What Was Mario Originally Supposed to Be?
Mario, the beloved plumber and star of Nintendo’s iconic game series, has undergone quite a transformation since his inception in 1981. Before becoming the iconic figure we know today, Mario was conceived as a completely different character. In this article, we’ll explore Mario’s origins and examine what he was originally supposed to be.
A Carpenter by Trade
Initially, Mario was designed by Shigeru Miyamoto, a renowned video game designer, as a carpenter in the 1981 arcade game Donkey Kong. Mario’s primary goal was to rescue a damsel in distress named Pauline, who had been kidnapped by the titular Donkey Kong. The character’s appearance was also different, featuring a mustache and a red hat.
Jumpman
The character’s jumping ability and agility were evident even in his early incarnation. This led to him being dubbed Jumpman, a name that would eventually be replaced by his iconic title, Mario. The game’s success cemented Mario’s place in gaming history, and he would go on to become a cultural icon.
The Mario Brothers’ Origins
As Mario’s popularity grew, Nintendo sought to create a more nuanced and relatable character. In 1983, the Mario brothers, Mario and Luigi, were introduced in the game Super Mario Bros. The characters’ Italian heritage and sibling rivalry added a new layer of depth to their personalities.
Changes in the Mario Brothers
In 1985, the Mario brothers underwent another significant transformation. Super Mario Bros. for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) introduced a new character design, a red hat, blue overalls, and a lovable, goofy personality. This iconic look has endured to this day.
Other Notable Changes
- Name Change: Mario was originally known as Jumpman, but later became Mario, named after Mario Segale, the landlord of Nintendo’s offices in Tukwila, Washington.
- Job Change: From a carpenter to a plumber, Mario’s occupation would become a hallmark of the character.
- Location Change: Mario’s residence was initially stated to be New York City, but was later changed to the Mushroom Kingdom.
- Character Development: Mario’s personality evolved to become more lighthearted and jovial.
Mario’s Iconic Status
Today, Mario is an integral part of gaming culture, with numerous games, spin-offs, and adaptations. He has become an enduring symbol of fun, adventure, and family-friendly entertainment. His origins may have changed over time, but the essence of Mario’s charm has remained constant.
In Conclusion
Mario, the iconic plumber, was originally a carpenter and Jumpman in the early days of Donkey Kong. The character underwent numerous changes, including a new design, name, occupation, and location. Throughout his evolution, Mario has maintained his lovable, goofy personality, becoming a beloved figure in gaming and pop culture.