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A Tribute: To Mario.
Mario, in my view, is the most influential games’ mascot in the world. He started off the whole plat-forming sensation in his game debut: Super Mario Land, created by non-other than Shigeru Myamoto himself. Other games’ developers instantly followed his footsteps with games like Sonic, from Nintendo rivals: Sega. So many games were created after Mario’s debut that it is impossible to know how many there actually were.
Mario, Nintendo’s world-popular plumber in those red dungarees - was an instant celebrity in the young gaming industry. He started his life under the immensely talented watch of Shigeru Myamoto, who was also soon to become famous for other now famous and classic titles (i.e Zelda). He was heading for a very interesting and entertaining life; one that would see him in a whole hoard of fabulously inventive and original games that would take him further into depths of fame. I’ll try and inform you all of every single game he has starred in, if I miss some out, that would be where you lot come in and help me out.
Right, I’ll start off by looking back when the NES was the ‘in thing’ and when Mario begun his journey to becoming my favourite video game character of all time. And I’ll also give a rating out of 10, just to show you EXACTLY how good it was.
THE NES ERA!!
Super Mario Bros.
Ah yes, the old classic. Mario’s first ever game. The time when Mario was a simple 2-d, jumping-red Italian plumber with one objective on his mind: Rescue the Princess! In this old, classic, blocky plat-former, you see Mario jumping around side-scrolling levels filled with multiple enemies that only die if they are jumped on the head. You could increase your chances of completing the level by collecting mushrooms that had a special ability of making Mario bigger, and then giving you a seconded chance if you were to get hit by the enemy. When I was playing on my N64, I had a sudden craving to stop playing Super Mario 64 and go back to the good old days of Super Mario Bros. on the NES. Actually I still like it even now – where only your own skills can help you through to the end. It’s so easy to play and get into that it is still one of my favourite games! It just oozes playability.
This deserves an 7/10 – classic.
Super Mario Bros. 2.
This game is totally different from the first. Not only do you have the option to play as Mario, but Peach, Luigi and Toad as well! And it doesn’t just involve jumping around levels on top of enemies’ heads either...no, you can pick objects such as carrots, tiny parsnip-looking things, other fruit/vegetables and the odd deceiving shrub that turns out to be a bomb. It’s not as good as the first in my opinion, because the graphics looked slightly dodgy and the game play just didn’t seem as smooth and addictive. Also, unfortunately it became very boring after a while; it simply didn’t grab your attention as well as the original did. Not the best of Mario games for me!
This deserves something around the 5/10 mark, or even 4/10. Oops!
Super Mario Bros. 3.
To be honest with you, I don’t know much about this game. But what I do know is good. You’re just Mario again and you have yet again, the objective of rescuing the Princess. However, like it’s predecessors, Super Mario 3 has its new items and bonuses, stages and worlds. Instead of either jumping onto a flags-pole, or defeating a mini-boss as the end of a level, this one has you entering a black area with a fast rotating block in the middle of it. All you have to do is jump up and hit the rotating block to receive a random item and thus completing the stage. However, there are new, original items to discover. Some being the leaf – a special, rare item that turns you into a Racoon. But of course you get a new ability to go with it! This being one of the best items in the game, the new ability is satisfyingly good. You are able to hover all the while until you come in contact with the ground; but that’s still not it – if you utilise this item well, new areas can be discovered, better items can be obtained, and even secret levels are opened with this beauty at your hands. So now, previously out-of-reach areas are reachable!
There are also other items like this. The Hammer Bros. suit, turns you into a replica of a Hammer Bros. and you happily have the ability to throw those horrid little hammers that those irritating monkeys (Hammer Bros.) have. Along with these are other fabulous items for your enjoyment.
This deserves a high mark, higher than the original – 8/10. A brilliant 2D plat-former with a host of new features that gave SNES Mario-games an excellent kick-start.
Dr Mario.
I know little of this puzzler, but all I know from a dear friend is that it has to be one of the worst games Mario has ever starred in. All I know is that it’s a lot like Tetris...is that right? However, Mario is the little bloke on the side of the screen that is supposedly controlling the direction and rotations of the blocks; but we all know how REALLY controls the blocks...:D As I don’t like Tetris and this version is seemingly the same apart from a few extras, it wouldn’t be a favourite of mine. Well, not EVERY video game character is perfect, eh? :-)
Hmm, this will have to be awarded 3/10 for being boring and unimaginative.
Mario also featured in a few other NES games you know. He was the referee in Super Punch out and the umpire in the Tennis game. Good old Mario – pops up everywhere, doesn’t he?
