Shigeru Miyamoto does not contemplate retiring

Grace Edwards 03 Jan 2024

Shigeru Miyamoto, the creative genius behind many of Nintendo's most beloved series, is unwavering in his decision to continue working rather than retire. At 71 years old, with a remarkable 46-year tenure at Nintendo, this revered game developer, designer, and executive is determined to keep playing an influential role in the company.

During a conversation with The Guardian, Miyamoto revealed his focus is more on the future and his ability to contribute rather than on retiring. "I'm more concerned with the possibility of a future where I might not be able to work rather than thinking about retirement," he said. "In the times we live in, it's important to plan for the next five years, and I do think about who will carry on after me."

Miyamoto feels a sense of gratitude for the ongoing enthusiasm for his previous works. "It's heartwarming to see such energy and life in the projects I began. They have been embraced and expanded upon by others once they were out in the world – it's as if they are raising them. In this sense, I don't feel like they are solely mine anymore."

Although Miyamoto might not lay exclusive claim to his legendary creations, his connection with characters such as Mario is unmistakable – the relationship between the creator and his iconic plumber is forever sealed in the annals of video game history.