Nintendo’s Reggie Fils-Aime is Retiring, Bowser to Take Over

Reggie Fils-Aime is stepping down. After more than 15 years at Nintendo of America, Reggie will retire from his role as President and COO in April. It’s the end of an era…

This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, when you consider why he’s retiring. “Nintendo owns a part of my heart forever,” Fils-Aime said. “It’s a part that is filled with gratitude – for the incredibly talented people I’ve worked with, for the opportunity to represent such a wonderful brand, and most of all, to feel like a member of the world’s most positive and enduring gamer community. As I look forward to departing in both good health and good humor, this is not ‘game over’ for me, but instead ‘leveling up’ to more time with my wife, family and friends.” Basically, he’s getting some much needed rest. But not before saying goodbye via the IGN video below.

Reggie started at Nintendo back in 2003 as its Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing before becoming the President and COO in 2006. His leadership helped Nintendo to break new ground in the US. What Reggie will be most remembered for though, was his charming personality whenever he communicated with fans and the press at events; he made even the mundane Nintendo titles sound fun during Direct Videos.

Reggie Fils-Aime’s last day will be April 15, at which point, Doug Bowers – Nintendo of America’s Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing – will take his place. Bower’s goal is to evolve the brand, further Nintendo’s global mission of creating smiles. If he’s anything like his mentor Reggie, I’m sure he’ll do just that!