GAMEBOY!
Super Mario Land.
Mario inevitably was the launch game for this record-breaking hand-held system and it was also a surprisingly good launch game at that. Similar to the first Mario game on the NES, you controlled a simple jumping, blocky Mario who virtually had the same idea on his mind: to rescue the Princess. Much like the first Mario, it oozed playability and was extremely addictive. But being on the Gameboy and all, the graphics were poor and you had to sit in the right position to catch light – meaning you couldn’t enjoy the game as much as you could if you were playing it with a Television.
This smart game deserves 6.5/10 ;-)
He also starred in Super Mario Land 2 – 6 golden coins. But I’ve never played it so I can’t tell you what it was like!
THE SNES ERA!
Super Mario World.
Kick-started by Mario 3 on the NES, Super Mario World involves advancing from between worlds on a birds-eye view of a very big map. This game actually consists of a total of 96 levels! To completely complete this mammoth of a game would be quite an achievement. I think, I’m not sure, but you have the option to be Mario, Toad, Peach and Luigi again, like in the Super Mario 2 on the NES. However, this one is greatly improved, but not all of the aspects are covered. It’s smoother, prettier and has a lot more detail than the past Mario games, But that’s because it’s on the SNES. The game does have flaws, as every game does unfortunately. It is slightly too sensitive to the touch and also a bit too fast for my liking. Fortunately this one is more enjoyable than any other and gains marks.
I award it a good, all-round 8/10.
Yet another game that I have little knowledge of is Super Mario World 2 – Yoshi’s Story. I know that you play as Mario’s new baby son: Baby Mario who rides on Yoshi’s bak throughout the game. Anyone played it?
Super Mario Kart.
Well, where can I start, eh? Generally viewed as a novelty item because it has the reputation of being the best racing game ever – but do you agree? I do. It is unbeatable. It is that little bit better than the N64 version purely because of its revolutionary game play. It might not have the graphics but has the ability to grip and entertain ANYONE who picks up the control pad – it’s that good! Super Mario Kart is a must have for any true gamer – even if you’re not a fan of racing games.
Virtually the perfect racing game, but not quite, nothing is perfect. It deserves 9.5/10.
N64 ERA!
It’s pointless to review ALL of the N64 games that Mario starred in, but I’ll tell you of them. ALL of the following games are purely class and have that amazingly good feeling that only Mario games can bring.
Mario Tennis, Mario Kart, Mario Golf, Mario 64, Smash Bros., Mario Party 1, 2 and 3 and Paper Mario – all fantastic first class, must-buy games and have absolutely no serious falts whatsoever. I still play them now and I’m sure many other Nintendo fans do as well.
Well, because this was beginning to get too long for comfort, I thought I might end it here. I obviously admire Mario and his games – he is my favourite character of all time. He cheers me up because of his bright red colour, and his cheery, happy look.
Your views are wanted and will be respected! :D Who’s your favourite character? What is the best game he/she stars in?
Thanks for reading at least half of it! :D
Shocktrooper.
Mario, in my view, is the most influential games’ mascot in the world. He started off the whole plat-forming sensation in his game debut: Super Mario Land, created by non-other than Shigeru Myamoto himself. Other games’ developers instantly followed his footsteps with games like Sonic, from Nintendo rivals: Sega. So many games were created after Mario’s debut that it is impossible to know how many there actually were.
Mario, Nintendo’s world-popular plumber in those red dungarees - was an instant celebrity in the young gaming industry. He started his life under the immensely talented watch of Shigeru Myamoto, who was also soon to become famous for other now famous and classic titles (i.e Zelda). He was heading for a very interesting and entertaining life; one that would see him in a whole hoard of fabulously inventive and original games that would take him further into depths of fame. I’ll try and inform you all of every single game he has starred in, if I miss some out, that would be where you lot come in and help me out.
Right, I’ll start off by looking back when the NES was the ‘in thing’ and when Mario begun his journey to becoming my favourite video game character of all time. And I’ll also give a rating out of 10, just to show you EXACTLY how good it was.
THE NES ERA!!
Super Mario Bros.
