Shiro Mouri, the driving force behind Super Mario Bros. Wonder and producer Takashi Tezuka, recently gave insight into the game’s development process at the Game Developers Conference. They shared several early ideas that didn’t make it into the final version, including concepts of a surfing Mario, a unicycle-riding Mario, and a pogo-stick bouncing Mario.
These creative masters also unveiled a unique game-level prototype in which Mario morphs into a large block. The gameplay revolves around the large-block Mario navigating the level while avoiding obstacles that could ‘ingest’ him. The idea added an extra layer of complexity, demanding the players adjust their strategies and skills to progress in the game.
Tezuka acknowledged that multiple concepts were abandoned during the game’s developmental phase.
Tinged with nostalgia, he recalls this time as one of creative exploration with no deadlines, and the developers enjoyed a sense of unbounded freedom. While the discarded ideas didn’t make it into the game, Tezuka credits these concepts as a significant part of the creative process. Despite technological limitations and practical deadlines, he believes this trial-and-error process helped shape Super Mario Bros. Wonder into its final version.
Responses from the gaming community varied. Some expressed disappointment over the scrapped ideas, while others found intrigue in the unique concepts. The innovative gameplay mechanics were appreciated mainly as a refreshing addition to the gaming world. However, critics worried about over-complication, potentially deterring casual gamers. Regardless, it’s clear that the gaming community remains highly invested in any new developments or revelations about the game.
Positive sentiment prevails among those who appreciated the game
A positive sentiment also prevailed among those who appreciated the game’s ultimate simplicity and found contentment in its final shape. Many lauded the direct and straightforward gameplay, giving a thumbs-up to the game’s final version and the developers’ design decisions.
The recent revelations about the previously unseen facets of Super Mario Bros. Wonder’s design have heightened anticipation and speculation about what might be next for the franchise. The game’s fans sit on the edge of their seats, awaiting updates about the future of the Super Mario universe.
