Why is Mario Called Mario? The Story Behind the Plumber’s Name

▶

Mario, the mustachioed mascot of Nintendo, is a name synonymous with video games. But where did this iconic moniker come from? The answer, surprisingly, lies not in a grand design or mythological inspiration, but in a real-life landlord named Mario Segale. Workers at Nintendo’s American warehouse in Washington began calling the character “Mario” because he bore a resemblance to Segale, their property owner. Shigeru Miyamoto, the character’s creator, heard the nickname and, liking its ring, decided to stick with it. The transition from “Mr. Video” to “Mario” was a practical decision rooted in workplace dynamics, forever cementing the landlord’s name in gaming history.

The Evolution of a Name: From Jumpman to Mario

Early Days: The Birth of Jumpman

Before he was Mario, he was Jumpman. In the arcade classic Donkey Kong (1981), Jumpman was the protagonist attempting to rescue Pauline from the clutches of the titular ape. The name “Jumpman” was straightforward and functional, describing the character’s primary action. However, it lacked the personality and memorability needed for a lasting icon.

The Nintendo of America Connection

The pivotal moment came with the establishment of Nintendo’s American headquarters in Washington. As preparations were underway to release Donkey Kong in the United States, the team needed a more relatable name. This is where Mario Segale, the warehouse landlord, entered the picture.

Mario Segale: The Landlord Who Became a Legend

Mario Segale, a businessman and property developer, leased a warehouse to Nintendo of America. During preparations for the game’s distribution, Segale reportedly confronted Nintendo about overdue rent. The warehouse workers, witnessing the encounter and noting Segale’s physical resemblance to the pixelated Jumpman, began referring to the character as “Mario.”

Miyamoto’s Decision: Sealing the Deal

Shigeru Miyamoto, hearing the nickname, found it appealing and fitting. “Mario” had a friendly, approachable sound, aligning with the character’s intended image. More importantly, it provided a human connection, grounding the fantastical world of the game in reality. The decision to officially rename Jumpman to Mario was a stroke of serendipitous genius.

FAQs: Unveiling More About Mario’s World

Here are some frequently asked questions to further explore the nuances of Mario and his universe:

1. Why is Mario and Luigi’s last name Mario?

   This is a bit of a quirky history. While not initially intended, the 1993 live-action Super Mario Bros. movie established “Mario” as both the first and last name. This decision, while not considered canon by Miyamoto, has stuck in popular culture.

2. How did Mario and Luigi get their names?

   As previously discussed, Mario was named after Mario Segale. Luigi’s name, on the other hand, is said to be a pun on the Italian word “simile” because Luigi was a copy of Mario.

3. What are Mario and Luigi’s full names?

   According to Miyamoto himself, Mario’s full name is Mario Mario, which indirectly confirms Luigi’s full name as Luigi Mario.

4. What was Mario’s original name?

   Before becoming Mario, he was known as Jumpman in the original Donkey Kong arcade game.

5. What is Princess Peach’s full name?

   Princess Peach’s full name is Princess Peach Toadstool. The “Toadstool” part of her name is more commonly used in earlier games and adaptations.

6. Who is Luigi’s girlfriend?

   Luigi is often paired with Princess Daisy. Their relationship is more explicitly depicted in spin-off titles and some adaptations.

7. Does Link have a last name?

   Link, the hero of the Legend of Zelda series, has never been officially given a last name by Nintendo. Miyamoto jokingly suggested “Link Link” as a nod to the Mario brothers.

8. Are Mario and Wario related?

   Originally portrayed as childhood friends, Nintendo later clarified that Mario and Wario are rivals, not relatives.

9. Are Waluigi and Wario brothers?

   Waluigi and Wario are not brothers. Waluigi was created as a partner for Wario in Mario Tennis, specifically to serve as Luigi’s rival.

10. What is the fake Mario name?

    Shadow Mario is a recurring antagonist in the Mario series, often associated with Bowser Jr. He is a doppelgänger of Mario and is identified as the one who messed up Isle Delfino in Super Mario Sunshine.

11. Does Wario have a last name?

    Wario’s last name has never been officially confirmed. Some fan theories suggest “Scapelli,” but this has never been recognized by Nintendo.

12. Who was Mario before he was called Mario?

    Again, before becoming Mario, he was originally called Jumpman.

13. Is Rosalina Peach’s kid?

    Rosalina is not Mario and Peach’s daughter. She is an adult, and her backstory indicates she lived centuries before the current events of the Mario games.

14. Who is Peach’s boyfriend?

    While Mario is often associated with Peach, the animated film Super Mario Bros.: Peach-hime Kyushutsu Dai Sakusen! suggests she has a boyfriend, the Prince of the Flower Kingdom.

15. Who is Luigi’s evil twin?

    While not an “evil twin,” Waluigi serves as Luigi’s rival and counterpart, often partnering with Wario in various games.

The Enduring Legacy of “Mario”

The story of how Mario got his name is a testament to the power of chance and the importance of a memorable moniker. From the humble beginnings of “Jumpman” to the globally recognized “Mario,” the character’s name has played a vital role in his enduring success. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best ideas come from the most unexpected places – like a landlord dispute in a warehouse.

Mario’s impact extends far beyond simple entertainment; he’s a cultural icon used in educational settings to teach game design and development. For those interested in further exploring the intersection of games and learning, the Games Learning Society offers a wealth of resources and research. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more about how games are shaping the future of education and beyond.