to our company or his family. We deeply appreciate your understanding in this matter,” wrote Igarashi.

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… pic.twitter.com/Ekj7DLoyUO

– ArtPlay Official EN (@ArtplayEN) February 16, 2026

If the development of Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement is nearing completion, Ida’s death will not seriously impact the work. No significant changes need to be made, and his vision can be fully realized.

As for the future, there’s no reason to talk about it. No one else will be able to realize his vision in the same way. There is no point in trying to do so. After all, each of us is unique, and he was irreplaceable.

May he rest in peace.

Source: Gematsu