- Nintendo of America's new president, Devon Pritchard, has made her first official public appearance at the 15th Annual New York Game Awards.
- Pritchard joined Nintendo in 2006 and became Vice President of Revenue, Marketing, and Consumer Experience in 2021.
- She officially took over as president on January 1, 2026, succeeding Doug Bowser.
Devon Pritchard has recently made her first public appearance since assuming the role of Nintendo of America's president earlier this month.
At the 15th Annual New York Game Awards, former Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aimé and New York Times columnist Harold Goldberg introduced Pritchard through a pre-recorded video to celebrate the event and the Playing With Purpose nonprofit writing program.
"Hi everyone, it is great to be here. My name is Devon, and before anything else, I want to celebrate the New York Game Awards. 15 years of supporting the games industry and lifting up the voices, stories, and dreams of so many," Pritchard stated.
She emphasized the importance of the event, saying, "This show connects people united by a shared belief that every dream matters, and that everyone deserves a chance to do meaningful and creative work in games and storytelling. The 'Playing With Purpose' program supports creators, coders, writers, and anyone else dreaming big to join this community and showcase their uniqueness.
"I'm excited to meet you! To hear those stories and to learn from your journeys. And remember, like any good video game character, you're on an adventure, and every step you take matters. There are challenges, but also many friends along the way who will support you, and powerful rewards for those who persevere.
"So keep believing, keep playing, and know that you truly belong in this game."
Pritchard's address at the awards marked her first public appearance since taking over Doug Bowser's role as President and COO of Nintendo of America on January 1, following Bowser's departure at the end of 2025.
But who is Devon Pritchard? The industry veteran has been with Nintendo for 20 years, having joined Nintendo of America in 2006 as head of its legal department.
She subsequently led the company's business affairs and public relations, as well as sales, marketing, and communications, before becoming Vice President of Revenue, Marketing, and Consumer Experience in 2021.
When Bowser announced his retirement in late 2025, he praised Pritchard's extensive history with the company, stating in a statement that "It's time for the next generation of leadership and Devon's track record speaks for itself."
He added, "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."
In addition to her new leadership role, Pritchard has joined Nintendo of America's board of directors and is now an executive officer at Nintendo Company Ltd.
Pritchard will lead Nintendo of America as the company prepares for the launch of the Switch 2, overseeing both the current generation and its future.