Nintendo has revealed that Doug Bowser, president and COO of Nintendo of America, will retire at the end of 2025. His departure is scheduled for December 31, closing a tenure marked by the continued success of the Nintendo Switch and the company’s growth into new entertainment ventures.
Bowser, who joined Nintendo in 2015 and became president in 2019, will be succeeded by Devon Pritchard, currently serving as executive vice president of revenue, marketing, and consumer experience. In addition, longtime Nintendo executive Satoru Shibata will take on the role of chief executive officer at Nintendo of America while continuing his responsibilities as managing executive officer, corporate director, and board member at Nintendo’s global headquarters.
In its announcement, Nintendo praised Bowser for helping cement the Switch as a transformative platform that reshaped how players engage with video games. The company also highlighted his role in guiding Nintendo’s expansion beyond gaming, including collaborations in licensed films and theme parks.
Reflecting on his upcoming retirement, Bowser described leading Nintendo of America as “the honor of a lifetime.” He recalled fond memories of playing the original Donkey Kong and expressed pride in what the team has achieved. He also endorsed Pritchard as his successor, citing her proven leadership and strategic impact on the company’s growth.
Bowser’s retirement marks the end of an era for Nintendo of America, as the company prepares for its next chapter under Pritchard and Shibata’s leadership.