Devon Pritchard made her first public appearance as Nintendo of America’s president on January 18 during the 15th annual New York Game Awards at Manhattan’s SVA Theatre.
The executive, who took office on January 1, delivered a video message emphasizing inclusivity and opportunity in the gaming industry, marking a historic moment as the first woman to hold the position in the company’s North American branch.
The new president’s message centered on empowerment and accessibility. During her address, Pritchard congratulated the New York Videogame Critics Circle on 15 years of elevating voices in the industry and highlighted a core belief: every dream matters, and everyone deserves meaningful work in games and storytelling.
She specifically mentioned the Playing with Purpose program, which supports creators, programmers, and writers aspiring to join the gaming community with their unique perspectives.
Devon Pritchard gave her first statement as Nintendo of America’s new President at the New York Game Awards!
“Every dream matters. Everyone deserves to do meaningful work in gaming and storytelling.” pic.twitter.com/e50bVKLtey
— Stealth (@Stealth40k) January 19, 2026
Two decades building Nintendo’s success
Pritchard’s journey at Nintendo spans 20 years, starting in 2006 when she joined as head of the legal department during the transition from president Tatsumi Kimishima to Reggie Fils-Aimé.
Her career trajectory took her through leadership roles in marketing, business affairs, and publisher relations. In November 2021, she became acting executive vice president of sales, marketing, and communications, a position made permanent in July 2022.
In that role, she oversaw strategy and execution across the United States and Canada, contributing to major Nintendo Switch launches including Pokémon Legends: Arceus, Kirby and the Forgotten Land, and Nintendo Switch Sports.
Before joining Nintendo, Pritchard earned her bachelor’s degree in biological sciences from Kansas State University, where she played on the volleyball team, and obtained her doctorate in law from Gonzaga University School of Law in 2001.
In addition to her role as president and COO of Nintendo of America, she was also promoted to executive director of Nintendo Co., Ltd.
Passing the torch
The New York Game Awards appearance was particularly significant as it featured former Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aimé, who co-hosted the ceremony alongside NYVGCC founder Harold Goldberg and co-host Makeda Byfield.
Fils-Aimé, beloved in the gaming community for his charismatic leadership, participated in a fireside chat discussing his time at Nintendo and Pritchard’s rise to the presidency, stating that Nintendo is in good hands.
The event also honored The Pokémon Company with the Andrew Yoon Legend Award as part of the franchise’s 30th anniversary, while Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 took home Game of the Year.
Pritchard closed her message by expressing excitement about meeting the community, hearing their stories, and learning about their journeys in the industry.
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