Square Enix artist and character designer Toshiyuki Itahana leaves Square Enix after 25+ years

Final Fantasy designer Toshiyuki Itahana is leaving Square Enix after over 25 years at the company.

Itahana explained in a statement posted in both Japanese and English that he’d decided to leave Square Enix at the end of last year, prompted by the 25th anniversary of Final Fantasy 9.

“As I began thinking seriously about preparing myself to continue drawing for many years to come, I decided to leave Square Enix at the end of last year,” he explained. “Last year marked a major milestone with the 25th anniversary of Final Fantasy 9, a truly significant event, and I was deeply grateful to see so many people celebrating FF9.

“With the illustration work and supervision related to the 25th anniversary now complete, I feel a strong sense of accomplishment in having fulfilled the role entrusted to me. At the same time, I felt this was the right moment to draw a line under this chapter and take on new challenges.”

Itahana – who also contributed to character designs on both the Chocobo and Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles spin-off series and Nier Automata – says he will continue working as a freelance illustrator and character designer.

“While remaining deeply grateful for all the connections I’ve been fortunate to receive through my work so far, I hope to draw upon my experience and continue creating a wide variety of new artwork,” Itahana added.

“At the moment, I’m still finding my way – listening to advice and learning from senior freelance illustrators – but if you happen to come across my work somewhere, I would be truly happy if you could support me.”

Itahana closed by thanking fans and “all those I had the pleasure of working with over the years.”