Legendary Nintendo designer Shigeru Miyamoto will receive Japan’s highest honor for cultural merit. At 73 years old, he is the first video game developer to be awarded the Order of Culture, an honor presented by the Emperor of Japan.
Miyamoto stated that he feels both awkward and deeply honored by the selection. "As I often point out, I don’t create games on my own," he told the press on October 23. "This award is the result of working together with a great number of people, so I will accept it on their behalf."
He also referenced his recent involvement in projects beyond traditional video games, such as the Super Nintendo World attractions at Universal Studios and the upcoming Super Mario Bros. film. "Recently, I’ve been privileged to work with people from many different fields, not just games," Miyamoto added. "I’d like to share the joy of this award with everyone."
Miyamoto, currently Nintendo’s Executive Fellow and Representative Director, joined the company in 1977. He was instrumental in Nintendo's transition into video game development. Beyond creating the Mario franchise, which first appeared in 1981's Donkey Kong, he also played significant roles in the creation of The Legend of Zelda and Star Fox series.
"50 years ago, I became involved in video games, a medium whose form was still very undefined, and I have been fortunate to continue in this line of work ever since," Miyamoto reflected. "I feel like it’s precisely because I’ve been here since the dawn of the industry that I’m being honored in this way, and think I have been incredibly lucky in life."
Japan's Order of Culture recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the development of culture across various fields, including science, literature, and the arts. Past recipients include acclaimed film director Akira Kurosawa, fashion designer Issey Miyake, and composer Akira Ifukube.
The ceremony for Miyamoto and the seven other recipients will be held on November 3, which is Japan's national Culture Day.