Bloodstained Director Steps Back from Sequel After Cancer News

Shutaro Ida, the director behind Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night, has announced he will be stepping back from the sequel Bloodstained 2 due to a recent cancer diagnosis. In his heartfelt message shared on social media, Ida expressed his gratitude for the support he's received and mentioned that he would be sharing his directing responsibilities with the rest of the ArtPlay team while he focuses on his health. Bloodstained 2 was first announced in 2021, yet details about the game's progress have been sparse. The original Bloodstained was acclaimed for its gameplay and nostalgic homage to the Castlevania series, which Ida has significantly contributed to throughout his career.

Shutaro Ida's departure is likely to affect the creative direction of Bloodstained 2, as he has been a driving force behind the series. However, his colleagues at ArtPlay are committed to continuing the project and upholding the vision he started, ensuring that fans can still expect a high-quality sequel.

Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night, released in 2019, is a spiritual successor to the Castlevania series, known for its stunning visuals, deep gameplay mechanics, and engaging story. The game was a commercial success and received high acclaim, being recognized as one of the best Metroidvania games by critics and fans alike. With the sequel in development, many are eager to see how it evolves this beloved franchise.