Ah yes, the old classic. Mario’s first ever game. The time when Mario was a simple 2-d, jumping-red Italian plumber with one objective on his mind: Rescue the Princess! In this old, classic, blocky plat-former, you see Mario jumping around side-scrolling levels filled with multiple enemies that only die if they are jumped on the head. You could increase your chances of completing the level by collecting mushrooms that had a special ability of making Mario bigger, and then giving you a seconded chance if you were to get hit by the enemy. When I was playing on my N64, I had a sudden craving to stop playing Super Mario 64 and go back to the good old days of Super Mario Bros. on the NES. Actually I still like it even now – where only your own skills can help you through to the end. It’s so easy to play and get into that it is still one of my favourite games! It just oozes playability.
This deserves an 7/10 – classic.
Super Mario Bros. 2.
This game is totally different from the first. Not only do you have the option to play as Mario, but Peach, Luigi and Toad as well! And it doesn’t just involve jumping around levels on top of enemies’ heads either...no, you can pick objects such as carrots, tiny parsnip-looking things, other fruit/vegetables and the odd deceiving shrub that turns out to be a bomb. It’s not as good as the first in my opinion, because the graphics looked slightly dodgy and the game play just didn’t seem as smooth and addictive. Also, unfortunately it became very boring after a while; it simply didn’t grab your attention as well as the original did. Not the best of Mario games for me!
This deserves something around the 5/10 mark, or even 4/10. Oops!
Super Mario Bros. 3.
To be honest with you, I don’t know much about this game. But what I do know is good. You’re just Mario again and you have yet again, the objective of rescuing the Princess. However, like it’s predecessors, Super Mario 3 has its new items and bonuses, stages and worlds. Instead of either jumping onto a flags-pole, or defeating a mini-boss as the end of a level, this one has you entering a black area with a fast rotating block in the middle of it. All you have to do is jump up and hit the rotating block to receive a random item and thus completing the stage. However, there are new, original items to discover. Some being the leaf – a special, rare item that turns you into a Racoon. But of course you get a new ability to go with it! This being one of the best items in the game, the new ability is satisfyingly good. You are able to hover all the while until you come in contact with the ground; but that’s still not it – if you utilise this item well, new areas can be discovered, better items can be obtained, and even secret levels are opened with this beauty at your hands. So now, previously out-of-reach areas are reachable!
There are also other items like this. The Hammer Bros. suit, turns you into a replica of a Hammer Bros. and you happily have the ability to throw those horrid little hammers that those irritating monkeys (Hammer Bros.) have. Along with these are other fabulous items for your enjoyment.
This deserves a high mark, higher than the original – 8/10. A brilliant 2D plat-former with a host of new features that gave SNES Mario-games an excellent kick-start.
Dr Mario.
I know little of this puzzler, but all I know from a dear friend is that it has to be one of the worst games Mario has ever starred in. All I know is that it’s a lot like Tetris...is that right? However, Mario is the little bloke on the side of the screen that is supposedly controlling the direction and rotations of the blocks; but we all know how REALLY controls the blocks...:D As I don’t like Tetris and this version is seemingly the same apart from a few extras, it wouldn’t be a favourite of mine. Well, not EVERY video game character is perfect, eh? :-)
Hmm, this will have to be awarded 3/10 for being boring and unimaginative.
Mario also featured in a few other NES games you know. He was the referee in Super Punch out and the umpire in the Tennis game. Good old Mario – pops up everywhere, doesn’t he?
GAMEBOY!
Super Mario Land.
Mario inevitably was the launch game for this record-breaking hand-held system and it was also a surprisingly good launch game at that. Similar to the first Mario game on the NES, you controlled a simple jumping, blocky Mario who virtually had the same idea on his mind: to rescue the Princess. Much like the first Mario, it oozed playability and was extremely addictive. But being on the Gameboy and all, the graphics were poor and you had to sit in the right position to catch light – meaning you couldn’t enjoy the game as much as you could if you were playing it with a Television.
This smart game deserves 6.5/10 ;-)
He also starred in Super Mario Land 2 – 6 golden coins. But I’ve never played it so I can’t tell you what it was like!
THE SNES ERA!
Super Mario World.
Kick-started by Mario 3 on the NES, Super Mario World involves advancing from between worlds on a birds-eye view of a very big map. This game actually consists of a total of 96 levels! To completely complete this mammoth of a game would be quite an achievement. I think, I’m not sure, but you have the option to be Mario, Toad, Peach and Luigi again, like in the Super Mario 2 on the NES. However, this one is greatly improved, but not all of the aspects are covered. It’s smoother, prettier and has a lot more detail than the past Mario games, But that’s because it’s on the SNES. The game does have flaws, as every game does unfortunately. It is slightly too sensitive to the touch and also a bit too fast for my liking. Fortunately this one is more enjoyable than any other and gains marks.
