Nintendo of America's New President Delivers Inspiring Message to Developers

Devon Pritchard's first public appearance as president focused on supporting the games industry's creators.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 12:07pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Nintendo of America has a new president, Devon Pritchard, who recently made her first public appearance in the role at the New York Game Awards. In a recorded message, Pritchard praised the event for supporting the games industry and lifting up the voices of creators. She highlighted the work of the New York Videogame Critics Circle, especially its Playing With Purpose program that helps aspiring developers join the community. Pritchard addressed developers directly, encouraging them to keep believing, keep playing, and know they truly belong in the industry, despite the challenges they may face.

Why it matters

Pritchard's message signals a shift in Nintendo of America's leadership, with a focus on supporting the games industry's creative community. As a long-time Nintendo employee, her words carry weight and suggest the company values the people who actually make games, not just the products themselves.

The details

Devon Pritchard assumed the role of president of Nintendo of America on January 1, 2026, following the retirement of Doug Bowser. Pritchard's introduction was more understated than Bowser's, but her message was impactful. During the New York Game Awards ceremony, where the game Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 won Game of the Year, former Nintendo president Reggie Fils-Aime introduced a recorded message from Pritchard. In the message, Pritchard praised the event for supporting the games industry and lifting up the voices of creators. She highlighted the work of the New York Videogame Critics Circle, especially its Playing With Purpose program that helps aspiring developers join the community. Pritchard then addressed developers directly, encouraging them to keep believing, keep playing, and know they truly belong in the industry, despite the challenges they may face.

  • Pritchard assumed the role of president of Nintendo of America on January 1, 2026.
  • Pritchard's message was delivered during the New York Game Awards ceremony in 2026.

The players

Devon Pritchard

The new president of Nintendo of America, who has been with the company since 2006.

Doug Bowser

The former president of Nintendo of America, who led the company for six years after succeeding Reggie Fils-Aime.

Reggie Fils-Aime

The former president of Nintendo of America, who co-hosted the New York Game Awards ceremony where Pritchard's message was delivered.

New York Videogame Critics Circle

An organization that supports the games industry and helps lift up the voices of creators.

Playing With Purpose

An educational outreach program run by the New York Videogame Critics Circle that helps aspiring developers join the games industry community.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Before anything else, I want to celebrate the New York Game Awards. Fifteen years of supporting the games industry, and in doing so, lifting up the voices, stories, and dreams of so many.”

— Devon Pritchard, President of Nintendo of America (GeekTyrant)

“The New York Videogame Critics Circle's Playing With Purpose program supports the creators, the coders, the writers, and anyone else dreaming big to join this community and bring all that makes them unique.”

— Devon Pritchard, President of Nintendo of America (GeekTyrant)

“Like any good video game character, you're on an adventure, and every step you take matters. There are some gnarly bosses, sure, but also many good friends along the way who will support you, and powerful rewards for those who persevere. So keep believing, keep playing, and know that you truly belong in this game.”

— Devon Pritchard, President of Nintendo of America (GeekTyrant)

The takeaway

Pritchard's message as the new president of Nintendo of America signals a shift in the company's leadership, with a focus on supporting the games industry's creative community. Her words suggest Nintendo values the people who make games, not just the products themselves, and that the company is committed to helping aspiring developers join and thrive in the industry.