Eurogamer reports that masterful game designer Shigeru Miyamoto is set to be awarded with a knighthood in the Order of Arts and Letters next week by the French Minister of Culture. Though the ceremony will sadly be devoid of pompous accents, damsels in distress and fire-breathing dragons, one can easily draw parallels between the crusades of a knight against an evil king and Mr. Miyamoto's strive for innovation in a tough industry. But really, we just want to picture Shiggy running around in a suit of armor and lopping off limbs (it's only a flesh wound).

He'll be joined on the occasion, which marks a first for game designers, by Frederick Raynal (Alone in the Dark) and the disinctly awesome Michel Ancel (Rayman, Rayman 2, Beyond Good & Evil, King Kong). Though we'd prefer they be rewarded with large cash prizes and instant sequel greenlights, a fancy French knighthood is at least indicative of some well deserved recognition for this trio of extremely talented game designers. Seriously, play their games.

A further note of interest is that, unlike a British knighthood, the recipient of this award does not get to attach a regal "Sir" onto his name. That's quite a disappointment, what with "Sir Shiggy" having such a great ring to it. Are there any other game designers worthy of knighthood?