Mario is a fictional character created by Japanese video game designer Shigeru Miyamoto. First appearing in the 1981 arcade game 'Donkey Kong', Mario was originally created as a carpenter before transitioning into a plumber. Over time, he became the mascot for Nintendo and has starred in numerous video games, becoming one of the most iconic characters in gaming history. The character's journey has taken him through various realms, from the fantastical world of the Mushroom Kingdom to outer space, and he's faced off against many memorable foes, primarily Bowser, the king of the Koopas. With each new game installment, Mario's adventures evolved, introducing gamers to new gameplay mechanics, environments, and characters while retaining his core persona as a brave and cheerful hero. The franchise includes platformers, racing, sports, and even role-playing games, showcasing Mario's versatility and appeal across generations.