Why Mario Remains Beloved: Nintendo’s Iconic Mascot Through the Eyes of Young Fans

Since his debut in 1981, Mario has become one of the most recognizable and enduring characters in video game history.

Developed by Nintendo, the character has featured in dozens of critically acclaimed titles — from the original Super Mario Bros.

to the groundbreaking Super Mario Odyssey on the Nintendo Switch.

Mario’s influence stretches far beyond gaming, making him a cultural icon resonating across generations. The charm of Mario is often best observed through the experiences of younger gamers.

Colin Gaul, a nine-year-old fan from Portland, Oregon, described his admiration for the character, explaining, “I really like him.

He has a cool mustache.

I think he’s awesome because he’s brave and has gone on many adventures.

Plus, his favorite color is red, which is also my favorite.” For players like Colin, Mario represents more than a gaming icon — he embodies bravery, positivity, and the spirit of adventure.

Such sentiments illustrate how Mario’s universal appeal continues to bring new fans into Nintendo’s ever-growing community. Since the release of the Nintendo Switch in March 2017, the Mario franchise has achieved unprecedented success.

Super Mario Odyssey, launched later that same year, quickly sold over two million copies within three days and has surpassed 24 million units sold as of 2024, according to Nintendo’s official sales data.

The Nintendo Switch eShop and regular Nintendo Direct presentations have ensured Mario remains at the forefront of gaming conversations, with titles like Super Mario Maker 2 and New Super Mario Bros.

U Deluxe further cementing the franchise's relevance. Beyond its sales milestones, the Mario franchise stands as a testament to Nintendo’s dedication to quality and innovation in game development.

The creative leadership of figures like Shigeru Miyamoto and continued support from Nintendo EPD have been critical in Mario’s enduring success.

These achievements have earned countless accolades for both Nintendo as a developer and the Mario franchise itself, solidifying its place in gaming history. For nearly four decades, media outlets such as AP and Yahoo have frequently explored the reasons behind Mario’s mass appeal, often noting how the character’s approachability and adventurous spirit resonate with players of all ages.

Whether through interviews with young fans like Colin Gaul or comprehensive features on Nintendo’s game development philosophy, the story of Mario is continually being rewritten and rediscovered by new generations. In conclusion, Mario’s legacy is as strong as ever, thanks to Nintendo’s commitment to innovative game development and the character’s timeless appeal.

As the industry looks forward to the next Nintendo Direct or the launch of a new Mario title, it is clear that Mario will continue to inspire both veterans and newcomers on the Nintendo Switch and future platforms.

Nintendo Switch Nintendo Mario Switch Colin Gaul Super Mario AP Yahoo