The video game industry lost a legend earlier this year when Nintendo President Satoru Iwata passed away. Both as a game developer and as the head of the company, Iwata was a beloved figure who touched the lives of millions, with thousands stepping forward to grieve or pay tribute upon hearing the news.

Iwata was a close friend to

Mother creator Shigesato Itoi, who shared a touching eulogy when Iwata passed. Itoi was recently interviewed by Japanese publication Game Watch, and Iwata’s passing was brought up in conversation. Itoi opened up about missing Iwata and the sadness he still feels as he looks ahead to Iwata’s birthday on December 6th.

Question: It’s hard to ask about, but what are you feelings on Mr. Iwata, who passed away in July of this year? Itoi: Just the other day, I was talking to my staff and saying that “if Iwata were here, he’d say something like such and such in this case.” It was a conversation about how I’d love to have Iwata here in various situations, and he’s particularly needed in the baseball industry – stuff like that. (laugh) Sometimes I do an imitation of Iwata’s voice. Iwata’s birthday is coming up, so I’ve been thinking that once more this year I’ll need to talk about some story I can share about Iwata. If I don’t, I feel like that grief everyone is feeling will simply grow. I’d love to have a day where Iwata would come back to us and talk with everyone. I mean, he only passed away this year, you know? Even now I’m still filled with sadness. There’s been nothing like this, even among my own family.

Source: Game Watch (via Tuxedo Umasked)

No

ChannelImages

Our Verdict

Top