Lara Croft is a fictional character and the main protagonist of the video game franchise Tomb Raider. She is presented as a highly intelligent and athletic British archaeologist who ventures into ancient tombs and hazardous ruins around the world.Mario, the iconic and beloved character created by Nintendo, made his debut in the gaming world in the arcade classic "Donkey Kong" in 1981. However, in his initial appearance, Mario was not depicted as a plumber, but rather as a carpenter named "Jumpman."
Developed by Nintendo's legendary game designer Shigeru Miyamoto, "Donkey Kong" introduced players to the world of platform gaming and laid the foundation for Mario's illustrious journey as one of the most recognizable and enduring characters in video game history.
In "Donkey Kong," Mario—then known as Jumpman—was tasked with rescuing his girlfriend, originally named Lady, who had been kidnapped by a giant gorilla named Donkey Kong. Players controlled Jumpman as he maneuvered through a series of construction-themed stages to reach Lady and defeat Donkey Kong.
Jumpman's appearance in the game was notably different from the familiar plumber attire associated with Mario in later iterations. He sported a red cap and overalls, but his profession was depicted as that of a carpenter rather than a plumber. His signature mustache, however, was already a part of his distinctive appearance.
The name "Mario" was not initially associated with the character. It wasn't until later, after the success of "Donkey Kong," that Nintendo officially named the character "Mario" as a tribute to Mario Segale, a landlord who rented a warehouse to Nintendo of America and reportedly had a resemblance to the character. From that point on, Jumpman became Mario, and the rest, as they say, is history.
The immense popularity of "Donkey Kong" and the character Mario led to the creation of subsequent games featuring the now-renamed plumber. Nintendo continued to develop Mario's universe, introducing new characters, environments, and gameplay mechanics that captivated players across generations.
Mario's evolution as a character has seen him take on various roles and professions throughout the years, from a plumber and athlete to a kart racer and hero saving the Mushroom Kingdom from the clutches of Bowser, his arch-nemesis. His adventures expanded into numerous successful franchises, including the iconic "Super Mario Bros.," "Mario Kart," "Super Mario 64," and many more.
The legacy of Mario's humble beginnings as Jumpman in "Donkey Kong" remains a testament to the creativity, innovation, and enduring appeal of Nintendo's gaming universe. The character's transformation from a carpenter in an arcade game to a globally recognized icon has left an indelible mark on the world of video games, making Mario a cultural phenomenon celebrated by fans of all ages across the globe.