Toshiyuki Itahana, renowned character artist for the Final Fantasy series, has officially left Square Enix. Itahana is known for his work on iconic titles such as Final Fantasy 9, Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles, and Final Fantasy 14: Dawntrail.
In a heartfelt message to fans shared online, Itahana revealed that he made the decision to part ways with Square Enix last year, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the beloved franchise. He expressed feelings of both pride and a sense that it was the appropriate time to embark on a new journey.
Looking ahead, Itahana plans to pursue a career as a freelance illustrator and character designer. He mentioned that he is currently learning from experienced freelance artists and is hopeful for the continued support of his fans during this transition.
He concluded his message with gratitude, saying: "To everyone who played the games I worked on at Square Enix, and to all those I had the pleasure of working with over the years, thank you very much. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude, and I sincerely hope for your continued support in the future."
The Final Fantasy franchise is undergoing an intriguing phase, as recent developments indicate a push for reassessment from major shareholders. Square Enix is actively seeking input from fans regarding the direction of the series, suggesting a potential era of transformation for the franchise. With Itahana's departure, Square Enix bids farewell to one of its most cherished artists, whose future as a freelancer seems bright.
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