Report: Miyamoto Banned From Discussing Hobbies

Famed Nintendo developer Shigeru Miyamoto's hobbies often translate into new games -- and that's why, according to the UK Times, the company's "banned" him from discussing his hobbies in public, for fear they could spill clues on future Nintendo products. The Times cites unnamed sources at Nintendo about the ban -- however, it also credits him with originating the idea for Brain Training, which is usually attributed to Nintendo president Satoru Iwata. While Miyamoto has often cited childhood experiences as inspiring the likes of Super Mario Bros. and The Legend of Zelda, more recent titles have been attributed to his various hobbies. Miyamoto’s keen interest in gardening was apparently a major inspiration for the Pikmin series, while his love of music, particularly the banjo, has resulted in Wii Music. Previously, Miyamoto has also suggested his experiences with family and friends have provided the inspiration for Wii Fit and Nintendogs. Although Nintendo did reveal a number of new titles at the recent E3 expo, all of the key first party games were either sequels or previously announced titles. As such, and in keeping with its new policy of extended secrecy, the company has not announced any major titles for 2009 beyond Wii Sports Resort in the spring.