Published on: September 12, 2025
Super Mario Bros.
40th Anniversary Announced: Nintendo Honors Decades of Gaming Legacy
As one of the most enduring franchises in video game history, Super Mario Bros.
holds a special place in the hearts of gamers worldwide.
Since its landmark release on September 13, 1985, for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), the game has set new standards for platforming titles and shaped the identity of Nintendo as a leader in the industry.
Now, in 2025, Nintendo is officially marking the 40th anniversary of Super Mario Bros.
with a series of celebratory events and exhibitions, underscoring the monumental impact of the franchise.
In an announcement delivered by Mario's legendary creator Shigeru Miyamoto, Nintendo confirmed its commitment to honoring four decades of Mario’s adventures.
To commemorate this historic milestone, Nintendo is launching a variety of special activities centered around the Nintendo Museum in Kyoto, Japan—a new cultural venue dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of the company's greatest achievements.
Among the headline attractions is the introduction of a limited-edition Super Mario Bros.
40th Anniversary entry card, available exclusively to visitors of the Nintendo Museum.
This collector’s item is designed to serve as both a memento for fans and a celebration of Mario's enduring popularity.
In addition, the Museum will host a dedicated exhibition showcasing developmental documents and concept art from previous Super Mario games, offering enthusiasts an unprecedented look behind the scenes of the iconic franchise.
These archives and original designs highlight the evolution of Mario and his world, revealing how the creative vision of Shigeru Miyamoto and the teams at Nintendo brought one of gaming’s most recognizable characters to life.
Since its debut, Super Mario Bros.
has sold over 40 million copies worldwide and spawned numerous sequels, spin-offs, and adaptations across Nintendo consoles including the Super Nintendo, Nintendo 64, GameCube, Wii, Wii U, and, most recently, the Nintendo Switch.
The franchise remains a cornerstone of Nintendo's portfolio, influencing generations of developers and inspiring countless homages throughout the industry.
Shigeru Miyamoto reflected on the series’ legacy, noting that the ongoing celebrations reflect "the excitement and memories that Super Mario Bros.
has brought to players around the globe." By opening the archives and sharing rare insights into the design process, Nintendo aims to connect with both longtime fans and a new wave of gamers discovering Mario for the first time on platforms such as the Nintendo Switch and through the Nintendo eShop.
With the Super Mario Bros.
40th Anniversary events, Nintendo reaffirms its status as an innovative leader in the gaming world, consistently evolving its iconic brands while honoring the heritage that shaped modern interactive entertainment.
Whether revisiting classic levels or exploring the rich history of digital art and game design, fans can look forward to immersive experiences throughout the anniversary year.
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