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November 16, 2006
Donkey Kong's and Mario's Dad Turns 54
Shigeru Miyamoto or Shiggy as he is affectionately known, celebrates his 54th birthday today. The creator of memorable characters from Donkey Kong, Mario, Legend of Zelda, Star Fox and Pikmin have quite possibly kept Nintendo going despite the mounting competition from media juggernauts.
He is unofficially credited with reviving the video gaming industry during the mid 80's and is still considered to be THE designer newer stock try and emulate. He is also the first person to be inducted into the Academy of Interactive Arts and Sciences' Hall of Fame. He topped that honor in March of 2006 when the French government Knighted him into the prestigious Ordre des Arts ed des Lettres.
I don't often celebrate birthdays of people I don't know but this man; his creations defined some of what my childhood was. I can't even fathom what it would have been like if I didn't have Mario and friends to turn to after finishing my homework. It helped me come out of my shell by sharing my games with other kids and in turn, make new friends. And to this day, his latest creation - Pikmin leave me in awe of the gorgeous design and addictive puzzling gameplay.
Happy Birthday Shigeru Miyamoto!
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