Toshiyuki Itahana has announced he will be leaving Square Enix at the end of 2025. The artist, famous for his work on Final Fantasy IX and the Chocobo’s Mystery Dungeon games, plans to begin working as a freelancer in 2026.
Interestingly, Itahana didn’t start his career entirely at Square Enix. He began as a character illustrator at Banpresto. When Banpresto collaborated with Squaresoft on the first Chocobo’s Mystery Dungeon game for PlayStation in 1997, Itahana joined the project. This connection eventually led to him joining Squaresoft full-time.
In addition to his work on those games, Itahana designed characters for Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles, Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII, Final Fantasy Explorers, and Mobius Final Fantasy. He also contributed character designs as a guest artist for Devola & Popola in NieR: Automata and Sphene Alexandros XIV in Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail.
Below you’ll find Toshiyuki Itahana’s tweet and a copy of the official English announcement from his Note blog.
Hey everyone, just wanted to let you know what’s been going on with me! I finished working on the project celebrating the 25th anniversary of Final Fantasy IX, and at the end of last year, I decided to leave Square Enix. I’m now working as a freelance illustrator, which I’m really excited about! I’ve posted some more details over on my note, if you’re interested in learning more.
— 板鼻利幸 TOSHIYUKI ITAHANA (@ItahanaT) January 5, 2026
I decided to leave Square Enix at the end of last year as I started planning for a long-term future with my art.
Last year, we celebrated the 25th anniversary of FINAL FANTASY IX, which was a really special occasion. It meant a lot to see so many fans enjoying the game.
Now that the artwork and oversight for the 25th anniversary project are finished, I’m proud of the work I did. I also feel it’s a good time to move on and pursue new opportunities.
＊ ＊ ＊
I’m now available for freelance illustration and character design work. I really appreciate the relationships I’ve built through my past projects, and I’m excited to use my skills to create all kinds of new art.
I’m still developing my skills as an illustrator, taking advice from experienced freelancers and learning as I go. If you see my work anywhere, I’d really appreciate your support!
To the players of the Square Enix games I helped create, and to all my wonderful colleagues, thank you from the bottom of my heart. I truly appreciate your support and hope it continues.
May this new year be an exceptionally happy one for all of you.
Toshiyuki Itahana
Jan 05, 2026
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2026-01-05 19:56