Nintendo is entering a new chapter as its American subsidiary undergoes a significant leadership transition. Following a strong era of brand expansion and the launch of the Switch 2, the company is ready for a major change that could shape its future.

Leadership transitions at major video game companies often mark the end of one era and the beginning of another. Many expected the release of the Nintendo Switch 2 to coincide with sweeping corporate changes, but the situation turned out differently. After a period of rapid expansion into film and theme parks and substantial growth of its fan base through the Switch ecosystem, 2026 is shaping up to be a year of transformation for Nintendo — particularly in the United States, where a major leadership departure has just been announced.

Just a few hours ago, Nintendo of America (NOA) confirmed that Doug Bowser will retire from his roles as President and Chief Operating Officer on December 31, 2025. His successor will be Devon Pritchard, the current Executive Vice President of Revenue, Marketing, and Consumer Experience, who has been with the company for 19 years. Pritchard will also join NOA’s board of directors and assume an executive role at Nintendo Co.’s global headquarters.

In his farewell statement, Bowser described his tenure as “the honor of a lifetime” and voiced full confidence in Pritchard, who pledged to continue “surprising and delighting” fans while attracting new players. In addition, another leadership change is underway: Satoru Shibata, the former President of Nintendo of Europe and a senior executive at Nintendo Co., will join NOA as CEO while retaining his responsibilities in Kyoto.

Shuntaro Furukawa, Nintendo’s President, expressed gratitude for Bowser’s “numerous contributions”. Bowser, who joined Nintendo in 2015, succeeded Reggie Fils-Aimé in 2019. His leadership focused on guiding the Switch generation — including the U.S. rollout of the Switch 2 — expanding the company’s entertainment ecosystem into theme parks, and establishing a presence in the film industry (Nintendo’s next movie will be Super Mario Galaxy). Pritchard is seen as the ideal successor, thanks to her extensive background in marketing, events, social media, and sales.

Source: 3djuegos