RIP Kazuhisa Hasimoto, Creator Of The Konami Code

February 26th, 2020 - 3:05 PM EST by Adam Downer

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Visual representation of the Konami Code

Kazuhisa Hasimoto, creator of the iconic Konami Code, passed away this week at the age of 61. Earlier today, Konami announced Hasimoto's passing in a tweet, writing, "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."

Hasimoto invented the Konami Code while creating the NES port of Gradius. Because he couldn't get through the game while developing it, he created the Konami Code, admitting, "Because I was the one who was going to be using it, I made sure it was easy to remember."

After Gradius, the code became well known as the code to gain 30 extra lives in the notoriously difficult Contra. Thirty-five years since its creation, the Konami Code has appeared in dozens of other games, including Castlevania, Metal Gear Solid and Silent Hill 3.

The code has also become a widely known pop culture reference and easter egg in a variety of products. Inputting the code on various websites will lead to hidden effects; for example, reciting it to Siri will cause her to say "Cheater!" WWE wrestler Xavier Woods' gaming channel, Up Up Down Down, takes its name from the Konami Code.


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