Nintendo Celebrates Mario’s 40th Anniversary with ‘It’s Me, Mario!’ Shorts and Hello, Mario! App Launch

Nintendo is commemorating the 40th anniversary of its iconic mascot, Mario, with a creative slate of family-oriented releases.

As part of this milestone, Nintendo debuted a trio of stop-motion animated shorts titled “It’s Me, Mario!” Each of these new Mario-focused films runs under a minute, delivering playful vignettes featuring the plumber that has captivated generations of gamers.

The shorts are part of the newly established My Mario brand, underlining Nintendo’s commitment to engaging audiences of all ages through fresh digital content. Available now, these films serve as a centerpiece for Mario’s anniversary celebration, introducing longtime fans and newcomers alike to the whimsical charm that has defined the franchise since its debut.

In a statement accompanying the launch, Nintendo emphasized the shorts’ appeal for both seasoned players and young families, reinforcing Mario’s enduring legacy as a global cultural icon. Alongside the animated shorts, Nintendo has launched the Hello, Mario! app, designed especially for children and families.

The app, available internationally on select Nintendo eShop regions and compatible smart devices, offers interactive play experiences featuring an animated Mario face.

By using the touch screen, control pad, or face buttons, players can make Mario respond, laugh, and sing, as well as interact with iconic series items such as the Super Mushroom, Warp Pipe, Star, and Music Block.

While Hello, Mario! is accessible in many markets, it is notable that, as of this writing, the app has not appeared on the North American eShop, and Nintendo has not yet confirmed its release for that territory. Nintendo’s efforts to expand Mario’s reach to younger audiences don’t stop there.

The Play Nintendo YouTube channel provides exclusive content for kids and families, including interactive videos, activities, and puzzles.

Complementing the channel, the Play Nintendo website offers virtual mini-games and downloadable activities, further cementing Nintendo’s focus on accessible, family-friendly entertainment. These releases represent the initial phase of Nintendo’s rollout for Mario’s 40th anniversary.

The new My Mario brand also encompasses upcoming products such as themed amiibo, shows, and games targeted at children, marking a concerted push towards fostering the next generation of Mario fans.

As additional content and product announcements are expected throughout the celebratory year, Nintendo continues to honor Mario’s remarkable history and influence in the gaming world. Fans can explore the new shorts via official Nintendo channels and experience the Hello, Mario! app through the eShop or mobile platforms where available.

Stay tuned for ongoing updates as Nintendo celebrates four decades of Super Mario’s adventures on Nintendo Switch and beyond.

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