“It’s Fun, So It’s Okay!” – Celebrating Takashi Tezuka’s Astonishing 40-Year Nintendo Career

Takashi Tezuka: The Jovial Genius of Nintendo

Takashi Tezuka exudes a sense of joy and mischief that sets him apart from his counterparts at Nintendo. While Shigeru Miyamoto may be revered for his work, Tezuka’s lighthearted approach to game design has left a lasting impact on the industry.

Early Beginnings

Tezuka’s journey at Nintendo began over 40 years ago, starting with a part-time gig on Super Punch-Out!! during his university days. His foray into game design was more about a fascination with leisure and recreation than a love for video games. Despite his lack of experience, Tezuka quickly rose through the ranks, eventually landing a full-time role at Nintendo in 1984.

“I can still clearly remember Tezuka-san joining the company. Miyamoto-san brought him to the office to introduce him to everyone. That was back when Tezuka-san was still really slim… (laughs)” – Toshihiko Nakago — Image: Nintendo

Tezuka’s collaboration with Miyamoto on Super Mario Bros. marked the beginning of a fruitful partnership that would shape the future of Nintendo. His sociable nature and innovative ideas played a crucial role in the development of iconic games like The Legend of Zelda.

Legacy in the Making

Over the years, Tezuka’s influence extended to various Nintendo franchises, including Zelda, Mario Kart, and Yoshi. His commitment to creating engaging and imaginative gameplay experiences has been a driving force in Nintendo’s success.

Takashi Tezuka Select Gameography — A *tiny* selection of his gameography. Just a couple of classics, then — *Image: Nintendo / GDC*

Despite his remarkable achievements, Tezuka remains dedicated to his craft, emphasizing the importance of creating games that resonate with players on a deep level. His passion for game design shines through in every project he undertakes, ensuring that each game becomes a cherished treasure for players.

Forever a Game Designer at Heart

After four decades at Nintendo, Tezuka’s love for game design remains as strong as ever. His commitment to creating memorable and enjoyable gaming experiences has solidified his status as a legend in the industry.