Yoshitaka Murayama, the renowned co-creator of Suikoden and a prolific figure in the gaming industry as a writer, producer, and director of Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes, has sadly passed away.
Rabbit & Bear Studios, the venture Murayama established in 2020, conveyed the news in a heartfelt statement, disclosing that he succumbed to complications arising from a prolonged illness on February 6.
“While Yoshitaka Murayama had completed his arduous work as a scenario writer for Eiyuden Chronicle, his colleagues and friends mourn the fact that he will not witness the reactions of his dedicated fanbase,” the statement expressed.
“We are committed to upholding his cherished legacy and creative vision through this game, understanding his earnest desire for the vibrant universe he crafted with Eiyuden Chronicle to endure.”
Eiyuden Chronicle, a project that garnered significant support through a Kickstarter campaign in 2020, amassing ¥481 million ($3.2 million), saw its prologue, Eiyuden Chronicle: Rising, unveiled in May 2022.
Murayama’s illustrious career traces back to 1995 when he played an instrumental role in the inception of Konami’s RPG masterpiece, Suikoden. His involvement extended to its sequels, and he assumed roles as both writer and director for the third installment before parting ways with Konami in 2002, prior to the game’s release.
Following his departure, Murayama established Blue Moon Studio and ventured into new territory with the development of the third-person shooter 10,000 Bullets, which premiered in 2005.
Subsequently, from 2006 to 2017, Murayama embarked on a freelance journey, contributing his talents as a writer to notable titles such as Asmik Ace Entertainment’s Tenshou Gakuen Gensouroku and Cattle Call’s The Alliance Alive.
