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Shigeru Miyamoto, who needs no introduction, has revealed what he believes is one of the more unique and important "inventions" in his seminal game Super Mario Bros. And it's not warp pipes, Bullet Bills, or even the greatest character in the history of Nintendo, Lakitu.
Speaking in an interview with Denfaminicogamer, Miyamoto reflected on his career, particularly his earlier years with Nintendo. These formative years would see him create one of the most notable gaming franchises of all time: Super Mario Bros. The 1985 NES platformer gave rise to a globally recognised mascot in its hero, Mario, and is still held up as a blueprint for an entire genre, having popularised many design elements that are frequently taken for granted.
But, perhaps surprisingly, Miyamoto noted that he thinks one of the biggest innovations of the classic adventure was his decision that Mario should not physically "beat" the game's villain, Bowser, and instead should use his skill to avoid the King of the Koopas, ultimately using his agility (and a handy nearby axe) to defeat the monstrous monarch.
Explains Miyamoto:
"Mario doesn't actually fight Bowser... Normally, if there's a boss at the end, you have to fight him, right? Then I realised that since this is a game where you keep running to the right, how about making it so that the person who reaches the furthest right wins?"
"So I had a brilliant idea: 'Why not just jump over the opponent instead of fighting?' All you have to do is jump over Bowser, and he'll fall. I found it surprisingly fun when I tried it, and I was really happy when I realised that."
This past weekend, Miyamoto was awarded Japan's Order of Culture 2026, a highly prestigious gong given to figures who have made significant and groundbreaking contributions to the art and culture of the country. Miyamoto will be presented with the physical award - by no less than Japan's Emperor Naruhito - at a ceremony to be held on November 3 - Japan's national "Culture Day".
Coincidentally, Miyamoto will receive the award the same week as the launch of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, another franchise whose roots were planted by the 73-year-old designer.
Having previously been selected as "Person of Cultural Merit" back in 2019, it seems quite clear that Japan recognises the notability Miyamoto's worlds and characters have brought to the country (not to mention more than a few Gold Coins). Given Miyamoto's role in creating some of the most beloved and globally recognisable franchises in gaming history - not to mention contributing to the joy and memories of generations of gaming fans - the plaudits are beyond deserved.