Working for the renowned video game company Nintendo may seem like a dream come true for many aspiring game developers. The allure of creating iconic characters and contributing to beloved franchises is undeniable. However, it is important to recognize that the path to success in such a prestigious company is not without its hurdles.
Koichi Miura, an artist with over two decades of experience in the industry, recently shared his perspective on his time at Nintendo. While he acknowledges Nintendo as an incredible company and admires the talent of its staff, he describes his own experience as a challenging adventure. Miura believes that working at Nintendo is better suited for individuals with extraordinary skills in game development, making it a competitive environment for the average person.
Despite the difficulties he faced, Miura emphasizes that his time at Nintendo was not without its benefits. It served as a stint that became a turning point in his career, enabling him to understand his limitations and gain the confidence needed to pursue other goals. While Miura harbors no regrets about aspiring to work for Nintendo, he made the decision to leave the company, recognizing that different paths may lead to success for different individuals.
It is important to note that Miura’s perspective should not be seen as a criticism of Nintendo as a whole. On the contrary, he regards Nintendo as a good company and commends the dedication and talent of its staff. The ability of Nintendo to consistently produce high-quality products is something he greatly admires.
In addition to sharing his personal experiences, Miura shed some light on industry salaries in Japan. As a freelancer, he disclosed earning less than $40,000 during his time at Bandai Namco and over $46,000 while working at Square Enix. However, upon joining Nintendo in 2019, his salary increased to over $70,000. Miura’s transparency regarding salaries aims to promote better working conditions and enhanced transparency within the industry.
While Miura’s journey at Nintendo may differ from others in the game development industry, it provides a valuable glimpse into the challenges faced by those aspiring to work in renowned companies. It serves as a reminder that even in prestigious organizations, the path to success may not always be smooth for everyone. Nevertheless, the experiences gained and the lessons learned along the way can be invaluable in shaping a successful career.