
He invented the most famous cheat code of all time.
Even if you’re not a gamer, there’s a good chance that you’ve encountered the Konami Code – also known as ‘Up, up, down, down, left, right, left, right, b, a, start.’ It’s easily the most recognizable cheat code in the world of gaming and the guy who invented it, Kazuhisa Hashimoto, has died at the age of 61 years old.
Konami confirmed his death through a tweet, praising the former employee on his contributions to gaming. “We are saddened to hear about the passing of Kazuhisa Hashimoto, a deeply talented producer who first introduced the world to the ‘Konami Code,” the tweet said.
We are saddened to hear about the passing of Kazuhisa Hashimoto, a deeply talented producer who first introduced the world to the "Konami Code".
Our thoughts are with Hashimoto-san's family and friends at this time. Rest In Peace. pic.twitter.com/vQijEQ8lU2
— Konami (@Konami) February 26, 2020
The Konami Code first appeared in 1985’s Gradius, though it quickly became more popular in the classic game Contra and on the NES. A report said that Hashimoto included the code when Contra was ported to the NES so that he playtest the game since it was a difficult one to finish. When the game code was finalized and released, he forgot to remove it, and the rest they say is history. The Konami Code instantly gives you 30 lives when entered, making games like Contra easier to play.
Thank you Hashimoto-san. Rest in Peace.