Tomonobu Itagaki's Success and Achievements in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: October 16, 2025

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Tomonobu Itagaki. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Tomonobu Itagaki is a Japanese video game designer renowned for creating the Dead or Alive series. He is also credited with successfully reviving the Ninja Gaiden franchise in 2004, bringing it to a new generation of gamers. His contributions to the gaming industry led to IGN recognizing him as one of the top 100 game creators of all time in 2009. Itagaki's work is characterized by its fast-paced action, challenging gameplay, and distinctive character designs, solidifying his place as an influential figure in the action game genre.

Sections (2)

Full Timeline Success & Recognition

March 1985: Graduation from High School

In March 1985, Tomonobu Itagaki graduated from Waseda University Senior High School.

1992: Graduation from Waseda University

In 1992, Tomonobu Itagaki graduated from the School of Law at Waseda University.

1992: Joining Tecmo

In 1992, Tomonobu Itagaki joined Tecmo and began producing successful video game franchises.

1992: Joining Tecmo as Graphics Programmer

In 1992, Tomonobu Itagaki joined Tecmo as a graphics programmer, working on the Super Famicom version of Tecmo Super Bowl.

April 2001: Head of Third Creative Department

In April 2001, Tomonobu Itagaki was appointed the head of the third creative department at Tecmo.

July 2001: Team Ninja Leader

In July 2001, Tomonobu Itagaki assumed the post of Team Ninja Leader.

June 2004: Executive Officer Appointment

In June 2004, Tomonobu Itagaki was appointed as an executive officer at Tecmo.

2004: Revival of the Ninja Gaiden Franchise

In 2004, Tomonobu Itagaki revived the Ninja Gaiden franchise.

2006: General Manager and Demotion

In 2006, Tomonobu Itagaki assumed the position of general manager of the high-end production department in February, but his Executive Officer position was taken away in August of the same year due to accusations of sexual harassment.

January 2021: Establishment of Itagaki Games

In January 2021, Tomonobu Itagaki announced that he had established a new game studio, Itagaki Games, and expressed interest in working with Microsoft again.