Shutaro Iida, dev of classic Castlevania games on GBA / Nintendo DS and Bloodstained director, has passed away

The video game industry is mourning another significant loss. Shutaro Iida passed away on February 10 at the age of 52 after a long battle with cancer. His death is a major loss for game fans, particularly those who have followed the Castlevania series for decades.

During his time at Konami, Iida played an important role in shaping Castlevania’s portable era. As a programmer, he contributed to several of the franchise’s most acclaimed entries on Game Boy Advance and Nintendo DS, helping refine the systems and gameplay that many fans consider the series’ creative peak.

One of his most notable works is Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow, praised for its story and the soul system that introduced new gameplay ideas. He also worked on Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow, Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin, and Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia, all now regarded as modern classics.

After leaving Konami, Iida reunited with Koji Igarashi to form ArtPlay. At the studio, he contributed as a Director on Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night, a spiritual successor to Castlevania that found success with fans around the world.

Shutaro Iida’s legacy lives on through these games, which continue to inspire developers and delight players.

Nintendo Everything extends its condolences to his family, friends, and fans, honoring the work of a creator who helped shape one of gaming’s most important franchises.

Thanks to Greatsong1 for the tip.