Fatal Frame 5 Likely Getting a Western Release, Claims Itagaki

Tomonobu Itagaki, known for his revival of the Ninja Gaiden franchise and the creation of the Dead or Alive series, is confident Fatal Frame V will be getting a Western release.

GoNintendo reports that Tomonobu Itagaki made a comment on his Facebook, citing his belief that Fatal Frame V: The Black-Haired Shrine Maiden will be given a North American release. While Itagaki is no longer working at Koei Tecmo, filed lawsuits against them and since created his own company (Valhalla Game Studios), he's still faithful in its Western debut and the friends he still has at his former studio.

''Hey guys, I strongly believe that Kikuchi Keisuke (producer) will release the Fatal Frame V in America, in many countries," Itagaki said. "He and me have same philosophy from Tecmo days. That's what I can say for now. I want you guys to read between the lines. Anyway I will play this game.''

We're glad to finally hear something in terms of Fatal Frame V's release. Even if its speculation from a former employee, it's great to hear a director/lead designer acknowledge that North American fans want this game. Of course, the only thing standing in the way of Fatal Frame V's localization are the archaic and rigid publishers at Nintendo.