Publisher: Bandai Co., Ltd.
A unique take on the Mario universe
Released by Bandai in 1991, Super Mario World: Mario to Yoshi no Bōken Land is a 28-minute long interactive anime video inspired by Super Mario World. It was developed for the Terebikko (てれびっこ) system, a unique toy-like phone device.
Gameplay that speaks to you
Although it pushes the definition of what a video game is, the Terebikko system allowed viewers to participate by answering multiple-choice questions using four numbered buttons, each with a different color (red, blue, green, yellow).
The system connects to the TV’s audio output jack, and throughout the video, the viewer receives calls from characters on-screen, and answers questions using the telephone. The phone uses signals from the video (inaudible through the built-in speaker), to interact with the viewer, as such for giving bad or good answers.
The game’s charm was in its simplicity, designed for younger players who could engage with the characters without needing to master complex controls. The voice-driven interaction was an early example of how technology could bridge the gap between players and characters, making it feel like an active, dynamic experience.
A rare and unique collectible
As part of the Terebikko system, Super Mario World: Mario to Yoshi no Bōken Land is a rare find for collectors. The system itself was short-lived, limiting the number of people who ever experienced this game. For those who enjoy Mario’s lesser-known titles or are passionate about gaming history, this title is an intriguing piece of Mario’s expansive legacy. It stands out as a curious experiment in the gaming world, focusing on communication and interaction in a way that was novel for its time, adding to the rich tapestry of Mario’s legacy beyond the traditional consoles.