I award it a good, all-round 8/10.
Yet another game that I have little knowledge of is Super Mario World 2 – Yoshi’s Story. I know that you play as Mario’s new baby son: Baby Mario who rides on Yoshi’s bak throughout the game. Anyone played it?
Super Mario Kart.
Well, where can I start, eh? Generally viewed as a novelty item because it has the reputation of being the best racing game ever – but do you agree? I do. It is unbeatable. It is that little bit better than the N64 version purely because of its revolutionary game play. It might not have the graphics but has the ability to grip and entertain ANYONE who picks up the control pad – it’s that good! Super Mario Kart is a must have for any true gamer – even if you’re not a fan of racing games.
Virtually the perfect racing game, but not quite, nothing is perfect. It deserves 9.5/10.
N64 ERA!
It’s pointless to review ALL of the N64 games that Mario starred in, but I’ll tell you of them. ALL of the following games are purely class and have that amazingly good feeling that only Mario games can bring.
Mario Tennis, Mario Kart, Mario Golf, Mario 64, Smash Bros., Mario Party 1, 2 and 3 and Paper Mario – all fantastic first class, must-buy games and have absolutely no serious falts whatsoever. I still play them now and I’m sure many other Nintendo fans do as well.
Well, because this was beginning to get too long for comfort, I thought I might end it here. I obviously admire Mario and his games – he is my favourite character of all time. He cheers me up because of his bright red colour, and his cheery, happy look.
Your views are wanted and will be respected! :D Who’s your favourite character? What is the best game he/she stars in?
Thanks for reading at least half of it! :D
Shocktrooper.
Page:
Ahh - that's what I want to see...my topic with a lush gold background :D
Oh dear.
Oh dear oh dear.
Something went wrong didn't it!
Oh darn. I must of missed the mistake when copying and pasting from Word!
Sorry SR, hope this still wins.
It wasn't on purpose - honestly.
Thanks joe_poly, I wouldn't of noticed.
:-(
Shocktrooper - in dismay at not realising he made a huge mistake!
Oh dear oh dear.
Something went wrong didn't it!
Oh darn. I must of missed the mistake when copying and pasting from Word!
Sorry SR, hope this still wins.
It wasn't on purpose - honestly.
Thanks joe_poly, I wouldn't of noticed.
:-(
Shocktrooper - in dismay at not realising he made a huge mistake!
Shocktrooper wrote:
> Excuse me? NES stuff twice?
You're wrong matey.
It was long.
> But good.
Did you think it was good?
yes i did like it. but look closley you put the nes stuff twice. the first time it says gameboy it has the opening paragraph again then the NES stuff i am right
> Excuse me? NES stuff twice?
You're wrong matey.
It was long.
> But good.
Did you think it was good?
yes i did like it. but look closley you put the nes stuff twice. the first time it says gameboy it has the opening paragraph again then the NES stuff i am right
Excuse me? NES stuff twice?
You're wrong matey.
It was long. But good.
Did you think it was good?
You're wrong matey.
It was long. But good.
Did you think it was good?
one of the reasons that shocktroopers post looks longer is that it's got the opening paragraph and all the nes stuff twice in it.
Nice Tribute.
slik ~_~
slik ~_~
Sorry Chr!stos, I don't regularly visit this forum, so I wouldn't of known.
I hope you don't think I copied you. :-)
Did you like mine?
I hope you don't think I copied you. :-)
Did you like mine?
I did one similar to this ages ago - here it is!:
In an era where reality gaming is becoming more and more important, what makes Mario stay so famous?
You won’t find anyone these days who won’t instantly recognise Mario - what makes him stand out from the likes of Sonic and other well known characters?
Well most people know that Mario was the creation of Shigeru Miyamoto who also has the credit for creating Link.
Due to the hardware limitations of early consoles, Mario’s design was merely convenient as it was easier to draw a hat and moustache than hair and a mouth.
Shigeru Miyamoto (or Shigsy as he will now be called) originally called his chubby Italian plumber from the Bronx ‘Jumpman’ but it was changed to Mario when the President of Nintendo of America discovered that he looked like the landlord of their office space. So the name changed and has stuck ever since!
Since Mario was called to the Mushroom Kingdom with his twin brother Luigi, loads of other characters have been introduced, good and evil.
Here’s a list of his fellow friends:
Luigi:
First Game Appearance : Mario Bros.
Mario’s Twin Brother. He unfortunately has never been truly appreciated as much as his brother. He shares the same graphical looks as his brother as again it was easier to draw him with a hat and moustache.
