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Who knew that a little Italian plumber with a voluminous mustache could make such an impact on the video gaming world? He seems an unlikely hero — and yet, Mario has become quite the cultural icon. His first appearance was way back in 1981 as a minor character in Donkey Kong. Mario’s creator, Shigeru Miyamoto, didn’t expect him to gain any sort of popularity and at first gave him the impersonal moniker “Jumpman.”
But as fate would have it, the U.S. Nintendo offices were late on their rent one month, and as they sat brainstorming a stronger name for Jumpman, they were interrupted by their displeased landlord demanding payment. His name was — you guessed it — Mario Segale. Inspiration can come from anywhere, right?
These days Mario is an instantly recognizable character, and the Mario Bros. games are one of the top-selling gaming franchises in the history of … well, ever. Not to mention his presence on nearly every type of merchandise you can imagine. As of 2018, the worth of his franchise totaled over $30 billion. That’s a lot of revenue for a plumber!
As parents, we know that Mario hits the “sweet spot.” The games in the Mario Bros. franchise are kid-friendly, yet enjoyable for adults too, and they’re a fun way to bond without worrying about inappropriate content. Plus, not much rivals the satisfaction of lapping your kid in a game of Mario Kart … if you know, you know.
To celebrate this much-loved character, fans created Mario Day — on March 10th, appropriately, since Mar10 looks like “Mario.” And though it wasn’t created by Nintendo, the company (and the retailers who sell its products) wholeheartedly embraced the festivities starting in 2016, and have leaned into it by offered some amazing sales. Keep clicking for some of the best Mario Day deals on Nintendo Switch games and accessories that we’ve found so far.
The Super Mario Bros. Movie – Mushroom Kingdom Castle Playset
Run don’t walk to this limited-time Mario Day deal. The Mushroom Kingdom Castle Playset based on the recent movie is nearly half off on Amazon.
Little Buddy Super Mario All Star Collection Mario Stuffed Plush
Who can resist a plushie of everyone’s favorite plumber? At under $15, this one is more than 25 percent off for Mario Day.
Epoch Games Super Mario Piranha Plant Escape!
One of your favorite Super Mario Bros. games is now available in an IRL tabletop version— and for 25 percent off!
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe — Nintendo Switch Digital Code
Arguably the best version of the game, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is fun for up to four players. And its new Smart Steering feature makes staying on the track easier (so there are fewer meltdowns when you’re playing with little kids!). Bonus: The digital code is more than 30 percent off on Amazon.
Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit — Nintendo Switch
This version of Mario Kart lets you turn your own home into a track! You’ll see it in real time on your Nintendo Switch or TV screen as you compete with other racers and get power-ups that give you a speed boost. But watch out for those red turtle shells! (Psst … it’s on sale right now!)
New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe — Nintendo Switch
This version of Super Mario Bros. U is fun for everyone, but an especially good choice for younger players; two new characters, Toadette and Nabbit, are perfect for beginners because they offer extra assistance during play.
PowerA Enhanced Nintendo Switch Controller Wired
We love the look of this “Mario Vintage” controller from PowerA! It comes with a 10-foot cable and its intuitive button layout feels natural for those of us who may have grown up with … a slightly older model of gaming system. Wink wink!
Luigi’s Mansion 3 – Nintendo Switch Digital Code
This Mario Day deal is all about Luigi! After all, what would Mario be without his brother? Team up with the all-green “Gooigi” to help Luigi navigate through tricky obstacles in this haunted mansion! And with the digital code, you snag extra savings.
LEGO Super Mario Adventures with Mario Starter Course Set
Have a Mario fan who’s also a LEGO aficionado? We’re obsessed with this interactive buildable course. The Mario figure has color sensors and displays over 100 different reactions to movements. It has more than 26 thousand rave reviews and is currently 20 percent off. Say less!
Super Mario St. Patty’s Lucky Charm Mushroom Graphic T-Shirt
Looking to kill two birds with one stone? You can celebrate Mario Day and St. Patrick’s Day (following closely behind!) with this lucky charm mushroom shirt that has just enough green to be pinch-proof while still being subtle enough to wear year-round. (And yes, it’s on sale.)
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