FromSoftware President Hidetaka Miyazaki Reflects on Satoru Iwata’s Legacy Amid Industry Layoffs

In the ever-evolving landscape of the video game industry, leadership choices can resonate widely—especially during challenging times such as the current wave of global layoffs affecting game developers.

FromSoftware president and Elden Ring director Hidetaka Miyazaki recently drew upon the legacy of the late Satoru Iwata, the former Nintendo president renowned for his commitment to his employees, illustrating how past examples can shape today's corporate culture. Speaking with PC Gamer, Miyazaki acknowledged the difficult climate facing many studios in 2024, referencing the "brutal waves" of layoffs impacting the industry.

He highlighted Satoru Iwata’s iconic decision to halve his own salary during his tenure at Nintendo—a move aimed at protecting jobs and enabling his development teams to concentrate on "making good things." Iwata’s leadership style not only fostered innovation but also helped establish Nintendo’s reputation as a people-centric company, particularly throughout the Nintendo Switch era and beyond. Miyazaki, echoing Iwata’s philosophy, stated, “I believe it was the previous president of Nintendo, Mr.

Iwata, who said, ‘When staff are concerned about losing their jobs, it stifles creativity.’ This perspective truly resonates with me, and I hold it close as a core principle.

While it’s impossible to make absolute assurances about the future for FromSoftware or our parent company Kadokawa, as long as I am president, I would not authorize layoffs.

I hope this stance offers some reassurance to our players and fans.” This approach stands in stark contrast to statements from other executives in the gaming sector, some of whom have referred to layoffs as unfortunate but "necessary" for maintaining a sustainable business.

Miyazaki’s reaffirmation comes at a pivotal time for FromSoftware, as the studio celebrates the launch of "Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree," a major DLC release for the critically acclaimed action RPG.

Meanwhile, Nintendo’s own legacy remains influential through the widespread success of the Nintendo Switch and continued strong performance across the eShop with titles like Dark Souls: Remastered. FromSoftware’s reassuring message is not only a nod to Iwata’s enduring impact on game development leadership but also a commitment to sustaining staff well-being—a principle still deeply admired across the industry.

Such leadership ideals are particularly resonant amidst volatile business cycles, and Miyazaki’s remarks have been welcomed by both FromSoftware’s workforce and the wider gaming community. For Nintendo Switch enthusiasts, FromSoftware’s influence can be experienced via Dark Souls: Remastered, further cementing the cultural and technological connections between these industry giants.

As developers, executives, and fans look to the future, it is clear that Iwata’s legacy—characterized by empathy, innovation, and respect for creators—remains a model for the gaming world today.

Nintendo FromSoftware Hidetaka Miyazaki Satoru Iwata Kadokawa Elden Ring Dark Souls Remastered Nintendo Switch PC Gamer