Veteran game director Tatsuya Kando has officially announced his departure from Square Enix, bringing an end to a storied 29-year career. Best known for his directorial role in The World Ends With You and his long-standing involvement with the Kingdom Hearts series, Kando’s exit marks a major shift for the JRPG powerhouse.
A Pillar of Square Enix’s Legacy
Kando began his journey with Square Enix (then Square) in 1997, earning his first credit as a character animator on Final Fantasy VII. Over the next two decades, he became a core figure behind many of the company’s flagship franchises. His creative influence expanded through key roles such as animation director and supervisor on titles like Kingdom Hearts, Final Fantasy X, and Kingdom Hearts III.
In 2007, Kando stepped into the spotlight as the director of The World Ends With You, a cult-classic action RPG that blended unique gameplay, modern urban settings, and deep storytelling. He returned to direct NEO: The World Ends With You in 2021, solidifying his status as the series’ creative force.
Reflecting on Nearly Three Decades of Creative Impact
As first reported by Gematsu, Kando shared a heartfelt post reflecting on his time at Square Enix. He expressed his appreciation for the “experiences” of working on major titles and extended gratitude to fans for their support over the years.
“I will continue to do my best to create enjoyable content,” Kando wrote, leaving the door open for future creative endeavors.
While Kando has not revealed what comes next, the gaming community is already speculating about a potential independent studio or new collaborations.
Fans and Industry Pay Tribute
News of his departure sparked an emotional response from fans across social media. Many expressed their appreciation for his contributions to The World Ends With You, as well as his artistic influence across nearly every Kingdom Hearts title, including spin-offs like Melody of Memory.
Fellow developers and long-time Square Enix collaborators have also acknowledged Kando’s departure as a significant moment in the company’s creative evolution.
A Creative Force Moves On
Square Enix continues to develop new titles in its major franchises, but the departure of a figure like Tatsuya Kando signals a major transition. As one of the few creatives who contributed directly to multiple generations of Square Enix hits, his absence will be felt deeply.
Yet, with a portfolio that spans some of the most beloved games in JRPG history, Kando’s legacy is secure—and his next chapter is highly anticipated.