Ademola Busayo 
Legendary video game hardware designer Hideki Sato, widely regarded as the “father of Sega hardware,” has died at the age of 77. Sato’s passing was reported on February 13, 2026, with Japanese gaming outlet Beep21 confirming his death and paying tribute to his influence on global gaming culture.
Sato’s career with Sega began in 1971, and he played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s iconic hardware lineup, from the early SG-1000 to era-defining systems like the Sega Master System, Mega Drive/Genesis, Saturn, and Dreamcast. His work helped establish Sega as a major competitor in the home console and arcade market throughout the 1980s and 1990s.
He later rose to leadership positions within the company, serving as director of Sega’s Research & Development department and eventually as president from 2001 to 2003. Sato’s innovations helped bridge arcade technology with home gaming systems, leaving a legacy cherished by generations of gamers worldwide.
In a statement translated from Japanese, Beep21 described Sato as “a truly great figure who shaped Japanese gaming history and captivated Sega fans all around the world.” The outlet added that “the excitement and pioneering spirit of that era will remain forever in the hearts and memories of countless fans.”
The gaming industry is mourning the loss of one of its most enduring creative forces, as tributes pour in from fans celebrating the memorable consoles and experiences that defined childhoods and gaming culture across decades.
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Emmanuel Femi Adedayo 
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