Nintendo Loses One of Its Greatest Creators After Almost 4 Decades with the Company

by Ahmed Hassan January 29, 2026

written by Ahmed Hassan January 29, 2026

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Hideki Konno, a veteran game developer at Nintendo for nearly 40 years, is leaving the company. He was instrumental in creating iconic titles like Super Mario Kart and Yoshis Island.
Konno played a significant role as the public face of the Mario Kart series and led the development of Nintendos mobile games, including Super Mario Run.
Konno announced his departure on July 25 through an update on his social media profile, but Nintendo has yet to issue an official statement regarding his exit.
Hideki Konnos work has undeniably had a lasting impact on the gaming world. His departures marks a notable loss for the industry and fans alike.

Departure of Mario Kart’s and Yoshi’s Island Creator Hideki Konno After Nearly Four Decades at Nintendo

Hideki Konno’s exit from Nintendo after nearly 40 years made headlines recently. Joining the company in 1986, Konno contributed to the development of such iconic titles as Super Mario Kart and Yoshi’s Island. He became the public face of the Mario Kart series before leading the development of Nintendo’s mobile games, including Super Mario Run. Konno signaled his departure on July 25 by updating his social media profile, although Nintendo has not released an official statement. Konno’s work has doubtlessly left its mark on the gaming world.