Retro Gamer Presents - The Book of Mario - 11th Edition - 28 March 2024

When Shigeru Miyamoto created Jumpman for his new platform game, Donkey Kong, it’s highly unlikely that he realised he was creating the most recognisable gaming character of all time. That’s exactly what happened though, and after a quick name change to Mario as well as a change in job professions (he started off life as a carpenter) the mascot to end all mascots was born. Unlike his biggest competitor, Sonic, Mario has rarely starred in a duff platformer and while he’s not immune to the odd turkey (Mario Is Missing, we’re looking at you) his core platforming adventures have always been regarded as some of the best around.
Everyone remembers the first time they discovered the princess they were rescuing was in another castle, or their first encounter with Bowser. They remember the impact of witnessing a 3D Mario in Super Mario 64 or the time they
tore across Rainbow Road in Super Mario Kart. Even if you’re not a big fan of Mario like us, there’s no denying the incredible impact he’s had on the games industry. To celebrate Nintendo’s most prominent player, we’ve selected the best features from past issues of Retro Gamer and have also added plenty of new ones that cover every aspect of the popular character. We hope you enjoy reading it as much
as we enjoyed making it. So in the words of the big man himself: here we go!