Why has Mario had such unmatched staying power?

[SaviorX]

 

It has been about 30 years since Mario was conceived in the mind of Nintendo employees. Thousands of games have come and gone, but Mario is still here, selling games by the literal boatload.

What is it that as given Mario such lasting appeal and overall recognition? What does it take for a franchise to remain relevant in 4 different decades? Why, in so many years, has not one VG character (outside of Nintendo) come anywhere close to this character's popularity?

Maybe it is:

• The music - Often times even the most mediocre of games live on through their musical compositions. In the Mario universe, even a single sound effect can be acknowledged as something from a Mario game. Its classic melodies have withstood the test of time, and still permeate today.
• The characters design- Mario is a weird character. He is round, and has a plump pinchable face, but he has a mustache...He is a grown man, but still childish in a way. He has a dangerous dynamic that somehow appeals to every type of person, as opposed to Sonic the Hedgehog, whose edge fends off certain demographics.
• The gameplay- who knew running and jumping could be expanded into such an amazing and engaging experience. The simple objective to move forward is something that has captivated every type of person who has played the platformers. With a game associated, Mario has been able to branch off into other genres with a dedicated fanbase trailing along for the next ride.
• The advertising- a game isn’t a big deal unless it has a cereal based on it, and Mario is that game. The stickers, hats, Halloween costumes, SM64 cameras, pins, billboards, corny film, lunchboxes and senseless commercials with a global Mario face has made people aware of Mario, and the fact that within pop culture, he has found his place.

 

So what do you think has made Mario the megastar?