Super Mario Run Announced for iPhone & iPad: Nintendo Brings Iconic Platformer to iOS

Nintendo has officially revealed Super Mario Run, the legendary franchise's highly anticipated debut on iPhone and iPad.

The announcement came directly from Shigeru Miyamoto himself during the Apple event on September 7, 2016, heralding a new era for Mario as the iconic platformer makes its way to iOS devices this December. Super Mario Run joins the ranks of automatic runner games made popular with titles like Rayman and Bit Trip Runner.

In this action-packed side-scroller, Mario is in constant motion, dashing to the right while players control his jumps by tapping the device screen.

The intuitive touch controls ensure that both veteran gamers and newcomers can guide Mario past obstacles, collect coins, and snag power-ups along each course. According to the game's listing on the App Store, Super Mario Run will feature three distinct modes.

The first offers a traditional Mario experience with a series of specially designed courses that challenge players' reflexes and timing.

The second mode pits players in asynchronous competition, allowing them to race against the 'ghost' replays of others' completed courses, adding a competitive edge and replayability to the classic Mario formula.

In the third mode, fans can unleash their creativity by building their own Mushroom Kingdom, utilizing coins collected throughout gameplay to customize and expand their domain. Shigeru Miyamoto shared during the announcement that Nintendo's goal with Super Mario Run is to "deliver traditional Mario action that can be played with just one hand." This marks a significant pursuit for Nintendo, broadening the franchise's accessibility without sacrificing the quality and charm that fans expect from Super Mario titles. At launch, Super Mario Run will be available exclusively on iPhone and iPad, making it a cornerstone addition to Apple's App Store offerings.

While details regarding an Android launch remain forthcoming, Nintendo has confirmed its intention to expand Super Mario Run to additional platforms after the initial rollout. Super Mario Run's release also represents a pivotal moment for Nintendo as it embraces mobile development, introducing Mario to a broader global audience beyond traditional Nintendo hardware like the Nintendo Switch.

The game's arrival on iOS devices underscores Nintendo's strategy to bring beloved franchises to new platforms, connecting with both long-time fans and newcomers alike. With its December 2016 release date rapidly approaching, anticipation is building for Super Mario Run as players look forward to another groundbreaking entry in Nintendo's storied platformer series — now designed for the mobile age.

Keep an eye on the App Store for official launch details and prepare to join Mario on a brand-new adventure designed for the modern gamer.

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