Architect of the Switch 2, Doug Bowser retires with succession defined

A central figure in the entertainment expansion era of Nintendo will leave his position. Doug Bowser, President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Nintendo of America (NOA), announced his retirement, effective from December 31, 2025. The departure of an executive credited with the launch of the Switch 2 is a critical moment for the company, despite the transition plan that prioritizes internal leadership.

The retirement of Bowser after more than a decade of service at Nintendo marks the end of a highly successful era for the American division. Under his supervision, Nintendo not only launched the Nintendo Switch and its successor, the Switch 2, but also solidified the expansion into other media, such as the box office success of the Super Mario Bros. Movie and the upcoming live-action adaptation of Legend of Zelda. Nintendo itself acknowledged his impact, stating that Bowser "oversaw the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 in the Americas and helped establish the system as the best-selling video game console of all time in its initial sales period."

Bowser expressed gratitude and confidence in the transition in his statement. He linked his past to his career:

"One of my first experiences in video games was playing the arcade version of Donkey Kong. Since then, everything related to Nintendo has remained a passion for me and my family. Leading Nintendo of America was the honor of a lifetime, and I am proud of what our team has accomplished both in business results and in the experiences we have created for consumers."

The replacement will be managed by industry veterans. Devon Pritchard, an executive with 19 years of industry experience and a long-time member of the leadership team at NOA, will assume the role of COO. Pritchard will also join the Board of Directors of NOA and become an Executive Officer of Nintendo Co. Ltd (NCL). Pritchard's election is a sign of confidence in the internal talent of NOA.

Bowser assured: "Now, it is time for the next generation of leadership, and Devon's track record speaks for itself. She is an exceptional leader, and her promotion is a testament to her strong performance and strategic contributions to the company's growth. I have full confidence that she will lead the company to even greater heights."

The leadership structure of NOA will be strengthened with the arrival of Satoru Shibata as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the American division. Shibata will continue to serve as Managing Executive Officer, Corporate Director, and Board Member at Nintendo Co. Ltd (NCL), ensuring a direct executive connection between the American operations and the Japanese headquarters.

The departure of Doug Bowser from Nintendo of America at the end of 2025 represents the end of a period of great growth, but Nintendo has established a clear succession plan with industry veterans, seeking to ensure the continuity of its business, especially after the successful launch of the Switch 2.