Former Capcom MVP Hideaki Itsuno, game director behind multiple major series including Devil May Cry and Dragon’s Dogma, has been announced to lead a brand new studio formed under Tencent Games subsidiary LightSpeed Studios. Approrpiately named LightSpeed Japan Studio, the new venture will operate between Tokyo and Osaka and sees Itsuno’s pedigree put to work on a new AAA action title.
Via Press Release from LightSpeed Studios, it states that its new studio is a “significant step” in the company’s ongoing efforts to expand its gaming output. LightSpeed Japan Studio will “…will offer a flexible and inclusive working environment” the statement reads, “designed to foster innovation by integrating multi-platform, cross-device technologies, creating an environment where creativity and technical excellence thrive. The team will focus on pushing the boundaries of new game creation, continuously exploring new opportunities in gameplay and storytelling.”
Itsuno is something of a cult figure in the halls of Capcom, his impressive thirty years at the studio having seen him helm many franchises that would go on to cultivate dedicated fanbases and critical acclaim. In the same press release, Itsuno explains that joining Lightspeed Studios marks an exciting new chapter for the game director, “…I look forward to creating original AAA action game titles together with the amazing team and building aesthetic and innovative experiences for the global player community. We welcome all talented and passionate game creators from the world over to join our vision.”
Without any solid details beyond the action genre and an orginal story, it’s hard to say what Itsuno will be cooking with LightSpeed Japan Studio but what would you like to see from the Capcom veteran? Be sure to let us know in the comments below and on social media.
One part pretentious academic and one part goofy dickhead, James is often found defending strange games and frowning at the popular ones, but he's happy to play just about everything in between. An unbridled love for FromSoftware's pantheon, a keen eye for vibes first experiences, and an insistence on the Oxford comma have marked his time in the industry.
