"Nintendo is moving into a very exciting and innovative time as we expand the definition of gaming and broaden the population of video games players," Fischer commented. "I am looking forward to the new challenge of working for Nintendo at a European level in this particularly significant period."

In addition, Nintendo reconfirmed its position that Revolution is set for a worldwide roll-out in 2006, adding that Schmauss will be responsible for the pan-European marketing activities for the next-generation home console "which launches in 2006".

Also on Schmauss' remit is overseeing the release of The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, still due for a release on GameCube.