Doug Bowser Joins Hasbro Board After Nintendo Retirement

Doug Bowser, the former president of Nintendo of America, is taking the next step in his career by joining Hasbro’s board of directors, just weeks after retiring from Nintendo at the end of 2025. The move has sparked curiosity among gamers and investors alike, as Bowser brings years of experience leading one of the world’s most influential gaming companies.

Hasbro’s announcement didn’t detail Bowser’s specific role, but insiders see this as a strategic addition as the company ramps up its focus on gaming. Bowser’s history with Nintendo—overseeing major product launches, expansions, and even a blockbuster film—positions him as a valuable asset for Hasbro’s ambitious plans.

Hasbro Eyes Expansion Into Video Games

Hasbro has traditionally been known for its iconic toys and board games, but the company has been steadily moving into the gaming industry. Its intellectual properties, including Magic: The Gathering and Dungeons & Dragons, have already been adapted into video games, and Hasbro executives have hinted at developing its first in-house video game this year.

With Bowser joining the board, the company gains someone who has firsthand experience guiding a gaming powerhouse through product launches, global expansions, and entertainment tie-ins. His insights are expected to help Hasbro navigate the competitive landscape and establish a stronger presence in digital gaming.

Bowser’s Impact at Nintendo

Bowser became president of Nintendo of America in 2019, succeeding Reggie Fils-Aimé. During his tenure, he oversaw some of Nintendo’s most high-profile achievements, including the launch of the Switch 2, the opening of Super Nintendo World in California and Florida, and Nintendo’s successful expansion into the film industry.

The release of The Super Mario Bros. Movie alone brought in over $1 billion, proving that Bowser’s leadership extended beyond traditional gaming. His strategies emphasized cross-platform growth, blending physical products, digital games, and entertainment content to strengthen the Nintendo brand worldwide.

Transitioning Leadership at Nintendo

Nintendo announced Bowser’s retirement in September 2025, with Devon Pritchard, former executive vice president of NoA, stepping into the role. While Bowser has officially left Nintendo, his influence remains visible through ongoing projects and the momentum he helped create.

Industry experts believe Bowser’s transition to Hasbro signals a new era for the toy and gaming giant, combining his experience in gaming, entertainment, and brand strategy to guide Hasbro’s expansion.

What This Means for Hasbro

Hasbro is positioning itself as a company ready to compete in the growing intersection of toys, games, and digital entertainment. By bringing Bowser onto its board, the company strengthens its leadership with someone who understands both gaming culture and global product launches.

Gamers and investors will likely watch closely as Hasbro moves forward with new initiatives. Bowser’s track record suggests the company could see a mix of traditional and digital growth, potentially developing original games that capitalize on its existing intellectual properties.

Doug Bowser’s move from Nintendo to Hasbro marks a significant moment in the gaming and toy industries. As Hasbro charts its future, the guidance of a seasoned executive like Bowser could help shape a new chapter of innovation, digital expansion, and cross-platform entertainment for the company.