Sony CEO In Charge During PS2 Era Has Passed Away

Sony has announced that former CEO Nobuyuki Idei passed away on 2 June 2022 in Tokyo, Japan. Idei was 84 years old at the time of his passing. The cause of death was liver failure.

Idei joined Sony back in 1960. Throughout his tenure at the company, he led Sony’s Audio Group, Home Video Group and Creative Communication Division. However, Idei is perhaps best remembered for serving as chairman and CEO from 2000 to 2005, essentially placing Idei at the helm of the PlayStation 2 era.

Take a look back at some of the incredible PlayStation 2 titles that released during Idei's tenure as CEO.

The PlayStation 2 is the best-selling video game console of all time, having sold over 155 million units within its 13 year life span. The console remained popular well after the release of the PlayStation 3, and new PlayStation 2 games were produced right up until the console was retired from production. During its lifetime, over 10,000 games were released for the PlayStation 2. It’s safe to say that Idei spearheaded one of the most important periods in Sony’s history, creating a wonderful legacy to leave behind.

In a statement, Sony’s current chairman, president and CEO Kenichiro Yoshisa said, “Mr. Idei made an immense contribution to Sony's evolution as a global company. In particular, the prescience and foresight with which [he] predicted the impact of the internet, and engaged proactively with digitalisation across Sony amazes me to this day.”

He went on, “I myself served as General Manager of the CEO Strategy Office for two years from 1998, under Mr. Idei. The experiences and learning I gained there were a turning point in my career and life, and in many ways connect directly to my management of Sony today. I will always be deeply grateful to Mr. Idei for his immeasurable contributions and achievements, and pray that he may rest in peace."

A private family funeral has been held for Idei, and his family have requested privacy during this difficult time. Sony will hold a company memorial service in the near future.