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What is the Story Behind Super Mario?

• Super Mario was first introduced in 1985.
• The franchise has sold over 750 million games worldwide.
• Super Mario Bros. is one of the best-selling video games of all time.
• Mario has appeared in over 200 video games.

The Origin of Super Mario

Super Mario, perhaps the most iconic character in video game history, was created by the legendary game designer Shigeru Miyamoto. His first appearance was in the arcade game Donkey Kong, released in 1981. Although he was known as "Jumpman" in that game, this mustachioed plumber would soon grow to become a symbol of the gaming industry.

The Evolution to Super Mario Bros.

In 1985, Super Mario made his first standalone adventure debut in Super Mario Bros. on the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). This game firmly established Mario as the star of Nintendo's successful franchise. The game introduced us to the fictional Mushroom Kingdom, where Mario and his brother Luigi must rescue Princess Peach, who is held captive by the evil Bowser.

The Global Phenomenon of Super Mario

The success of Super Mario Bros. led to countless sequels, spin-offs, and crossovers. The franchise has become more than just a series of platformers; it now includes racing games, sports games, and even role-playing games. With over 750 million copies sold worldwide, Mario is not only a gaming icon but also a prominent cultural figure.

Why is Super Mario So Popular?

But what is the secret to his popularity? Part of it lies in the timeless appeal of the game design. The games are accessible to beginners but offer enough depth to appeal to seasoned gamers too. The innovative gameplay, charming characters, and unforgettable music have contributed to Mario's status as a beloved hero in the gaming world.

The Cultural Impact of Super Mario

Beyond his gaming successes, Super Mario has had a massive impact on culture. From animated series to comics and a Hollywood movie, Mario has left his mark across various media. His recognizable appearance and optimistic character have captured the hearts of fans worldwide, giving him a lasting influence on pop culture.

Super Mario in the Future

With continued technological innovation, it seems that Mario is far from finished. From Virtual Reality to next-gen consoles, the possibilities for new Super Mario adventures are endless. The ongoing evolution and adaptation of his adventures ensure that Mario remains relevant to both older and new generations of gamers.

Reflecting on Mario's Age

If you're interested in the exact age of Mario, we recommend reading our previous blog titled How Old is Super Mario? Here, we dive specifically into the age of this iconic plumber and how he has evolved over the years.

Conclusion

The story behind Super Mario is one of passion, innovation, and universal appeal. From his beginnings as a simple 'Jumpman' in Donkey Kong, Mario has become a symbol of the gaming industry and an integral part of many people's childhoods. Super Mario's impact on gaming and pop culture is undeniable, and his adventures will likely continue to inspire for generations to come.

Explore Our Super Mario Collection

Inspired by the story of Super Mario and want to experience the magic yourself? Check out our webshop with Super Mario products for a wide range of games, merchandise, and more!