User blog comment:Exotoro/Iwata has passed away/@comment-1414871-20150713004316

I am positively gutted. I have always stood by Mr. Iwata as Nintendo's leader -- it warmed my heart that the company was led by a creative rather than a suit. He always struck me as immensely thoughtful, deliberate and as innovative as he was humble. Listening to Iwata, I got the sense of a man who genuinely cared about the work that came from the company he led. This man contributed greatly to works such as EarthBound, Kirby, Super Smash Bros., Pokemon, the Wii, the DS series and the Wii U, not to mention his contributions to creative, straightforward, and intelligent communication, as he spearheaded projects such as Iwata Asks, Nintendo Direct and the transition into a digital E3. Video games owe him more than many folks might realize, and I consider the man a genius in his way.

Now that he's gone, it's the first time in more than 5 years as a fan that I worry for Nintendo's future. His was a steady and mindful guiding hand, and he will be missed. Immensely missed, as a leader and as a person.

My heart goes out to those close to him. He had so many more years to contribute.