In August 2024, Hideaki Itsuno, a prominent figure in the gaming industry, departed from Capcom after a remarkable tenure of over 30 years. His contributions to the company, particularly in creating the beloved Dragon's Dogma series and championing the Devil May Cry franchise, have left a significant mark on the gaming landscape. Itsuno's departure raised concerns about the future of Dragon's Dogma 2, especially with the announcement of a new expansion titled Dark Arisen, which shares its name with the first game's expansion. The gaming community was curious about how the absence of Itsuno would affect the development and direction of the series. In response to these concerns, producer Naoto Oyama and director Kenta Kinoshita addressed the situation, emphasizing Capcom's organizational structure that allows for continuity even when key personnel leave. Kinoshita, who has been involved with the Dragon's Dogma series since its inception, expressed confidence in his ability to uphold the series' legacy. He highlighted the team's extensive experience and understanding of what makes Dragon's Dogma unique, assuring fans that the upcoming expansion would maintain the essence of the franchise while incorporating quality-of-life improvements. The developers acknowledged the challenges of continuing a series without Itsuno's direct influence but reassured fans that they have the necessary expertise to deliver a quality experience. Kinoshita's commitment to preserving the series' distinctiveness was evident as he spoke about the importance of balancing new features with the hardcore nature that fans have come to love. As the launch of Dragon's Dogma 2: Dark Arisen approaches, the team remains optimistic about the future of the franchise and its ability to resonate with both new and returning players. Ultimately, the departure of a legendary figure like Itsuno marks a significant transition for Capcom and the Dragon's Dogma series. However, with a dedicated team in place, the company aims to honor Itsuno's legacy while continuing to innovate and expand the beloved RPG universe.