Nintendo of America Leadership Transition: Doug Bowser Retires, Devon Pritchard Named New President

Nintendo of America Announces Leadership Change as Doug Bowser Retires, Devon Pritchard Steps In In a landmark moment for Nintendo of America (NOA), long-serving President and Chief Operating Officer Doug Bowser has revealed his intention to retire, effective December 31, 2025.

Bowser, who took the helm in April 2019 following the departure of Reggie Fils-Aimé, will conclude a six-year tenure marked by historic milestones for the Nintendo Switch and significant growth across the company’s North American operations. Bowser’s leadership era witnessed the continued global success of the Nintendo Switch platform, with record-breaking hardware and software sales, an ever-expanding eShop catalog, and the introduction of beloved franchises and iconic Nintendo Direct presentations.

Under his guidance, NOA strengthened its market position and brought countless memorable gaming experiences to fans across the continent. Devon Pritchard will take over as President of Nintendo of America, bringing nearly two decades of industry experience and a proven track record of leadership within the company.

Pritchard has served in various high-level roles at NOA and is widely respected for her strategic contributions.

In addition to becoming President, she will join the NOA Board of Directors and serve as an Executive Officer with Nintendo Co., Ltd.

(NCL).

Satoru Shibata, another key leader at Nintendo, will be moving into the role of Chief Executive Officer at NOA while maintaining his position as Managing Executive Officer, Corporate Director, and Member of the Board at NCL. Reflecting on his retirement announcement, Bowser expressed his deep affinity for the company and its iconic characters: "Leading Nintendo of America has been the honor of a lifetime, and I am immensely proud of what our team has accomplished.

The business results and experiences we've built for consumers are a testament to our shared passion for Nintendo.

It's time for new leadership, and I have complete confidence in Devon Pritchard’s ability to guide NOA to continued success." Incoming President Devon Pritchard voiced her appreciation and excitement for the new role, stating, "I am truly humbled to be entrusted with this responsibility.

Doug Bowser has been an invaluable mentor, and I look forward to expanding on his legacy.

My aim is to build on Nintendo’s tradition of delighting and surprising long-time fans while also welcoming new players into the Nintendo community." Shuntaro Furukawa, President of Nintendo Co., Ltd., also praised Bowser’s contributions: "Doug Bowser made significant contributions during his tenure, helping to bring smiles to countless fans.

I deeply appreciate his dedication.

I am confident that Devon Pritchard will continue to advance Nintendo’s mission of creating joy and innovation for people of all ages." This carefully planned leadership change underscores Nintendo’s commitment to stability and growth as it navigates the future of the Nintendo Switch and prepares for new hardware and software initiatives.

Fans and industry experts alike will closely follow Pritchard’s leadership in the years to come, as Nintendo of America continues to shape the global gaming landscape from its Redmond, Washington headquarters.

Nintendo Nintendo of America Doug Bowser Bowser America Devon Pritchard Nintendo Co. Ltd. Satoru Shibata Reggie Fils-Aimé Shuntaro Furukawa