ThePaper MarioRPG-lite serieshas always had a reputation for taking the Mario characters and universe to slightly more unusual places than other Nintendo titles. Even so, the newly discovered Toad sprite hidden within the files ofPaper Mario: The Origami Kingis strange, probably even stranger than most fans might expect. The sprite was found and shared on Twitter by Supper Mario Broth, a blog which specializes in hidden facts and details across the many games in the various Mario series.
Although players can technically see the Toad sprite duringPaper Mario: The Origami King, it is through a telescope at Overlook Tower with a fixed view, which only shows the eyes and mouth. For some reason, developer Intelligent Systems still created and included the full sprite in the game’s code, so it was inevitable that eventually it would be revealed on the internet.
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Of course, a funny or strange hidden discovery ina Nintendo title is always likely to end up as a meme, and gigantic head Toad is no exception. Among the thousands of replies are plenty of images that take the newly-found sprite into even weirder, yet somehow appropriate directions. These include Toad the plug socket, smiley face Toad, and very small faced Toad.
One of the most common reactions has been referencingthe restrictions that developer Intelligent Systems has discussed working within terms of modifying and creating original characters that reference those in the Mario Universe. An issue that has caused many long-time fans of thePaper Marioseries to express disappointment, as it means no more fan-favorite characters like Goombella and Koops. Although the sprite is not actually visible in-game, fans are amused at how significantly gigantic head Toad appears to break those rules, with some even speculating the sprite is a secret comment on, or reaction to the issue from the developer.
Despite the wish from many fans to return to a gameformat closer toSuper Paper MarioandPaper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door, the latest title has received a positive reception. It has also sold well so far, reaching number 2 in the UK and Japanese sales charts in the first week. This suggests that although the restrictions on how Intelligent Systems can use the Mario universe are not popular, it is still doing a great job when it comes to building an entertaining game world.
Of course, even if gigantic head Toad was a deliberate comment on Nintendo’s restrictions, Intelligent Systems is never going to admit it. So fans will simply have to enjoy the discovery and memes, and perhaps continuehoping for a remaster ofPaper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door.
