Bowser retires to his castle: Doug Bowser to step down as President at Nintendo of America

The Mushroom Kingdom (and the world at large) will be saying goodbye to Doug Bowser, the current president of Nintendo of America, at the end of 2025. Nintendo of America formally announced that Doug's tenure as President and COO (Chief Operating Officer) at Nintendo is coming to an end after more than a decade working in multiple departments for them.

Doug Bowser will be succeeded by Devon Pritchard, who is currently Nintendo of America's Executive Vice President of Revenue, Marketing, and Consumer Experience. Additionally, Satoru Shibata will join NOA as Chief Executive Officer, coming from Nintendo's board of directors.

"One of my earliest video game experiences was playing the arcade version of Donkey Kong. Since that time, all things Nintendo have continued to be a passion for both me and my family. Leading Nintendo of America has been the honor of a lifetime, and I am proud of what our team has accomplished in both business results and the experiences we’ve created for consumers. Now, it’s 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 guide the company to even greater heights.” - Doug Bowser, COO at Nintendo of America 2019-2025.

His tenure of six and a half years included the release of Nintendo's console successor, the Switch 2, as well as multiple new ventures such as the Super Mario Bros. Movie and opening theme parks with Universal Studios. Via Business Wire, Nintendo's press release states Prichard plans to build on the many experience that allow consumers and fans to connect with Nintendo's IP, between video games, entertainment, and retail experiences. She will be taking on Doug Bowser's role of President and joining NOA's Board of Directors in addition to becoming an executive officer at the whole of NCL (Nintendo Co., LTD)

“I am humbled and excited to take on this new role, Doug has been a fantastic mentor, and I look forward to building on the incredible foundation he has helped establish. With characters and worlds that offer something for everyone, my focus will be continuing to build on Nintendo’s legacy of surprising and delighting our longtime fans, while at the same time welcoming new players into the Nintendo family.” - Devon Pritchard, Executive Vice President of Revenue, Marketing and Consumer Experience at Nintendo of America.

Doug Bowser leaves his role as President officially December 31, 2025. There is no word if or when Nintendo will give Devon Pritchard a spot in one of the next Nintendo Directs, as has been customary in the past.