And another thing: At first, Luigi was just a clone of his brother just with different clothes. It was later on that he became taller and thinner than his fat brother.
Princess Peach:
First Game Appearance: Super Mario Bros.
Peach is the typical "helpless victim - save her!" type of person, as she has been kidnapped over twelve times first by evil now turned good Donkey Kong and just pure evil Bowser. She was actually first called Pauline in Donkey Kong, then was known as Daisy. She confused gamers though in Super Mario 64 when she signed a letter as ‘Peach’. The name has stuck.
And another thing: As well as her past-times of baking cakes and shouting out ‘help!’, Peach changed her long dress to a short miniskirt after Mario 64 as it was easier (obviously) to take part in her sporting career as a tennis and golf professional.
Yoshi:
First Game Appearance: Super Mario World.
Yoshi comes from Yoshi’s Island and is one of a unique dinosaurlike species. Yoshi can only say one word: Yoshi but also makes strange zipping and zapping sounds. Yoshi is able to eat anything for use as a special power. Yoshi likes cookies and fruit.
And another thing: Originally Yoshi’s could morph into helicopter’s and trains.
Toad:
First Game Appearance: Super Mario Bros.
Toads only real function in Mario games is to smile and tell Mario extremely obvious things.
And another thing: Just like Yoshi, Toad is a member of a race of creatures that look exactly the same.
AND NOW THE BAD GUYS:
Wario:
First Game Appearance: Wario Land
Wario is thought to be the long lost brother of Mario and Luigi, a wild card from the past. Some say he is Mario’s evil mirror image.
A childhood argument made them part ways.
Bowser:
First Game Appearance: Super Mario Bros.
Bowser was raised to become the ultimate villain. He constantly tries to kidnap Princess Peach but time and time again gets his butt kicked by Mario (or in the latest case - tail throwing).
And another thing: Bowser’s full name is King Bowser Koopa -of the Mushroom Kingdom.
THE GAMES:
Here’s a list of ALL games that Mario has made an appearance in.
Donkey Kong 1981:
Arcade, Atari 2600, Colecovision, Intellivision, Coleco ADAM, NES, Atari 7800, GameBoy
Using King Kong as an inspiration, Shigsy created a game where Mario has to save his girlfriend Peach (called Pauline in this game) from a giant ape. Mario had to climb ladders and jump over barrels and fireballs heading for him.
The game became an instant hit at arcades, turning all characters into video game icons.
Mario Bros. 1983:
Arcade, Atari 2600, Atari 5200, Atari 7800, NES
Luigi joins Mario this time in an adventure that involves clearing out the sewers infested with turtles, crabs and giant flies. It was the two plumbers’ job to jump up and punch the platforms when the creatures were directly above them.
Super Mario Bros. 1985:
Arcade, NES, GameBoy Colour (DX version)
This was quite possibly the first ever run and jump side-scrolling game. All the now familiar parts of Mario games were added. Bowser kidnapped the princess and Mario could collect powerups, stars and had to kill all sorts of creatures. This game would become the standard for nearly every following Mario game.
Golf 1985:
NES
One of the NES’ first games, people argued whether the main character was Mario or not. It was difficult to decide.
Wrecking Crew 1985:
NES
This is the least well-known Mario game. Mario can’t jump, making it more of a puzzle game than a action game, but it still carried the same story with Peach being captured. Mario’s job was to demolish walls and avoid enemies.
Super Mario Bros. 2 (Japan) 1986:
Famicom
This game was nearly the same as the original, but with better graphics.
It was not released outside Japan as testers thought it was too difficult for the west.
Super Mario Bros. 2 (Western) 1988:
NES
This game was originally called Doki Doki Panic and starred none of the Nintendo characters. Nintendo of America made minor changes though, by changing the characters of course to Mario and co.
Super Mario Land:
GameBoy
One of the first GameBoy titles, with very similar gameplay to Super Mario Bros. This time though, Mario is saving Daisy instead of Peach.
The game is also the only Mario adventure where Mario can fly a plane.
This also was the least attractive of any Mario game (due to the GameBoy’s graphical limitations).
Golf 1989:
GameBoy
A basic golf game starring Mario. The graphics were rubbish.
Super Mario Bros. 3. 1990:
NES
The gameplay was again similar to the original SMB but now, Mario could pick up objects and he was able to fly, swim or turn into a stone for some reason. This was by far, the biggest Mario adventure yet and even included a special version of the original Super Mario Bros.
