Today, Nintendo have issued a press release stating that the companies well-loved president, Satoru Iwata, has unfortunately passed away. In his memory, we decided to take a look at his hugely successful career…

The president of Nintendo, Satoru Iwata, passed away on Saturday 11th July, aged 55. His hard-work, dedication and passion for gaming meant he experienced much success during his time at Nintendo. His loveable personality also meant he became well-liked by gaming enthusiasts worldwide.

Iwata started his career at HAL Laboratory, after finishing his degree at the Tokyo Institute of Technology. He began as a game programmer and always maintained the importance of having a passion for gaming – an ethos that stayed with him throughout his time in the industry.

It didn’t take Satoru long to work his way up the career ladder, becoming the president of HAL in 1993 and less than ten years later, in 2002, he was appointed as Nintendo’s 4th president. He was the first person to be given the position who did not belong to the Yamauchi family.

During his time as president, the inspirational gamer had one key focus. He to have a “gaming population expansion by offering compelling products that anyone can enjoy, regardless of age, gender or gaming experience”.

Undoubtedly, one of his biggest achievements as leader was the hugely popular Nintendo DS, which was released in 2004. The Nintendo Wii also experienced great success and both generated big profits for the company.

Aside from making the company a lot of money, Iwata also gave Nintendo a new, fresh attitude. He brought the company closer to humanity. Through Nintendo Direct videos, he communicated to fans his passion and inherit love of gaming. The pioneering president reshaped the company’s ethos and gamers couldn’t help but warm to him.

Although his death is a massive loss to society, there is no doubt that Satoru Iwata has certainly left behind a rather impressive legacy.

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