Full Name | Satoru Iwata |
Born | December 6, 1959 |
Birthplace | Sapporo, Japan |
Death | July 11, 2015 |
Cause of Death | Bile duct cancer |
Age | 55 |
Net Worth | $50 million |
@IwataSays |
As both a brilliant game programmer and compassionate CEO, Satoru Iwata played an instrumental role in Nintendo‘s history and left an indelible mark on the gaming world. From humble beginnings, he rose up the ranks to become Nintendo‘s president and oversaw a period of groundbreaking innovation. Above all, he strived to make games fun and accessible for all.
Early Fascination with Electronics and Programming
From childhood, Iwata displayed a knack for technology and an eagerness to learn how electronic devices worked. As a high school student in the 1970s, he eagerly programmed games on a Commodore PET and built his own 4-bit calculator from circuit boards.
While studying computer science at the Tokyo Institute of Technology, Iwata took a part-time job at HAL Laboratory in 1982. He contributed programming work even before graduating, having found his passion in game development.
Programming Wizardry at HAL Laboratory
Iwata‘s technical expertise proved invaluable to HAL Laboratory‘s small team. He contributed code to classic NES titles like Balloon Fight, EarthBound, Kirby‘s Dream Land and more.
For Kirby‘s Dream Land on Game Boy, Iwata‘s compression technique allowed the graphics and levels to fit within the tight cartridge space. This breakthrough enabled HAL to launch the iconic franchise.
Beyond programming skills, Iwata also displayed creative flair. He helped compose music for NES games like Nester‘s Funky Bowling and Balloon Kid. His quirky sense of humor showed through in droll details tucked into games.
Leading HAL‘s Recovery as President
In 1993, Iwata took over as president of HAL Laboratory when the company was on the brink of bankruptcy. Under Iwata‘s visionary leadership over the next decade, HAL invented properties like Super Smash Bros., recovered financial health, and produced numerous hits for Nintendo platforms.
Iwata fostered an environment focused on creativity, playfulness, and building innovative gameplay experiences. His successes at HAL proved his talents in nurturing game development.
Joining Nintendo and Becoming President
Iwata‘s accomplishments impressed executives at Nintendo enough to hire him as head of corporate planning in 2000. He contributed ideas like the Nintendo DS using touch controls.
Just two years later, Iwata succeeded the legendary Hiroshi Yamauchi as only the 4th president of Nintendo in its 100+ year history. It was a huge responsibility, but Iwata had shown the technical prowess and leadership skills to guide Nintendo forward.
Presiding Over a Golden Age of Innovation
As president from 2002 to 2015, Iwata presided over a monumental period that saw Nintendo redefine video games.
- The Nintendo DS (2004) pioneered touch controls and expanded the market with Brain Age.
- The Wii (2006) popularized motion controls and attracted new casual gamers.
- Hits like Nintendogs, Mii avatars, and Wii Sports opened gaming to wider audiences.
- The 3DS (2011) introduced glasses-free 3D gaming. Amiibo figures debuted, blending toys and games.
Iwata‘s people-first approach also led Nintendo to unprecedented success. The company saw record profits 4 years straight during his early tenure. He formed closer bonds between Nintendo‘s corporate side and game creators.
Direct Outreach to Fans
As the first Nintendo president fluent in English, Iwata connected more directly with global fans through social media and online video. His Iwata Asks interviews provided rare insights into game development. For the Nintendo Direct video series, Iwata himself announced new products and updates in a friendly, engaging manner.
Health Issues and Death
In late 2014, Iwata‘s health declined due to a bile duct growth. After surgery, he returned temporarily as CEO before it was announced his issues had returned. He passed away on July 11, 2015 at just 55 years old.
Across the industry, fans and colleagues mourned the premature loss of Iwata‘s humor, wisdom, and dedication to the art of games. His playful spirit and drive to innovate lives on in Nintendo‘s legacy.
Lasting Legacy
Though his tenure was sadly cut short, Satoru Iwata reshaped Nintendo for enduring success. He not only pioneered new hardware, but more importantly enabled creativity and fun. He saw games as a joyful artform for all. The gaming landscape today owes much to Iwata‘s programming genius and progressive leadership.