Super Mario World 1991:
SNES
This game was not considered to be as good as SMB3, but was Mario’s first 16-bit adventure. Improved graphics and the introduction of Yoshi, still made the game important. A save feature was now added, meaning that the whole game didn’t need to be finished all in one go.
NES Open Tournament Golf 1991:
NES
The best of all the two previous Mario golf games, this game had better graphics and more options included. Donkey Kong even shows up.
Hotel Mario 1992:
Philips CD-I
This game involved finding the princess (of course who was kidnapped by Bowser) and finding her hidden in rooms of one of seven hotels.
This is probably the least known about game as it was released onto the expensive Philips CD-I (the only Mario game to be released on a CD).
The game never took off.
Super Mario Land2 : Six Golden Coins 1992:
GameBoy
A Mario game with a difference. Wario takes over from Bowser this time, and captures Mario’s castle. Very similar gameplay to SMB3, but Mario got the chance to go into outer space!
Super Mario Bros. Mushroom World Pinball 1992:
Arcade
A pinball game with the goal to save the princess from Bowser. Yawn.
Super Mario All-Stars 1993:
SNES
This game had improved graphics and sounds and included all 3 Super Mario Bros. Games. The Japanese version of SMB2 (or called the Lost Levels) was also added.
By releasing the previous games, a younger audience was introduced as they might not have played the previous games.
Mario Clash 1995:
Virtual Boy
This was the first attempt of a 3D Mario adventure. The hardware limitations of the Virtual Boy (and the fact it gave you annoying headaches) meant that the game was hardly a success.
Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars 1996:
SNES
This was the final SNES Mario Game and was definitely a brilliant RPG.
The saga is the same as usual but other enemies that even threatened Bowser made the game different. The game boasted the best graphics of any Mario game made before.
Super Mario 64 1996:
Nintendo 64
This was it. Another era of video-gaming was born. A full 3D adventure where Mario could explore anywhere he liked and could do what he wanted made this game the best game ever created. Mario could be moved around using the analogue stick, and even though the plot was rubbish, the game was a masterpiece and scored 10/10 in most games mags.
Super Mario Advance (August 2001)
GameBoy Advance
Mario's 32-bit outing was the two Mario classics:
Super Mario Bros. 2 and the arcade original. Only with a few extras, this game could have been so much better.
Paper Mario (October 2001):
Nintendo 64
Not yet released in Europe, Paper Mario will be one of the last games made for the dying N64. Basically an RPG, but with amazing 3D environments and a 2D Mario, making the game feel different. The idea is that you feel as if you were in a moving painting. Many feel though, that this game will be played by a mainly younger audience.
So that’s it!
Mario has also starred in loads of ‘team’ games where he teams up with other characters. Here’s the list:
Super Mario Kart (1992, SNES)
Yoshi/Mario & Yoshi (1992, GameBoy, NES)
Yoshi’s Cookie (1993, SNES)
Yoshi’s Safari (1993, SNES)
Mario’s Tennis (1995, Virtual Boy)
Mario Kart 64 (1996, Nintendo 64)
Game & Watch Gallery 1, 2 & 3 (1997, 1998, 1999, GameBoy and Color)
Mario Party (1999, Nintendo 64)
Super Smash Bros. (1999, Nintendo 64)
Mario Golf (1999, Nintendo 64)
Super Mario Bros. DX (1999, GameBoy and Color)
Mario Party2 (2000, Nintendo 64)
Mario Tennis (2000, Nintendo 64)
Mario Party3 (2001/2002, Nintendo 64)
Dr Mario (don’t Buy! 2001, Nintendo 64)
Mario is everywhere. You can buy Mario books, Computer Typing Teachers and even underwear!
Just look at how far Mario has come!
So now we have to wait for Mario Sunshine on the GameCube! But instead of Mario launching the machine - its his brother! Is it his brother’s turn to steal the limelight?
Do you think that Mario is not going to appeal as much to future 'next-gen' gamers who want more realistic games?
We'll have to wait and see!
In an era where reality gaming is becoming more and more important, what makes Mario stay so famous?
You won’t find anyone these days who won’t instantly recognise Mario - what makes him stand out from the likes of Sonic and other well known characters?
Well most people know that Mario was the creation of Shigeru Miyamoto who also has the credit for creating Link.
Due to the hardware limitations of early consoles, Mario’s design was merely convenient as it was easier to draw a hat and moustache than hair and a mouth.
