After Nearly 40 Years, Mario Still Seeking New Mysteries and Powers in Super Mario Bros. Wonder

Mario's defining traits are jumping ability and motivation to rescue Princess Peach, but he lacks complexity as a character.

Power-ups like mushrooms, flowers, stars, and suits have been key to keeping Mario games exciting for nearly 4 decades.

Super Mario Bros. Wonder introduces "wonder flowers" that trigger psychedelic transformations of each level's environment.

The wonder flower concept emerged midway through Wonder's 10-year development, spurring brainstorming sessions to generate nearly 2,000 ideas.

Some developers were reluctant to alter franchise elements, but management encouraged experimentation, especially with younger staff.