On Day 5 of the 12 days of Christmas, we here at the Best Buy Blog are celebrating all things Mario. Super Mario, the videogame world’s most famous Italian plumber, is the most recognizable character in videogame history.
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Mario was created by Japanese video game designer Shigeru Miyamoto, and made his first appearance in 1981, then known only as Jumpman, in the arcade classic Donkey Kong.
2023 has been a phenomenal year for Mario. Both Mario and Luigi started in their own full length feature film, The Super Mario Bros. Movie, had a brand new 2D platforming adventure for the first time in 10 years in Super Mario Bros. Wonder and Mario stared in Super Mario RPG, a remake of a SNES classic RPG. So, for day 5 of 12 days of Christmas, we are going to look at all things Mario that would make perfect gifts!
Nintendo Switch family of systems
The Nintendo Switch family of systems is where Mario calls home and is Nintendo’s latest and greatest hybrid console. You can play at home hooked up to your TV and take with you on the go. There are three distinct models available. The Nintendo Switch OLED model provides a high-end gaming experience, boasting a 7-inch OLED 1080p screen, improved audio, double the internal storage, a more robust kickstand for tabletop play, and a redesigned docking station for TV gaming.
The standard Nintendo Switch features a 6.2-inch LCD 720p screen, allowing for portable and TV play at 1080p. And, finally, the Nintendo Switch Lite is designed for on-the-go gaming, sporting a 5.5-inch LCD 720p screen, non-detachable Joy-Con controllers, and the inability to connect to a TV.
Purchase a Nintendo Switch Switch console
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Super Mario Bros. Wonder
Super Mario Bros. Wonder is a return to the classic 2D Mario platforming that captures the magic of the series. The game takes place in the Flower Kingdom, and takes you on a magical journey through six worlds circling the Petal Isles, each brimming with surprises. The story kicks off with Mario and friends visiting Prince Florian’s castle, but, of course, things take a turn when Bowser shows up, eyeing the Wonder Flower and causing chaos. One of the many things that makes this game stand out is the ability to play as Mario, Luigi, Peach, Daisy, Blue Toad, Yellow Toad, or Toadette.
And, if you’re not a Mario pro, there’s no need to worry. Both Nabbit and Yoshis won’t take damage, making it a pleasurable experience for casual gamers. However, the thing that makes this game stand out the most are badges. These little gems unlock new abilities and power-ups, spicing up the gameplay. They make the game fun for everyone, no matter your skill level. From fancy wall-jumping, to graceful floating, all the way to a dolphin kick for underwater sections. Super Mario Bros. Wonder encourages exploration with cleverly designed levels hiding secrets in plain sight. And the power-ups? They’re a blast! The Elephant form lets you trample your enemies, the Bubble Flower offers high jumps and long-range attacks, and the Drill Mushroom is perfect for dealing with spiky enemies.
And don’t forget the multiplayer fun! You can play with friends locally or connect online. It’s a party with up to four players on the same Switch, and if someone bites the dust, they turn into a friendly ghost until rescued. With its clever design, exciting power-ups, and the innovative Wonder Seeds, Super Mario Bros. Wonder is a must-have.
Purchase Super Mario Bros. Wonder on Nintendo Switch
Super Mario RPG
Super Mario RPG, a beloved classic from the SNES, is available on Nintendo Switch. This revamped version brings fresh graphics, a remixed soundtrack, and modern RPG elements while staying true to the charm of the original game. Mario, Bowser, Princess Peach, Mallow and Geno reunite for this nostalgic adventure. The story begins with Bowser snatching Princess Peach, and as expected, Mario sets off to rescue her. However, things take an unexpected turn when a colossal sword named Exor, part of the menacing Smithy Gang, crashes into the castle. This event propels Mario into a quest filled with surprising alliances and quirky foes that add a fun twist to the Mario universe.
The game’s combat system keeps you engaged with its turn-based style and requires precise button presses. There’s a variety of attacks and gear to play with, offering strategic depth that might catch you by surprise. Customization is a big part of the game, allowing you to deck out your heroes with accessories, badges, and equipment. There’s also a bunch of extra stuff to do beyond the main story, like puzzles, side-quests, and mini-games, ensuring there’s always something new to discover.
The Switch version isn’t just a prettier version of the old game; it’s a thoughtful update. The graphics maintain their original charm while adding modern touches. Short cut-scenes enhance the storytelling, and you can choose between original or remastered music. Super Mario RPG on the Nintendo Switch honours the classic while catering to both long-time fans and newcomers. It’s a game that’s been revamped with attention to detail, making it a delightful experience for anyone diving into this world.
Purchase Super Mario RPG on Nintendo Switch
Themed plush toys
Speaking as a parent and die hard gamer, you’re never too old to enjoy plush toys. These are great stocking stuffers and Best Buy stocks a full line up of Little Buddies plush toys. These feature some of the most iconic characters from the Super Mario Bros. universe including Mario, Luigi, Baby Peach, Tanooki Mario, Toad and more!
The Super Mario Bros. Movie and board game
One of the biggest movies of 2023 was The Super Mario Bros. Movie from Nintendo and Illumination. The movie has grossed more than $1.36 billion worldwide and has become the highest grossing film based on a video game after just one week release. The movie tells the origin story of the Super Mario brothers, Mario and Luigi. It’s a great movie for the whole family and any Super Mario fan.
Purchase The Super Mario Bros. Movie Blu-ray combo or 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray
Not only did Mario star in a brand new movie, but our favourite Italian plumber also got a new board game based on The Super Mario Bros Movie called Monopoly: Super Mario Bros. Movie Edition family board game. Instead of the usual Monopoly money, you’ll be chasing after gold coins as you compete to gather the most and secure your victory. Get an extra income boost by owning entire sets of properties, just like in Monopoly. But watch out for Bowser, who can cause trouble by snatching properties, grabbing your coins, or even sending you to Jail! Monopoly: Super Mario Bros. Movie Edition is a twist on the classic Monopoly game with the fun and familiar Mario universe elements.
Purchase Monopoly: Super Mario Bros. Movie Edition family board game
LEGO Super Mario
There are a full line up of LEGO Super Mario sets, which offer exciting and interactive experiences for gamers of all ages by combining the timeless appeal of LEGO with the iconic Super Mario series. Featuring bricks and interactive figures, the sets allow you to recreate favourite scenes from the games or invent new adventures. Popular characters such as LEGO Mario, LEGO Luigi, and LEGO Peach enhance the immersive experience. Overall, the LEGO Super Mario sets provide hours of interactive and imaginative play for gamers throughout the year.
Click here for the full line of LEGO Super Mario sets available at Bestbuy.ca
Day 5 of 12 days of Christmas is for all things Super Mario
There you have it! My choice for the gift idea on the 5th day in our 12 Days of Christmas feature on the blog is all things Mario. As you can see, Best Buy carries a wide variety items that make the perfect gift for the Super Mario fan on your holiday list.
Be sure to come back tomorrow for Day 6 of our 12 Days of Christmas feature.
Click here to see the full line of video game software available at Bestbuy.ca
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After purchasing a Switch, my kids love “racing Mario” and “walking around Mario” and love to explore. Looking this holiday to get them a new Mario. My childhood favourite series.
My grandchildren love Super Mario. My grandson loves Lego and my granddaughter loves playing board games
Would love the chance to have some friendly family competitions over the holidays before everyone gets busy.
Would love to gift this to my son Josh. He would really love and appreciate this. Thank you for your generosity.
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