Nintendo Became Nintendo 40 Years Ago Today With One Game That Changed the World

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In simpler terms, Nintendo is well-known as one of the giants in the video game industry, creating numerous popular franchises that have captivated countless fans throughout their lives, from childhood to adulthood. However, like all successful companies, they started small. Founded way back in the early 1800s, Nintendo initially produced hand-painted playing cards. Eventually, they evolved into a toys and games company, and more than a century later, they introduced a game that revolutionized home gaming – Super Mario Bros.

Super Mario Bros. Sent Out Shockwaves in the Game Industry

Super Mario Bros debuted in Japan back in September 1985, which was two years following the launch of the Nintendo Entertainment System console that it was specifically designed for. Upon hitting the market, it quickly skyrocketed to become a top-seller, shipping an impressive 1.2 million copies just in its first month. Within four months, this figure more than doubled in Japan and sales exceeded one million units in the US after its 1986 release in that region. Although it might appear quite basic today, the success of Super Mario Bros helped transform the entire gaming world following its initial release.

One of its notable impacts on gaming history is introducing and popularizing the side-scrolling genre. While similar games were already around, the technology of home computers struggled to handle the swift movements necessary for fast-paced gaming. By enhancing an engine similar to that used in Excitebike, Shigeru Miyamoto and Takashi Tezuka crafted Super Mario Bros. to be vibrant, challenging strategically, and seamless. This engine allowed for more precise and engaging movements than earlier “athletic games,” eventually known as “platformers.” The result was innovative and dynamic gameplay that no competitor in the industry could replicate.

With enhancements to their game engine, Nintendo managed to gain a significant advantage over their rivals. The NES transformed the North American video game market post the 1983 video game crash, primarily due to a shrewd marketing strategy that positioned it as a toy instead of a family computer, in contrast to its Japanese counterpart’s portrayal. Prior to Super Mario Bros., Nintendo had modest success in Japan. However, the escalating popularity of the Famicom – the original name of the NES in Japanese markets – due to Super Mario Bros. sales empowered Nintendo to focus more on home consoles rather than arcade machines, which was a common strategy among many competitors.

Due to Nintendo’s remarkable success, they found themselves overwhelmed with proposals from various game studios, as they had only ever permitted Nintendo-specific software on their consoles. The increasing popularity of the Famicom and NES, made possible by an exclusivity agreement, made these consoles highly sought after by consumers. This unique combination of factors paved the way for _Super Mario Bros_ to evolve from a beloved classic video game and cherished childhood memory into a cultural sensation.

Thanks to Mario, Nintendo Is a Household Name

In contrast to other games of its era that primarily emphasized high scores, Super Mario Bros stood out by seamlessly blending engaging gameplay with the narrative vision of its creators. Unlike many games where the goal was merely to increase a number, Super Mario Bros offered a tale of a resolute and virtuous hero on a mission to save Princess Toadstool, providing a welcome change in a gaming landscape dominated by number-focused games. Compared to other games like Ghostbusters that were popular around the same time, Super Mario Bros was highly praised for its music, gameplay, and enduring impact.

The compelling narrative of “Super Mario Bros” not only enhanced its playing experience but also expanded its cultural influence far beyond its player base. Swiftly, Mario transcended his status as a game character and emerged as a globally recognized icon, with the “Mario” franchise expanding to encompass various forms of media such as films, TV shows, soundtracks, and countless daily discussions among fans. Beyond gaming, Mario symbolizes the very essence of this interactive world, even in non-gaming media outlets.

Mario’s Cultural Impact Reaches Every Media Form on Earth

Over about 22 games, three movies, numerous official merchandise and toys, and a theme park attraction (among other unofficial works), the character known as Mario is prominently featured. This number likely increases significantly when considering unofficial creations. Beyond establishing a media empire that has thrived for four decades and earning the title of the most iconic video game character ever, Mario has attracted millions of fans due to his instantly recognizable branding. Nintendo and the Mario name are often introduced to children from an early age, with many around the world growing up playing Nintendo games and using their products at home, all thanks to the success of Super Mario Bros., which was first released forty years ago.

In a nutshell, even though the Mario series is quite old, it remains incredibly popular. The launch of Super Mario Odyssey for the Nintendo Switch in 2017 was one of its most successful releases, selling more than 29 million copies by March 2025. Fans are eagerly awaiting a new Mario game, despite there already being over 35 mainline and spinoff entries in the series. Although Super Mario Bros. is a basic side-scrolling platform game, its influence on the gaming industry and the world at large cannot be underestimated. Without the rise of platformers that SMB initiated, many beloved video games might never have been created. As you dive into Silksong, take a moment to appreciate Nintendo and Super Mario Bros. for their enduring contribution to the gaming world.

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2025-09-13 16:43