Luigi

Luigi emblem

MarioLuigi MarioBrosSprites

Luigi vacuum

File:Mario and Luigi Paper Jam Luigi.png

Mario and Luigi Paper Jam Luigi

Luigi is a fictional character featured in video games and media produced by Nintendo. He is the younger twin brother of Mario, one of the most iconic and enduring characters in the history of video games. Luigi first appeared in the 1983 arcade game Mario Bros., where he was introduced as Mario's brother and a fellow plumber. Over the years, Luigi has evolved from a simple palette swap of Mario to a distinct character with his own personality, abilities, and fan base.

Character Development

Luigi's character has been developed to contrast with Mario. While Mario is bold and adventurous, Luigi is often portrayed as timid and cautious. However, Luigi has had moments where he steps out from his brother's shadow and becomes the hero, most notably in games like Luigi's Mansion series, where he takes on the role of a ghost hunter. Luigi's distinct green color and taller, thinner appearance differentiate him from Mario, helping to establish him as a separate entity within the Nintendo universe.

Appearances in Video Games

Luigi has appeared in a wide range of video games, both as a playable character and as part of the game's narrative. His appearances span across various genres, including platformers, racing games, and RPGs. Some of the notable games featuring Luigi include:

- Super Mario Bros. series, where he can be played as the second player in many of the games. - Luigi's Mansion series, which focuses on Luigi's adventures in haunted mansions where he captures ghosts using a specialized vacuum cleaner. - Mario Kart series, where Luigi is one of the racers. - Paper Mario and Mario & Luigi series, which are RPGs that often feature Luigi as a main character or a supporting character with a significant role.

Cultural Impact

Luigi has become a beloved character in his own right, with a dedicated fan base. He represents the underdog or the overlooked sibling, a theme that resonates with many people. Nintendo has acknowledged Luigi's popularity by declaring 2013 as the "Year of Luigi," during which several games focusing on Luigi were released, and various promotions were held to celebrate the character.

In Other Media

Aside from video games, Luigi has appeared in various other media, including television shows, comics, and merchandise. He was a main character in the animated series The Super Mario Bros. Super Show! and its successors, where he was portrayed as cautious but loyal to his brother Mario.

Conclusion

Luigi's evolution from a secondary character to a hero in his own right demonstrates Nintendo's ability to create deep and enduring characters. His distinct personality and abilities, combined with his role as Mario's brother, make him an integral part of the Nintendo universe. Luigi continues to be a favorite among fans, symbolizing the importance of bravery, even in the face of fear. Template:Video game character-stub