Shigeru Miyamoto Explains Nintendo’s Hiring Process, New Focus on Handing Reins to Younger Developers

A new interview from some key veteran creators at Nintendo has given us further insight into the company’s hiring process.

The interview (via the NY Times) was focused on the initial success of the Nintendo Switch, however it also had some interesting tidbits from Nintendo’s Shinya Takahashi and Shigeru Miyamoto.


They touched upon the tragic loss of former Nintendo President Satoru Iwata. “While we were truly saddened by Iwata’s passing, it came at a time when new leaders were rising in the company,” said Shinya Takahashi, Nintendo EPD General Manager.

Miyamoto, who is currently holding the title of co-Representative Director of Nintendo as well as a Creative Fellow, said that he’s changing up the hierarchy when it comes to the production of their games.

“More and more I am trying to let the younger generation fully take the reins,” Miyamoto said. He also noted that this younger generation of creators has been carefully chosen, noting he’s looking for people who will probably find new ways to play instead of perfecting existing mechanics.

“I always look for designers who aren’t super-passionate game fans… I make it a point to ensure they’re not just a gamer, but that they have a lot of different interests and skill sets,” Miyamoto said. They pointed out some of their new stars had zero experience playing games prior to being hired.

Kosuke Yabuki, a 37-year-old mentee of Mr. Miyamoto, pointed out that despite the new shake ups in their hiring process, this hasn’t changed how their products are developed.

“Our mission remains the same: to find unique ways to explore play,” Yabuki said. “The difference is that, perhaps, now is our time.”

How do you feel about Nintendo and Miyamoto’s approach to hiring new developers? Should there be such a big focus on inventing new styles of gameplay? Or perhaps a balance with tried and true mechanics and totally new ones? Sound off in the comments below!

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