Game development is a thrilling journey filled with creativity, and Nintendo’s newest RPG, Mario & Luigi: Brothership, showcases an interesting aspect of character design that many players may not be aware of.
The Unexpected Design
During a recent post-release interview on Nintendo’s website, game designer Hitomi Furuta candidly shared something amazing: the Mario brothers were almost radically different. The research uncovered details about design concepts that would have transformed our beloved characters into something entirely unexpected.
Initially, the development team explored a gritty, battle-worn aesthetic for Mario and Luigi. Imagine Mario not in his pristine, cheerful outfit, but covered in dirt, wearing torn clothing, and sporting a yellow raincoat instead of his iconic costume. These designs marked a big shift from Nintendo’s usual lighthearted style for the characters.
Furuta admitted the team went through a substantial creative detour. “We weren’t conscious of our original vision initially,” she explained, revealing the internal struggle to create a fresh take on the Mario & Luigi dynamic. The team experimented with presenting a more rugged, edgy version of the characters – almost like a Metal Gear-inspired reimagining.
Nintendo’s Design Philosophy
However, Nintendo‘s core philosophy quickly redirected the design process. The company believes in keeping the characters’ recognizable traits, especially since they have a young audience to consider. Rough, battle-damaged designs would potentially upset younger players who are accustomed to Mario’s cheerful appearance.
These rejected designs give us an interesting look into the creative process behind one of the most well-known franchises in gaming. While the edgier concept didn’t make the final cut, it demonstrates the intricate decision-making involved in character development.
The final version of Mario & Luigi: Brothership ultimately returned to the familiar Mushroom Kingdom aesthetic, preserving the characters’ beloved characteristics and ensuring the game remains accessible and enjoyable for its core audience.
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