El March 10. It has become a special date for video game fans around the world, as it celebrates the Mario Bros DayThis tribute to Nintendo's iconic plumber has a curious reason behind it: the combination of the abbreviation for the month of March with the number 10 ('MAR10') forms a play on words that resembles his name.
Although the gaming community had been celebrating this date on their own for years, Nintendo officially recognized it in 2016, consolidating it as a global celebration with events, promotions and activities in honor of one of the most beloved characters in the history of video games.
The origin of Mario Day
The famous character of Mario Bros made its first appearance in 1981 in the video game 'Donkey Kong' under the name Jumpman. Initially, this character was a carpenter who had to rescue a lady in distress from a giant gorilla. It was not until 1983 that he took on his definitive identity as a plumber in the title 'Mario Bros', where he shared the spotlight with his brother Luigi.
Interestingly, the name 'Mario' arose in honor of Mario Rye, an American businessman who rented a warehouse to Nintendo in the United States. It is said that after an argument over late payment, the company decided to name the character after him as a gesture of recognition.
How Mario Day is celebrated
Every March 10, Nintendo and its fans organize various activities to commemorate the career of the popular character. Among the most notable actions are:
- Video game marathons: Players relive Mario's adventures in iconic titles such as 'Super Mario Bros.', 'Super Mario 64' and 'Mario Kart.'
- Discounts and promotions: Nintendo is offering special discounts on several games in its Nintendo Switch catalog, allowing fans to purchase Mario titles at reduced prices.
- Themed events in stores and on social media: Many followers use the hashtag #MAR10Day to share images, videos and memories related to the character.
- Contests and sweepstakes: Among the most striking initiatives of this year, the following stands out: Giveaway for a trip to Super Nintendo World at Universal Orlando Resort for four people.
Releases and news for MAR10 Day
As part of this year's celebrations, Nintendo has prepared several surprises for its fans. Among them, the incorporation of the Super Mario Bros. 3 soundtrack to its Nintendo Music platform, allowing Switch Online subscribers to enjoy the music from this legendary title.
In addition, those who want to take advantage of exclusive offers will be able to find discounts on games such as 'Super Mario Odyssey', 'Mario Kart 8 Deluxe' and 'Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury'. Community challenges have also been organized within 'Mario Kart 8 Deluxe', available from March 7 to 17.
Mario Bros Avenue in Zaragoza
Few people know it, but in Spain there is a place that pays permanent tribute to Mario Bros. In the city of Zaragoza there is the Super Mario Bros. Avenue, a name voted for by the residents of the Arcosur neighborhood in 2010. This curious street is considered an example of how video games have influenced contemporary culture.
The cultural impact of Mario Bros is indisputable. Since its debut, Mario has been one of the most influential characters in the history of entertainmentHe has appeared in countless video games, television series, films and merchandising products, establishing himself as an iconic figure in popular culture.
The success of the character was such that, in 2006, the Japanese government included 'Super Mario Bros' in its list of 100 most representative artistic media of the country. Today, his legacy lives on with new Nintendo titles and projects, ensuring that his popularity does not disappear.
With official events, discounts on games and an enthusiastic community celebrating, the March 10 has become a special day for millions of players around the world. Whether playing classic Mario games or participating in events organised by Nintendo, there is no doubt that the legacy of the beloved plumber will live on for many generations to come.
