History

Mario, one of the most iconic and beloved fictional characters in video game history, was first introduced 39 years ago in 1981. Created by legendary Japanese game designer Shigeru Miyamoto, Mario serves as Nintendo's official mascot and has appeared in over 200 games, solidifying his place as a cultural phenomenon.

Initially named "Jumpman" in the classic Donkey Kong game, Mario received his now-famous name in 1982. His true breakout moment came in 1985 with the release of Super Mario Bros., developed for the Family Computer (Famicom) in Japan. This revolutionary platformer, which built upon the arcade success of Mario Bros. (1983), was later introduced to North America on the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), capturing the hearts of millions.

In Super Mario Bros., players guide Mario on an epic quest to rescue Princess Toadstool (later renamed Princess Peach) from the clutches of King Koopa (now known as Bowser). The game takes players across eight distinct worlds in the Mushroom Kingdom, each culminating in a showdown with one of Bowser's minions before the final confrontation.

The success of Super Mario Bros. paved the way for a franchise that continues to shape gaming culture. With titles like Super Mario Bros. 2 and Super Mario Bros. 3, the series not only maintained its popularity but also introduced gameplay mechanics and level designs that have influenced countless platformers. The original Super Mario Bros. is credited with popularizing side-scrolling platform games and remains a cornerstone of gaming history.

Remarkably, the game has sold over 40 million copies worldwide, including 29 million in North America alone, making it the best-selling title in the Mario series and one of the top-selling games of all time. In fact, a 1990 survey revealed that Mario was more recognizable to American children than Mickey Mouse—an extraordinary testament to his cultural impact.

Mario's influence has also been immortalized in the Guinness World Records, earning titles such as the "Best Selling Video Game Series of All Time," the "Most Prolific Video Game Character," and even recognition for the first movie adaptation based on a video game.

Even decades later, Super Mario Bros. continues to captivate audiences. Gamers are still uncovering its secrets, and its timeless design ensures it remains a favorite across generations. With numerous ports and re-releases, Mario's adventures endure, enchanting both seasoned fans and newcomers alike.