Former Nintendo exec takes over as CEO of Mobliss

Industry veteran and former Nintendo executive Jim Merrick has been appointed president and CEO of Mobliss, the Seattle-based mobile messaging, gaming and content delivery company.

In his new role Merrick will oversee all Mobliss operations, including game licensing and development. Mobliss is best known for providing the proprietary SMS voting platform for hit TV show American Idol, and for bringing brands such as Family Feud, The Price is Right and the New York Times Crossword to US mobile phones.

Merrick's career in the games industry began with a stint at 4D Graphics before he went on to join Nintendo of America. In 2003 he became senior marketing director for Nintendo of Europe, where he remained until earlier this year.

"Mobile phones are a part of everyday life for millions of consumers. That number just keeps growing," Merrick commented.

"Mobliss is a pioneer and already has proven people want to do more than just use phones to chat. They love to play videogames and they love to communicate instantly in many different and edgy ways. Growing this is my sole focus."