Nintendo of America's new president makes her first public appearance since stepping into the role with a pep talk for devs: "Keep believing, keep playing, and know that you truly belong in this game"

Nintendo's Devon Pritchard has made her first appearance since becoming president of Nintendo of America at the New York Game Awards.

Doug Bowser served six years as Nintendo of America president after taking over from Reggie Fils-Aime, but at the end of 2025, Nintendo said so long, Doug Bowser as he announced his retirement. Starting on January 1, 2026, Pritchard – who joined Nintendo of America in 2006 – stepped into the role of president. And while Bowser made his first appearance as president alongside Mario villain Bowser in an E3 Nintendo Direct, Pritchard's first appearance isn't quite as flashy – or comedic.

The 15th Annual New York Game Awards - YouTube

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As spotted by Stealth40K, at the New York Game Awards – where Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 added another Game of the Year trophy to its overflowing cabinet – co-host Fils-Aime introduced a message from Pritchard.

"Before anything else, I want to celebrate the New York Game Awards," Pritchard says, celebrating "15 years of supporting the games industry, and in doing so, lifting up the voices, stories, and dreams of so many." She continues, saying that the show "connects people who are 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."

Pritchard gives a special shoutout to The New York Videogame Critics Circle's "Playing With Purpose" program, saying it "supports the creators, the coders, the writers, and anyone else dreaming big to join this community and bring all that makes them unique."

Pritchard then leaves current and aspiring developers with a message. "Like any good video game character, you're on an adventure, and every step you take matters. There are some gnarly bosses, sure, but also many good 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."

After 15 years at Nintendo of America, former president Reggie Fils-Aimé didn't get sent a free Switch 2 from the company so he experienced the launch "like a fan" instead.