Hotel Mario

A controversial addition to the Mario franchise

Hotel Mario was released in 1994 for the Philips CD-i, a multimedia console that became infamous for hosting several Nintendo-licensed games. The Hotel Mario title marked a significant departure from the traditional Mario gameplay style, shifting to a more puzzle-oriented format. In the game, players control Mario as he attempts to rescue Princess Toadstool from the clutches of Bowser. The game features a series of hotel-themed levels, with players having to close the doors of various hotel rooms to prevent Bowser’s minions from escaping.

Gameplay and reception

Unlike traditional Mario platformers, Hotel Mario is primarily a puzzle game. The objective is to close all the doors in each hotel while avoiding enemies and dealing with other obstacles. The gameplay mechanics were simplistic, but they offered a unique take on the Mario formula, though they were not widely praised. Critics of the game pointed to its clunky controls and repetitive level design, and the game’s reliance on poorly executed cutscenes, which were infamous for their awkward animations and voice acting. These cutscenes became the subject of ridicule online in later years, adding to the game’s cult status as one of the more bizarre Mario spin-offs.

Cult status and legacy

Despite its critical failure, Hotel Mario has achieved a kind of cult following over the years. Its notoriety has made it a topic of interest for collectors and retro gamers, particularly those who are interested in obscure Nintendo-related titles. While it is often considered one of the worst Mario games, it remains a curiosity, not only because of its poor reception but also due to its rarity. As a part of the failed experiment between Nintendo and Philips, Hotel Mario stands as an odd chapter in Mario’s history, illustrating how licensing and partnerships can sometimes lead to unexpected outcomes.

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