"I am surprised at this sudden news and overcome with sadness."
This has been the official reaction from Shigeru Miyamoto, Nintendo's creative leader, at this morning's shocking news on Satoru Iwata's passing due to cancer. The statement, issued by Nintendo in Japan, reflects the shock many in the industry have expressed.
Both Miyamoto (software creative leader) and Genyo Takeda (hardware creative leader) will temporarily take care of the company for now as representative directors, with the former stating he will keep the same creative vision and business strategy recently outlined with Iwata-san for short and mid-term plans.
Many in the industry have offered their own messages at Iwata's passing, with the same quote - Iwata's own - being repeatedly echoed across social media:
"On my business card, I am a corporate president. In my mind, I am a game developer. But in my heart, I am a gamer".
Here's a few selection of other quotes and reactions from the gaming industry, mainly via Twitter:
"Nintendo of Europe is today mourning the passing of Mr Satoru Iwata, Nintendo's Global President. It is difficult to put into words the sadness we feel at this time. Mr. Iwata was a strong leader, a unique figure in the gaming industry and an important part of Nintendo's history. He was a visionary in every sense of the word and we will miss him dearly. Just as Mr. Iwata challenged us to always push forward, we will ensure his legacy lives on through our ongoing work to always surprise and delight our fans. At this time our thoughts are with his family." - Satoru Shibata, Nintendo of Europe President (via Videogamer).
"Thank you for everything, Mr. Iwata." - PlayStation official channel.
"Sad day for Iwata-san's family, friends, and gamers everywhere. His passion, creativity & leadership elevated our industry." - Phil Spencer, Xbox boss at Microsoft.
"Mr. Iwata's contributions to the industry were immeasurable. Thank you for inspiring us all." - Activision official channel.
"We lost a great voice and passionate guiding light for the games industry today. Iwata-san, your work will live on. Thank you." - 2K Games official channel.
"Please, I don't understand. #ThankYouIwata" - Markus "Notch" Persson.
"In my heart forever." - Hideki Kamiya.
This NeoGaf thread has further reactions and quotes from across the industry.