It is with a mixture of both respect and expectation that we announce a major change within the walls of Square Enix, as long-time game director Tatsuya Kando brings an incredible 29-year career to a close at the gaming legend publisher, reported by Gematsu. His exit marks the conclusion of almost three decades of dedicated service, years in which Kando left his mark on some of the most beloved titles through the company’s golden back catalog.
Kando’s initial collaboration with Square Enix was in 1997, which laid the groundwork for a career that has been remembered for work of beauty and direction. He was part of the creation team of milestone franchises like Final Fantasy and Kingdom Hearts early in his career. In these capacities, he worked expertly as a character animator, animation director, and supervisor to assist in establishing the visual accuracy and emotionally resonant character motion that are now the hallmark of these brands. His careful attention to detail and artistic instincts forever influenced the overall appearance and sensation absorbed by hundreds of millions of gamers globally.
As his career developed, Kando rose to ranks of director, continuing his own creative vision in the critically praised The World Ends With You and its new sequel, NEO: The World Ends With You. Both titles, each with their own unique aesthetic look and story, solidified his position as a director that can lead new and timeless gaming experiences.
As he departed, Kando also expressed his sincere gratitude for the devoted fan base, understanding their unshakeable loyalty towards his work on Square Enix’s most popular franchises. His legacy is not just referred to by the games that he assisted in creating but by the enduring influence that he continues to have on the creative landscape of one of the greatest companies in the industry. With the gaming world bidding farewell to a seasoned creative force, we can only look forward to what new pages await both Tatsuya Kando and Square Enix.
