Tokyo, Japan — ArtPlay, the studio famed for its action-metroidvania title Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night, is mourning the loss of director Shutaro Iida, who passed away at the age of 52 after a battle with cancer. Iida’s diagnosis had been made public in October 2024.

Iida’s work was instrumental in shaping the gaming landscape, and he had a significant role in the ongoing development of the anticipated sequel, Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement. Koji Igarashi, one of the co-founders of ArtPlay, acknowledged Iida’s profound impact in a heartfelt statement that reflected on his contributions to the gaming industry and the promise he held for future projects.

The development team is currently in the final stages of completing the new title. Igarashi reassured the gaming community that the team is committed to honoring Iida’s legacy through a project that aligns with his vision. As part of the studio’s grieving process, they have requested to decline any condolence visits or floral tributes and ask for understanding from fans and the public.

In his tribute, Igarashi expressed gratitude for Iida’s influence on the industry and the loyalty of his supporters throughout his career. "His contributions will be deeply missed, especially as we strive to ensure that our upcoming work reflects his exceptional creativity and passion for gaming," he said in a statement.

The small funeral service was held privately, attended by close family members in accordance with Iida’s wishes. This decision underscores the family’s desire for privacy during this difficult time.

ArtPlay continues to emphasize its commitment to the project that Iida was passionately leading, aiming to produce a game that would resonate with the high standards he set. Fans can expect a dedication to his artistic vision in the final product, which is poised for release in the near future.

As the gaming world reflects on Iida’s impact, both fans and colleagues are reminded of the lasting imprint left by his innovative spirit and the potential for "Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement" to serve as a testament to his legacy in the medium.