Launch of Mario Bros. in Japan

July 14th, 1983

July 14th, 1983

Launch of Mario Bros. in Japan
How Long Ago?

41 years, 8 months, 1 day ago

Location

Japan

Category

Entertainment

People
  • Shigeru Miyamoto
  • Gunpei Yokoi
Links & References
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Launch of Mario Bros. in Japan

Mario Bros. was released in Japan, marking the beginning of the iconic Super Mario franchise. Developed by Nintendo, this platform game featured Mario and his brother Luigi as they navigated various levels to defeat enemies and rescue Princess Peach. Its introduction laid the groundwork for what would become one of the most successful video game franchises in history, resonating with gamers of all ages.

Introduced cooperative gameplay with two players

Featured iconic characters Mario and Luigi

Set the stage for future platform games

Gained immense popularity in arcades and consoles

What Happened?

Mario Bros., developed by Nintendo and co-created by Shigeru Miyamoto and Gunpei Yokoi, marked a significant milestone in the history of video games upon its release in Japan. This game introduced players to the adventures of two Italian plumbers, Mario and Luigi, as they worked together to eliminate creatures from the Mushroom Kingdom. The gameplay involved running and jumping across a series of platforms while defeating enemies such as goombas and koopa troopas. Mario Bros. also introduced the concept of cooperative gameplay, where two players could control Mario and Luigi simultaneously, enriching the gaming experience.

Prior to Mario Bros., video gaming was primarily dominated by arcade games and simple home console experiences. Mario Bros. pushed the boundaries of what home gaming could offer. The technical aspects of the game demonstrated advanced graphics for its time, and the sound effects and music contributed to an immersive experience. Mario Bros. quickly gained popularity in arcades, contributing to the rise of Nintendo as a powerhouse in the gaming industry. Following the game's release in Japan, it made its way to North America and beyond, where it significantly influenced the evolution of platform games.

The success of Mario Bros. was unprecedented, leading to numerous sequels and spin-offs. This franchise not only established Mario as a gaming icon but also set the stage for Nintendo's extensive influence in the video game market. The elements introduced in Mario Bros.—including power-ups, levels, and character designs—became benchmarks for the platformer genre and inspired future game developers worldwide. As a result, Mario has transcended gaming to become a cultural phenomenon, with merchandise, television shows, and films further solidifying his place in popular culture.

Why Does it Matter?

The release of Mario Bros. is significant for its lasting influence on the gaming industry and popular culture. The game not only established the foundation for one of the best-selling franchises in history but also set standards in gameplay mechanics that continue to resonate in modern games. Mario Bros. changed the landscape of home entertainment, bringing families together around video games and igniting a global fascination with gaming that continues to this day.

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