Sega honors co-founder David Rosen, a “true pioneer” of gaming, who has passed away at 95: “His contributions will never be forgotten.”

The gaming world has recently lost a legend in David Rosen, one of the co-founders of Sega, who had been a significant figure in the industry since 1957. He passed away on December 25, 2025, at the age of 95, and the home of Sonic the Hedgehog has honored a man who was crucial to the company’s foundation.

“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of David Rosen, one of the founders of Sega, and a true pioneer in the video game industry,” Sega shared on social media. “We extend our condolences to the family, friends, and acquaintances of Mr. Rosen, and we will always cherish his contributions to our company.”

Rosen’s journey was remarkable; he joined the US Air Force at 18 and was stationed in Japan during the Korean War. In 1954, he launched his own venture, Rosen Enterprises, initially focused on artwork and photography before shifting to the emerging market of coin-operated entertainment machines in the late ’50s.

The success of Rosen Enterprises led to a merger with Nihon Goraku Bussan, forming Sega, with Rosen taking the helm as CEO and managing director. Under his leadership, the company expanded its offerings to include a variety of games and entertainment devices, such as pinball machines and jukeboxes, thriving in the process.

As the ’80s rolled in and home consoles began to chip away at arcade profits, Sega made the strategic move to enter the home gaming market, introducing the Master System and the iconic Blue Blur, Sonic. Rosen played a vital role in Sega’s operations until the mid-’90s, helping establish Sega of America, where he served as chairman, before retiring from his roles in 1996.

It’s difficult to envision the gaming landscape today without Rosen’s influence. He not only witnessed the joy his creations brought to countless players but also saw Sonic become a Hollywood sensation, ensuring that his legacy will endure for generations.