Shigeru Miyamoto (or Shigsy as he will now be called) originally called his chubby Italian plumber from the Bronx ‘Jumpman’ but it was changed to Mario when the President of Nintendo of America discovered that he looked like the landlord of their office space. So the name changed and has stuck ever since!
Since Mario was called to the Mushroom Kingdom with his twin brother Luigi, loads of other characters have been introduced, good and evil.
Here’s a list of his fellow friends:
Luigi:
First Game Appearance : Mario Bros.
Mario’s Twin Brother. He unfortunately has never been truly appreciated as much as his brother. He shares the same graphical looks as his brother as again it was easier to draw him with a hat and moustache.
And another thing: At first, Luigi was just a clone of his brother just with different clothes. It was later on that he became taller and thinner than his fat brother.
Princess Peach:
First Game Appearance: Super Mario Bros.
Peach is the typical "helpless victim - save her!" type of person, as she has been kidnapped over twelve times first by evil now turned good Donkey Kong and just pure evil Bowser. She was actually first called Pauline in Donkey Kong, then was known as Daisy. She confused gamers though in Super Mario 64 when she signed a letter as ‘Peach’. The name has stuck.
And another thing: As well as her past-times of baking cakes and shouting out ‘help!’, Peach changed her long dress to a short miniskirt after Mario 64 as it was easier (obviously) to take part in her sporting career as a tennis and golf professional.
Yoshi:
First Game Appearance: Super Mario World.
Yoshi comes from Yoshi’s Island and is one of a unique dinosaurlike species. Yoshi can only say one word: Yoshi but also makes strange zipping and zapping sounds. Yoshi is able to eat anything for use as a special power. Yoshi likes cookies and fruit.
And another thing: Originally Yoshi’s could morph into helicopter’s and trains.
Toad:
First Game Appearance: Super Mario Bros.
Toads only real function in Mario games is to smile and tell Mario extremely obvious things.
And another thing: Just like Yoshi, Toad is a member of a race of creatures that look exactly the same.
AND NOW THE BAD GUYS:
Wario:
First Game Appearance: Wario Land
Wario is thought to be the long lost brother of Mario and Luigi, a wild card from the past. Some say he is Mario’s evil mirror image.
A childhood argument made them part ways.
Bowser:
First Game Appearance: Super Mario Bros.
Bowser was raised to become the ultimate villain. He constantly tries to kidnap Princess Peach but time and time again gets his butt kicked by Mario (or in the latest case - tail throwing).
And another thing: Bowser’s full name is King Bowser Koopa -of the Mushroom Kingdom.
THE GAMES:
Here’s a list of ALL games that Mario has made an appearance in.
Donkey Kong 1981:
Arcade, Atari 2600, Colecovision, Intellivision, Coleco ADAM, NES, Atari 7800, GameBoy
Using King Kong as an inspiration, Shigsy created a game where Mario has to save his girlfriend Peach (called Pauline in this game) from a giant ape. Mario had to climb ladders and jump over barrels and fireballs heading for him.
The game became an instant hit at arcades, turning all characters into video game icons.
Mario Bros. 1983:
Arcade, Atari 2600, Atari 5200, Atari 7800, NES
Luigi joins Mario this time in an adventure that involves clearing out the sewers infested with turtles, crabs and giant flies. It was the two plumbers’ job to jump up and punch the platforms when the creatures were directly above them.
Super Mario Bros. 1985:
Arcade, NES, GameBoy Colour (DX version)
This was quite possibly the first ever run and jump side-scrolling game. All the now familiar parts of Mario games were added. Bowser kidnapped the princess and Mario could collect powerups, stars and had to kill all sorts of creatures. This game would become the standard for nearly every following Mario game.
Golf 1985:
NES
One of the NES’ first games, people argued whether the main character was Mario or not. It was difficult to decide.
Wrecking Crew 1985:
NES
This is the least well-known Mario game. Mario can’t jump, making it more of a puzzle game than a action game, but it still carried the same story with Peach being captured. Mario’s job was to demolish walls and avoid enemies.
Super Mario Bros. 2 (Japan) 1986:
Famicom
This game was nearly the same as the original, but with better graphics.
It was not released outside Japan as testers thought it was too difficult for the west.
Super Mario Bros. 2 (Western) 1988:
NES
This game was originally called Doki Doki Panic and starred none of the Nintendo characters. Nintendo of America made minor changes though, by changing the characters of course to Mario and co.
Super Mario Land:
GameBoy
One of the first GameBoy titles, with very similar gameplay to Super Mario Bros. This time though, Mario is saving Daisy instead of Peach.
