Toshiyuki Itahana, renowned for his character design in noteworthy projects like Final Fantasy IX, the Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles, and Chocobo series, recently announced his exit from Square Enix to pursue a freelance career. With serious contemplation on resuming his passion for drawing for the foreseeable future, Itahana’s resolution to leave Square Enix came into effect as of last year’s end.
2026 marked the 25th Anniversary of Final Fantasy IX, an exceedingly significant observance, and it filled Itahana with gratitude to witness an immense amount of people partaking in the celebration. He wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to all who participated in the celebration, visited exhibitions, retail shops, and themed cafes (including the continuing Osaka collaboration cafe).
Involved with the illustration work and supervision that were part of the 25th-year anniversary, Itahana felt a distinct sense of accomplishment in having successfully fulfilled his responsibilities. He deemed this the ideal time for closure of that chapter of his life and moving forward to embrace new endeavors. Itahana will now function as a freelance illustrator and character designer.
Carrying a deep appreciation for all the relationships built through his career till now, Itahana anticipates using his experiences to keep producing diverse and dynamic artwork in various spheres of his profession. At present, he is still figuring out his path, taking advice, and learning from senior freelance illustrators.
For those who might chance upon his future work, he warmly encourages their support. He expresses heartfelt thanks to everyone who has played the games he contributed to at Square Enix and to those he had the pleasure of collaborating with over the years. Itahana desires to convey his profound gratitude and looks forward to continued support in his forthcoming journey. He wishes everyone a particularly joyful year. – Toshiyuki Itahana January 5, 2026
As I began thinking seriously about preparing myself to continue drawing for many years to come, I decided to leave Square Enix at the end of last year.
Last year marked a major milestone with the 25th anniversary of Final Fantasy IX, a truly significant event, and I was deeply grateful to see so many people celebrating Final Fantasy IX.
To everyone who celebrated with us, and to those who visited the exhibitions, shops, and cafes—thank you so very much! (The Osaka collaboration café is still ongoing!)
With the illustration work and supervision related to the 25th anniversary now complete, I feel a strong sense of accomplishment in having fulfilled the role entrusted to me. At the same time, I felt this was the right moment to draw a line under this chapter and take on new challenges.
From here on, I will be working as a freelance illustrator and character designer.
While remaining deeply grateful for all the connections I’ve been fortunate to receive through my work so far, I hope to draw upon my experience and continue creating a wide variety of new artwork.
At the moment, I’m still finding my way—listening to advice and learning from senior freelance illustrators—but if you happen to come across my work somewhere, I would be truly happy if you could support me.
To everyone who played the games I worked on at Square Enix, and to all those I had the pleasure of working with over the years, thank you very much. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude, and I sincerely hope for your continued support in the future.
May this new year be an exceptionally happy one for all of you.
Toshiyuki Itahana
January 5, 2026
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