Hideaki Itsuno, the renowned game director behind the Devil May Cry series, is starting a new chapter in his illustrious career.
According to reliable insider sources within the industry, Itsuno is joining forces with his former partner, the legendary Hironobu Sakaguchi, to direct the next mainline installment of Square Enix’s flagship franchise, Final Fantasy.
Itsuno’s journey with Final Fantasy goes back several years. He previously collaborated on Final Fantasy XVI alongside Sakaguchi, lending his expertise in combat design to create a more action-oriented and dynamic battle system. The success of FFXVI set the stage for Itsuno’s even more significant involvement in the upcoming title.
In his new role as creative director, Itsuno will work alongside Sakaguchi to shape the narrative, world-building, and overall vision for Final Fantasy XVII. His profound understanding of action gameplay mechanics will undoubtedly influence the combat system, promising a thrilling and immersive experience for players.
The announcement of Itsuno’s move coincides with rumors of a potential PS5 Pro console release this December. While Sony has not officially confirmed the existence of a PS5 Pro, the timing of these developments suggests a possible connection. If true, Final Fantasy XVII could be a launch title for the upgraded console, showcasing its enhanced capabilities and pushing the boundaries of graphical fidelity and performance.
Capcom, Itsuno’s previous employer, has expressed gratitude for his contributions and wished him well in his future endeavors. The gaming community eagerly awaits more details about Final Fantasy XVII and the impact of Itsuno’s involvement.
His unique blend of stylish action and storytelling prowess is poised to bring a fresh perspective and excitement to the long-running franchise.