The game is also the only Mario adventure where Mario can fly a plane.
This also was the least attractive of any Mario game (due to the GameBoy’s graphical limitations).
Golf 1989:
GameBoy
A basic golf game starring Mario. The graphics were rubbish.
Super Mario Bros. 3. 1990:
NES
The gameplay was again similar to the original SMB but now, Mario could pick up objects and he was able to fly, swim or turn into a stone for some reason. This was by far, the biggest Mario adventure yet and even included a special version of the original Super Mario Bros.
Super Mario World 1991:
SNES
This game was not considered to be as good as SMB3, but was Mario’s first 16-bit adventure. Improved graphics and the introduction of Yoshi, still made the game important. A save feature was now added, meaning that the whole game didn’t need to be finished all in one go.
NES Open Tournament Golf 1991:
NES
The best of all the two previous Mario golf games, this game had better graphics and more options included. Donkey Kong even shows up.
Hotel Mario 1992:
Philips CD-I
This game involved finding the princess (of course who was kidnapped by Bowser) and finding her hidden in rooms of one of seven hotels.
This is probably the least known about game as it was released onto the expensive Philips CD-I (the only Mario game to be released on a CD).
The game never took off.
Super Mario Land2 : Six Golden Coins 1992:
GameBoy
A Mario game with a difference. Wario takes over from Bowser this time, and captures Mario’s castle. Very similar gameplay to SMB3, but Mario got the chance to go into outer space!
Super Mario Bros. Mushroom World Pinball 1992:
Arcade
A pinball game with the goal to save the princess from Bowser. Yawn.
Super Mario All-Stars 1993:
SNES
This game had improved graphics and sounds and included all 3 Super Mario Bros. Games. The Japanese version of SMB2 (or called the Lost Levels) was also added.
By releasing the previous games, a younger audience was introduced as they might not have played the previous games.
Mario Clash 1995:
Virtual Boy
This was the first attempt of a 3D Mario adventure. The hardware limitations of the Virtual Boy (and the fact it gave you annoying headaches) meant that the game was hardly a success.
Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars 1996:
SNES
This was the final SNES Mario Game and was definitely a brilliant RPG.
The saga is the same as usual but other enemies that even threatened Bowser made the game different. The game boasted the best graphics of any Mario game made before.
Super Mario 64 1996:
Nintendo 64
This was it. Another era of video-gaming was born. A full 3D adventure where Mario could explore anywhere he liked and could do what he wanted made this game the best game ever created. Mario could be moved around using the analogue stick, and even though the plot was rubbish, the game was a masterpiece and scored 10/10 in most games mags.
Super Mario Advance (August 2001)
GameBoy Advance
Mario's 32-bit outing was the two Mario classics:
Super Mario Bros. 2 and the arcade original. Only with a few extras, this game could have been so much better.
Paper Mario (October 2001):
Nintendo 64
Not yet released in Europe, Paper Mario will be one of the last games made for the dying N64. Basically an RPG, but with amazing 3D environments and a 2D Mario, making the game feel different. The idea is that you feel as if you were in a moving painting. Many feel though, that this game will be played by a mainly younger audience.
So that’s it!
Mario has also starred in loads of ‘team’ games where he teams up with other characters. Here’s the list:
Super Mario Kart (1992, SNES)
Yoshi/Mario & Yoshi (1992, GameBoy, NES)
Yoshi’s Cookie (1993, SNES)
Yoshi’s Safari (1993, SNES)
Mario’s Tennis (1995, Virtual Boy)
Mario Kart 64 (1996, Nintendo 64)
Game & Watch Gallery 1, 2 & 3 (1997, 1998, 1999, GameBoy and Color)
Mario Party (1999, Nintendo 64)
Super Smash Bros. (1999, Nintendo 64)
Mario Golf (1999, Nintendo 64)
Super Mario Bros. DX (1999, GameBoy and Color)
Mario Party2 (2000, Nintendo 64)
Mario Tennis (2000, Nintendo 64)
Mario Party3 (2001/2002, Nintendo 64)
Dr Mario (don’t Buy! 2001, Nintendo 64)
Mario is everywhere. You can buy Mario books, Computer Typing Teachers and even underwear!
Just look at how far Mario has come!
So now we have to wait for Mario Sunshine on the GameCube! But instead of Mario launching the machine - its his brother! Is it his brother’s turn to steal the limelight?
Do you think that Mario is not going to appeal as much to future 'next-gen' gamers who want more realistic games?
We'll have to wait and see!
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