While many gamers across the world are distraught over Satoru Iwata’s passing, Shigeru Miyamoto; creator of Mario and Legend of Zelda, worked with him for many years and not only lost a business partner, but a friend.
Miyamoto’s moving statement
“I am surprised at this sudden news and overcome with sadness.
“The entire development team at Nintendo will remain committed to our development policy which Mr. Iwata and we have been constructing together and to yield the development results which Mr. Iwata would appreciate.”
– Shigeru Miyamoto
Shigeru Miyamoto knew Satoru Iwata as not only a colleague but a friend during the development of the Mario branch within Nintendo. Miyamoto was struck with immense sadness over the loss of his friend, while also trying to reassure the gaming community that Nintendo won’t fall apart after this devastating day in video game history.
Nintendo’s Future President
At the moment, Nintendo hasn’t released any statements on who will become the president, but Miyamoto is a runner-up for the position that has held such of a legacy.
In the wake of Satoru Iwata’s passing, Genyo Takeda and Miyamoto will run the company until a candidate for the position has been chosen.
The Nintendo of Europe President Satoru Shibata released a statement on the situation and the passing of Iwata.
“It is difficult to put into words the sadness we feel at this time. Mr. Iwata was a strong leader, a unique figure in the gaming industry and an important part of Nintendo’s history. He was a visionary in every sense of the word and we will miss him dearly.
“Just as Mr. Iwata challenged us to always push forward, we will ensure his legacy lives on through our ongoing work to always surprise and delight our fans. At this time our thoughts are with his family.” – Satoru Shibata
While the gaming community will still mourn the loss of this legendary developer within Nintendo, they will not only remember him for his strides as a business man, but for his love of video games that transcended through his actions and creations.
Satoru Iwata, you will be missed.
