Dr Ryuta Kawashima, the Japanese scientist behind Nintendo’s phenomenally successful brain training games, has turn down the chance of making millions of dollars.

Under the terms of his employment contract with Tohoku University, he is entitled to take up to half of the proceeds from worldwide sales of the games. But this self-confessed workaholic has refused to accept a share of the profits, saying he would rather work for a living.

“Not a single yen has gone in my pocket,” he said. “Everyone in my family is mad at me but I tell them that if they want money, go out and earn it.”Dr Kawashima, who is married with four sons, said he was more than happy to live on his salary of around £50,000.

“To hear this may put you off but, my hobby is work,” he said.

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