Since its announcement almost a decade ago, the upcoming PS4-exclusive The Last Guardian has been through quite a lengthy development process and, in just one week, players will finally get to experience the hard work and dedication of its developers, with the game's director leaving a heartfelt message to fans.

In a report from Eurogamer, the press kits released for The Last Guardian ahead of its December 6th launch included an added bonus in the form of a note from game director Fumito Ueda, director of the cult classics Ico and Shadow of the Colossus.

Specifically, the note features an illustration of the game's protagonists, along with a message from Ueda that captures the team's sincere appreciation for players to enjoy the title, acknowledging the game's "twists and turns" through development, but assuring players that the title is "an experience unlike any other."

The full message from Ueda can be read below, with an image of the note (via Eurogamer) also viewable below:

Dear Adventurers

It's been a long time coming, but I take great pleasure (and relief!) in knowing that The Last Guardian is in your hands.

When we first began work on The Last Guardian, I intended it to take from and build on our experience working in ICO and Shadow of the Colossus, making it something akin to a greatest hits album. Unfortunately, as you know, we ran into a few twists and turns along the way, and the title took longer than anyone expected. Still, just as ICO and Shadow of the Colossus are truly unique games, so too is The Last Guardian an experience unlike any other.

As you play, take the time to stop and enjoy the scenery as you follow these unlikely companions on their journey. And you definitely won't want to miss the ending!

The development team and I hope you all have a wonderful time with The Last Guardian. Nothing would make us happier.

Fumito Ueda.

The Last Guardian releases for PS4 on December 6th, 2016.