Masahiro Sakurai is one of the most influential figures in the gaming industry, best known for creating Super Smash Bros. and Kirby.
Over the years, he has built a strong financial portfolio through game design, directing, and business ventures.
While many assume most of his earnings come from his work at Nintendo, he has also established Sora Ltd., a company that allows him to work on projects independently.
Additionally, his YouTube channel, Masahiro Sakurai on Creating Games, has provided another income stream.
But how much is he worth in 2025? Let’s take a deep dive into his earnings, salary, and financial standing.
Masahiro Sakurai Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Masahiro Sakurai (桜井 政博) |
| Popular Name | Masahiro Sakurai |
| Birth Date | August 3, 1970 |
| Age | 54 |
| Birthplace | Musashimurayama, Tokyo, Japan |
| Nationality | Japanese |
| Ethnicity | Japanese |
| Education | N/A |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Michiko Sakurai |
| Children | N/A |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Parents | N/A |
| Height | N/A |
| Net Worth | $10 million (estimated) |
| Source of Wealth | Video game design, directing, royalties |
What is the Net Worth of Masahiro Sakurai in 2025?
Masahiro Sakurai’s net worth in 2025 is estimated to be $10 million.
His financial standing is a result of his extensive career in game development, with major contributions to Nintendo’s most successful franchises.
Unlike some game developers, he operates independently under Sora Ltd., giving him more control over his earnings.
Compared to other gaming industry legends, his net worth is modest, but his influence far outweighs his financial standing.
Here are some other industry figures and companies related to him:
- Nintendo
- HAL Laboratory
- Sora Ltd.
- Super Smash Bros. Development Team
- Project Sora
- Shigeru Miyamoto
- Tetsuya Mizuguchi
- Game Developers Conference
- Yuzo Koshiro
- Famitsu
For more insights into the highest-earning creators in the industry, check out our list of the richest celebrities.
Masahiro Sakurai Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Does He Make Money?
Sakurai’s income is derived from multiple sources. His primary earnings come from game development, with Super Smash Bros. and Kirby being his most profitable franchises.
- Royalties & Game Sales: His work with Nintendo generates long-term revenue, especially from Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, which remains a best-seller.
- Freelance Projects: As an independent game designer, he collaborates with different studios, ensuring financial flexibility.
- YouTube Channel: His Masahiro Sakurai on Creating Games channel provides an additional revenue stream through ad revenue and sponsorships.
- Voice Acting: While a minor part of his income, he has voiced King Dedede in multiple games.
His Salary and Career Earnings Over the Years
Sakurai started at HAL Laboratory, where he earned a standard salary for game designers. However, his financial growth skyrocketed when he directed Super Smash Bros. in 1999.
- 1990s: Modest salary from HAL Laboratory, working on Kirby.
- 2000s: Significant earnings from Super Smash Bros. Melee and Brawl.
- 2010s: Expanded income sources with Kid Icarus: Uprising and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.
- 2020s: Added YouTube revenue and potential new projects.
His ability to diversify his income ensures financial stability despite the uncertainties of the gaming industry.
His Business Ventures and Financial Decisions
Sakurai made a critical financial move when he left HAL Laboratory in 2003. This decision allowed him to establish Sora Ltd., giving him creative and financial freedom.
Through Sora Ltd., he has taken on projects like Kid Icarus: Uprising, showing that he isn’t just dependent on Nintendo.
His YouTube venture also reflects his adaptability, leveraging online content as an income source.
His Relationship with Nintendo and Financial Benefits
Despite being independent, Sakurai maintains a strong relationship with Nintendo. This partnership has been mutually beneficial:
- Revenue Sharing: While he doesn’t own Super Smash Bros., he still earns from it.
- Project Funding: Nintendo funds projects like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, reducing his financial risks.
- Creative Control: Unlike full-time Nintendo employees, he enjoys flexibility in project choices.
His Income from YouTube and Other Media Ventures
In 2022, Sakurai launched Masahiro Sakurai on Creating Games, a YouTube channel focusing on game development.
- Earnings from YouTube ads contribute to his total income.
- Sponsorship deals provide additional revenue.
- Industry recognition from this venture may open doors for future projects.
Despite YouTube’s financial limitations, this channel enhances his brand, making him a respected voice in game development.
His Awards and Their Impact on His Financial Success
Sakurai has received several awards that further solidify his reputation.
- Best Creator Award (2022) from Weekly Famitsu.
- Game Design & Visual Arts Award (2023) from the Computer Entertainment Supplier’s Association.
While these awards don’t come with financial prizes, they boost his marketability, ensuring more project opportunities.
His Future Financial Outlook and Potential Projects
Sakurai has hinted at future projects beyond Super Smash Bros.. While details remain unclear, he has expressed interest in new game concepts.
Given his experience and strong industry ties, he is likely to continue earning from game development, ensuring a stable financial future.
Conclusion
Masahiro Sakurai’s net worth reflects his incredible contributions to gaming. While he isn’t the richest in the industry, his financial stability comes from strategic decisions, diverse income streams, and strong collaborations.
Want to stay updated on celebrity finances? Visit andomoney.com for the latest insights! And don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below!
