Super Mario returns for epic “Odyssey”

Super Mario Odyssey (Nintendo Switch) sees the eponymous Italian plumber return to an open world format for the first time since 2002

MARIO’S ODYSSEY (selective history)

Inspired by comic strip character Popeye, Shigeru Miyamoto (left) creates Donkey Kong arcade game for Nintendo of Japan featuring Jumpman, later renamed Mario in U.S.

Release of Super Mario Bros for NES (Nintendo Entertainment System)*. First side-scrolling 2D platform game to feature Mario

Super Mario Land, launch game and first Mario title, for Game Boy handheld

Super Mario Bros movie†, starring Bob Hoskins, John Leguizamo and Dennis Hopper

Mario receives 3D makeover with release of Super Mario 64 on N64, his first open world sandbox game — 11.9m units sold

Super Mario Sunshine for GameCube, Mario’s second 3D sandbox game — 6.3m copies sold

Mind-bending 3D landscapes to explore in Super Mario 3D Land for 3DS handheld

Mario’s first foray on smartphone. Reviews generally positive, but criticised for lack of originality

One control: Tap to jump (Mario auto-runs)

Third Super Mario 3D sandbox adventure Out: Nov 27
In series departure, Mario gains magic hat Cappy, which he can use to possess enemies


* known as Famicom in Japan  † Widely derided – Rotten T omatoes score: 3.7/10
Sources: Nintendo, Apple, Super Mario Wiki, wire agencies Pictures: Nintendo, AP
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