Is 2013 the Year of Luigi?
In 2013, Nintendo announced that it would be dedicating the year to celebrating the iconic character Luigi, Mario’s trusty sidekick. Dubbed "The Year of Luigi," this initiative marked a significant milestone in the history of the Mario franchise. But what exactly made 2013 special for Luigi?
Why was 2013 the Year of Luigi?
According to Iwata, Nintendo’s president at the time, 2013 was chosen as the Year of Luigi because it marked the 30th anniversary of Luigi’s debut in the classic arcade game Mario Bros. (1983). Iwata explained that this milestone was a significant enough occasion to warrant a year-long celebration of Luigi’s contributions to the Mario franchise.
Luigi’s Origins
Born to Mario and Princess Peach’s aunt, Luigeena, in Brooklyn, Italy, Luigi was introduced as Mario’s brother in the original Super Mario Bros. game (1985). Initially portrayed as a timid and anxious character, Luigi has evolved over the years to become a fan favorite, with his own games, merchandise, and even a Nintendo-themed amusement park attraction, Luigi’s Mansion.
Games and Releases
Throughout 2013, Nintendo released several Luigi-themed games and content, including:
• New Super Luigi U: A DLC expansion pack for New Super Mario Bros. U, featuring exclusive Luigi levels and gameplay.
• Luigi’s Mansion: Dark Moon: A sequel to the original Luigi’s Mansion, released for the Nintendo 3DS.
• Mario & Luigi: Dream Team: A role-playing game in the Mario & Luigi series, which featured Luigi as the main playable character.
• Luigi’s Castle: A Luigi-themed attraction at the Nintendo-themed area, Super Nintendo World, in Universal Studios Japan.
Luigi’s Character Development
Over the years, Luigi has undergone significant character development, becoming a more confident and proactive character. His personality traits, such as his anxiety and timidness, have been refined to make him a more relatable and endearing character.
Trivia and Fun Facts
Here are some interesting tidbits about Luigi:
• Luigi’s Hat: Luigi’s iconic red hat is actually a reversed version of Mario’s red cap.
• Height Difference: Luigi is about 1-2 cm (0.4-0.8 in) taller than Mario.
• Birthdate: Luigi was born on October 13, 1980 (in the Mario universe).
Conclusion
2013 was indeed a special year for Luigi, marking his 30th anniversary in the Mario franchise. Nintendo’s dedication to celebrating Luigi’s character and contributions showcases the company’s commitment to honoring its beloved characters and legacy. As the years go by, Luigi will continue to be an integral part of the Mario universe, with his own unique personality and charm.