March 10th is widely recognised as ‘Mario Day’ (Mar10 – geddit?). Today is likely to bring some news from the big N themselves, but until then why not celebrate by checking out some of these cool toys and accessories?
While Mario is the star jewel in Nintendo’s crown, he didn’t actually make such a big splash originally. The character first appeared as the player character of Donkey Kong (1981), where he was simply known as ‘Jumpman’. His creator, Shigeru Miyamoto, wanted to use Popeye as the protagonist, but when he could not attain the licensing rights he created our favourite plumber instead.
It wasn’t until 1985 when Mario became a star in his own right, beginning with the critically acclaimed Super Mario Bros. in 1985. The rest, as they say, is history.
Mario Day
So why is March 10th considered to be ‘Mario Day’?
Mario Day is an annual celebration of the entire franchise. It takes place on March 10th each year because the date, written as “Mar10”, looks like “Mario”. Although the holiday was not created nor declared by Nintendo, the day is unofficially celebrated by most fans.
Since 2016, Nintendo has officially embraced the holiday and started celebrating annually by promoting games and holding special themed events. So what do you think we’ll see from Nintendo today? A new compilation akin to 2020’s Super Mario 3D All-Stars? Perhaps a trailer for the upcoming untitled Mario animated film? Let us know what you think we’ll see in the comments section below!
Before then however, here’s a selection of cool new toys and accessories to help you celebrate Mario Day!
Super Mario Encyclopedia: The Official Guide to the First 30 Years
What better way to get started than an encyclopedia detailing the superstar’s history? Covering seventeen games from the original Super Mario Bros. to Super Mario 3D World, fans can track the evolution of the Goomba, witness the introduction of Yoshi, and relive favourite levels. This book series also contains an interview with producer Takashi Tezuka, tips to help you find every coin, star, sun, and mushroom. There’s even explanations of glitches.
The limited edition comes with an embossed slipcase specially designed to look like the iconic Question Mark Block. Inside, you’ll find one of four covers; Super Mushroom, Fire Flower, Super Star, or 1-Up Mushroom.
LEGO Question Mark Block
This one is a fantastic addition to your LEGO collection. Based on the Question Mark block from Super Mario 64, this set opens to reveal instantly recognisable levels from the game. Peach’s Castle, Bob-omb Battlefield, Cool, Cool Mountain and Lethal Lava Land are all included. There are also 10 microfigures of iconic characters to place in the detailed scenes. A delightful gift for any series fan, the set comes with step-by-step building instructions.
Hot Wheels Mario Kart Track Set
Everyone loves Mario Kart, right? Well, Hot Wheels provide a number of different sets to satisfy your racing needs! How about heading to Rainbow Road? Or Mario Circuit? Our favourite however, is one not based on any specific track, but instead a high speed Hot Wheels racing challenge.
And if Hot Wheels aren’t your thing, there’s always Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit for some AR racing thrills on Nintendo Switch!
King Koopa Plush
This one’s a bit of an oddity. Remember the Super Mario Bros. Super Show? Sadly, we do. But as part of the franchise’s history many will think of it fondly. So what better way to celebrate than with a new Bowser plush? But not one based on his modern appearance; this plush resembles how he appeared in the much maligned cartoon series!
LEGO Nintendo Entertainment System
Wrapping up our list is a product that, while not strictly a franchise accessory, it does indeed feature the portly plumber. The LEGO Nintendo Entertainment System is a fantastic piece of puzzling that has a handle-operated scrolling screen. If you scan the action brick by placing LEGO Mario (not included) in the slot on top, he will react to the on-screen enemies, obstacles and power-ups!
All the authentic details of the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) console are recreated in LEGO style. This includes a controller, an opening slot and the Game Pak. Whether you were an NES gamer back in the day or are a fan of retro stuff, this 2,646-piece model building kit is ideal for you!
And that wraps up our list for this year. Don’t forget to let us know how you’re celebrating the day in the comments below!
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