Is Mario Hardcore? (Help me win an argument please)

[adamantium]

Hi there.

This is my first post on here, even though I visit the site often.  I'm currently embroiled in an online discussion with some narrow minded individuals regarding Mario.

I am trying to argue that Mario is still classed as a game suitable for the hardcore crowd, but I keep getting beaten down with the 'Mario is only for kids' argument.

I'm wondering if any of you can assist me in my argument.

Is Mario still relevant as a hardcore game?

Thanks.