The celebration of Super Mario Bros turning 25 this month has prompted Nintendo to create a special Red Wii bundle. Mario, the iconic character, was created by Japanese video game designer Shigeru Miyamoto and has appeared in over 200 video games since his inception. Though originally only appearing in platform games, starting with Donkey Kong, Mario currently appears in varied video game genres such as racing, puzzle, role-playing, fighting, and sports.
The new Red Wii will arrive in Japan on November 11, and will retail for ¥20,000, which is approximately USD$240. This special edition console comes with a copy of Super Mario Bros. pre-installed on the system, allowing fans to dive right into the classic game that started it all.
The Evolution of Mario
Mario’s journey from a simple platform game character to a versatile icon in the gaming world is nothing short of remarkable. Initially introduced in the 1981 arcade game Donkey Kong, Mario was originally known as “Jumpman.” His character was later renamed Mario, and he became the protagonist of the Super Mario series. Over the years, Mario has ventured into various game genres, including:
- Racing: The Mario Kart series has become a staple in the racing genre, offering fun and competitive gameplay for players of all ages.
- Puzzle: Games like Dr. Mario showcase Mario’s versatility, challenging players with engaging puzzle mechanics.
- Role-Playing: Titles such as Paper Mario and Mario & Luigi series have introduced RPG elements, adding depth to Mario’s adventures.
- Fighting: Mario is a key character in the Super Smash Bros. series, a popular fighting game franchise.
- Sports: Mario has also dabbled in various sports games, including Mario Tennis, Mario Golf, and Mario Strikers.
What’s Included in the Red Wii Bundle?
The Red Wii bundle is not just about the console’s striking color. It also includes the new Wii Remote Plus peripheral, which combines the functionality of a standard Wii Remote with that of the MotionPlus add-on. This integration enhances the gaming experience by providing more precise motion control. These new controllers will also be available for purchase individually starting November 11th.
The inclusion of Super Mario Bros. pre-installed on the system is a nostalgic nod to the game’s origins and a treat for long-time fans. This bundle offers a unique opportunity for both new and veteran players to experience the magic of Mario on a special edition console.
Unfortunately, there are no details as to whether this bundle will be available outside of Japan at the moment. Fans around the world are eagerly awaiting news on whether they will have the chance to own this limited edition console.
Mario’s enduring popularity is a testament to the character’s universal appeal and the innovative gameplay experiences that Nintendo continues to deliver. As we celebrate 25 years of Super Mario Bros., it’s clear that Mario’s adventures are far from over, and fans can look forward to many more exciting games in the future.
Via Kotaku
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