Cygames Executive Director Yuito Kimura Steps Down

Cygames has announced that Yuito Kimura, one of the company’s founding figures and its longtime executive director, has stepped down from his position. The decision, made official on September 30, 2025, was attributed to health concerns that, while not considered life-threatening, have prevented Kimura from continuing his day-to-day duties.

Kimura co-founded Cygames in 2011 and quickly became a central creative and managerial force within the studio. Over the years, he oversaw the launch and growth of some of the company’s most important titles, including Granblue Fantasy, Shadowverse, Rage of Bahamut, and Princess Connect! Re:Dive. His leadership not only helped establish Cygames as a powerhouse in the Japanese mobile and online gaming space, but also positioned the company as a major presence in the global market.

In a statement, Cygames confirmed that Kimura’s responsibilities have already been transitioned to other board members and senior staff, ensuring continuity across ongoing projects. While the company did not provide details about his successor, the message emphasized stability and reassured fans that current and future games will proceed as planned.

Kimura, meanwhile, has expressed gratitude to colleagues and fans alike, noting that stepping back was a necessary decision for his long-term well-being. He left the door open to potentially return to production work once his health allows, though for now his focus will be on recovery.

For Cygames, the departure of such a key leader marks the end of an era. Kimura’s influence has been visible not only in the studio’s games but also in its company culture, which grew from a start-up to one of Japan’s most prominent developers in just over a decade. The transition will be closely watched by both industry peers and the fan communities built around the studio’s franchises.

Even as Kimura steps down, his legacy remains tied to Cygames’ identity. The characters, worlds, and stories developed under his leadership continue to resonate with millions of players worldwide, a testament to his vision and the team he helped build.