What is Mario’s OG name?

What is Mario’s OG Name?

Mario, the iconic video game character created by Shigeru Miyamoto, has undergone many transformations since his debut in the 1980s. From his humble beginnings as Jumpman to his current status as a beloved global icon, Mario’s name has changed several times. In this article, we’ll explore Mario’s original name and how it evolved over time.

Jumpman: The First Name

Mario’s first appearance was in the 1981 arcade game Donkey Kong, where he was known as Jumpman. This name was given to him because of his ability to jump and climb ladders to rescue a damsel in distress named Pauline. Jumpman was a carpenter by trade, and his primary goal was to rescue Pauline from the clutches of Donkey Kong.

Ossan: The Japanese Name

In Japan, Mario was initially known as Ossan, which roughly translates to "middle-aged man" or "middle-aged guy." This name was used in the 1982 arcade game Donkey Kong Jr., where Mario appeared as the main antagonist. Ossan was a nod to Mario’s older, more mature persona, which would later become a defining characteristic of the character.

Mr. Video: Another Early Name

In 1983, Mario made his debut in the arcade game Mario Bros., where he was known as Mr. Video. This name was used in conjunction with his brother, Luigi, who was also a main character in the game. Mr. Video was a reference to Mario’s video game persona, which would become a central aspect of his character.

The Evolution of Mario’s Name

Over time, Mario’s name underwent several changes, reflecting his growth and development as a character. In 1985, Nintendo released the game Super Mario Bros., which cemented Mario’s status as a global icon. The game’s success led to a series of sequels and spin-offs, which further solidified Mario’s position as a beloved character.

Mario’s Official Name

In 2015, Shigeru Miyamoto, the creator of Mario, revealed that Mario’s official name was Mario Mario. This announcement was made during a 30th-anniversary celebration for the Super Mario Bros. series. Mario Mario was a nod to the character’s Italian heritage, which had been a part of his backstory since the early days of the series.

Luigi’s Name

Luigi, Mario’s brother, also has an official name. According to Miyamoto, Luigi’s full name is Luigi Mario, making him the younger brother of Mario Mario.

Table: Mario’s Names Over Time

Conclusion

Mario’s OG name is a topic of much debate among fans and historians. From Jumpman to Mario Mario, the character’s name has undergone many changes over the years. While some may argue that Ossan or Mr. Video were his original names, it’s clear that Mario’s evolution as a character was marked by a series of name changes. Today, Mario is widely recognized as one of the most iconic characters in gaming history, and his name is synonymous with fun, adventure, and excitement.