Tatsuya Kando Leaves Square Enix After 29 Years

In a significant shift within the gaming industry, Tatsuya Kando has officially parted ways with Square Enix after an impressive 29-year tenure. Announcing his departure on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Kando reflected on his long-standing commitment to creating memorable gaming experiences that resonate with players worldwide. His career at Square Enix has been marked by groundbreaking contributions, particularly his influential role as director of the beloved title, The World Ends with You. Kando’s impact extended further into the realm of iconic franchises like Final Fantasy and Kingdom Hearts, reinforcing his status as a pivotal figure in the development of role-playing games and narratives that have captivated millions.

Kando’s legacy at Square Enix is further evidenced by his involvement in the anime adaptation of The World Ends with You and his contributions to cinematic projects such as Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children. His innovative approach not only shaped the gameplay mechanics and storytelling of these titles but also established a distinctive aesthetic that players have come to love. Even after his departure, Kando expresses an unwavering passion for game design and a desire to continue pushing the boundaries of creativity. Fans eagerly anticipate what he will produce next, hoping that his future endeavors will continue to blend captivating storytelling with immersive gameplay that has defined his illustrious career.

The release of NEO: The World Ends with You in July 2022, available on multiple platforms, is a testament to Kando’s enduring influence on the franchise. This sequel has managed to draw both old fans and new players, enriching the world that Kando helped create. As he embarks on new ventures outside of Square Enix, the gaming community watches closely to see how his experiences and insights will shape the next generation of video games. With Kando’s talent and vision, there is no doubt that his future projects will continue to inspire and engage gamers, making a meaningful contribution to the evolving landscape of interactive entertainment.

Summary

Tatsuya Kando, a prominent game developer associated with Square Enix for nearly three decades, announced on June 1, 2025, that he has left the company. During his extensive career, Kando made significant contributions to iconic franchises such as Final Fantasy and Kingdom Hearts, and was notably the director of the original The World Ends with You for the Nintendo DS, as well as the series director for its subsequent titles. He was also involved in the anime adaptation of The World Ends with You and played a role in the production of the Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children film. Following his departure, Kando expressed his desire to continue creating engaging content that brings joy to audiences.