Published on: February 29, 2024
In a significant milestone for video game history enthusiasts, the complete set of Bandai's 1986 Super Mario Bros.
and Legend of Zelda Keshi-Gomu figures has been digitally archived, thanks to the dedication of preservationist Mr.
Talida.
These highly collectible keshi, or small rubber figures, were originally manufactured by Bandai and distributed via Japanese gachapon (capsule toy) machines, becoming sought-after memorabilia for fans of classic Nintendo franchises.
Since October 2022, Mr.
Talida has spearheaded an ambitious digital preservation initiative aimed at archiving classic video game toys and merchandise.
Utilizing advanced 3D scanning technology, Talida has methodically documented and shared progress on social media, gradually building a comprehensive, high-fidelity digital library of their impressive Keshi-Gomu collection.
The focus on preservation ensures that these important artifacts from gaming history are safeguarded for future generations.
In August 2023, Mr.
Talida reported completing the full set of Legend of Zelda Bandai keshi figures and indicated that work was nearly finished on capturing the analogous 1986 set dedicated to Super Mario Bros.
This week, the effort culminated as the entire Super Mario Bros.
Keshi-Gomu figure collection was successfully scanned and uploaded to Archive.org.
The digital release comprises a set of 21 downloadable STL files, representing a diverse roster of Mario characters such as Blooper, Bowser, Princess Peach, Mario, and Toad.
To complement the figures, the upload also includes a 1200dpi scan of the original Bandai gachapon cardboard display, adding further authenticity and archival value to the collection.
These assets are now freely accessible to fans, collectors, historians, and developers via Archive.org, who can download, 3D print, and even paint their own replicas of these iconic figures.
The significance of this project extends beyond nostalgia.
Digitally preserving iconic Nintendo merchandise and toys, especially those originally distributed by Bandai, strengthens the cultural legacy of franchises like The Legend of Zelda and Super Mario Bros.
and supports both academic research and fan-driven initiatives.
By making these scans publicly available, Mr.
Talida not only enriches our collective understanding of gaming history but also empowers a new generation to experience and celebrate Nintendo’s early legacy through tangible, recreated memorabilia.
For those interested, the full set of Bandai’s 1986 Super Mario Bros.
and Legend of Zelda Keshi-Gomu figure scans can be accessed and downloaded directly on Archive.org, marking a new era in video game preservation and fan engagement.
Zelda Mario Legend of Zelda Super Mario Super Mario Bros Bandai Mario Bros Nintendo Super Mario Bros. Archive.org Mr. Talida