Summary
These days it’s hard to name something from theSuper Mariofranchise that hasn’t become iconic. Nintendo’s legendary plumber and his platforming adventures have almost become synonymous with the video game industry itself, and most gamers can pretty easilyrecognize just about any characterfrom the games.
A member of theMariocanon that needs no introduction is thegoomba. These humble walking mushrooms serve as the first enemy players will meet in mostMariogames, and while their offensive capabilities are limited, their ubiquitous nature and odd charm help them stand out. As the franchise has grown larger and more complex, Nintendo has even turned some of these charming little fungal foes into memorable and even lovable characters.
The Goomba King serves as one of the very first bosses players will face in the originalPaper Mario. Not long after Mario’s initial defeat at the hands of Bowser and the mystical Star Rod, the iconic plumber is forced to confront the tyrannical Goomba King. This oversized fungal menace is a regular goomba who was empowered by the Star Rod to block Mario’s path.
Asan early boss, the Goomba Kingis a relatively nonthreatening opponent. However, he would later resurface in the DS version ofSuper Mario 64, where he kidnaps Mario himself. Players must defeat him as Yoshi if they want to earn the ability to play as the legendary plumber.
Super Mario Odysseyhas a lot of claims to fame, but arguably its biggest selling point is the ability to take control of enemies, NPCs, and even certain parts of the terrain simply by throwing a hat at them. This opens up almost unparalleled opportunities for creativity and mobility as players navigate the game’s expansive levels.
Goombette represents another important use of the hat mechanic. Thisshy female goombais looking for love, and if Mario takes control of another goomba and presents it to her, she’ll reward him with a Power Moon. Goombette appears frequently throughout the game, often requiring Mario to stack goombas in order to catch her eye.
2017’s remake of the classic RPGMario & Luigi: Superstar Sagaincludeda new story modecalledBowser’s Minions, and this new adventure is where Captain Goomba shines. This loyal goomba’s quest takes place simultaneously to the events of the main game and even intersects with Mario’s quest at key points.
After Bowser is defeated by Cackletta and Fawful, Captain Goomba begins rallying his minions and forming an army to save their commander. This gives players a chance to get up close and personal with Bowser’s army like never before. And while Captain Goomba may not be the most competent commander, his eagerness and loyalty help carry him through.
Private Goomp is a recurring character in theMario and LuigiRPGs. He appears frequently as a long-suffering member of Bowser’s legion and a member of the Elite Trio, a squadron of three common enemy types who fight together to take down Mario and Luigi.
Unlike the many goombas frequently depicted struggling and working underBowser’s tyrannical rule, Private Goomp harbors secret ambitions. It’s revealed that he secretly dreams of being in charge of Bowser’s empire and even bossing around the infamous Koopa King himself. InBowser’s Inside Story, Private Goomp and the Elite Trio even betray their ruler, trapping him in a safe after being bribed off by Fawful.
4Goombario (Paper Mario)
A Stalwart Ally
After Mario’s ignominious defeat at the hands of Bowser and the powerful Star Rod inPaper Mario, the woebegone plumber is rescued by Goombario and his loving family. This youthful goomba serves asMario’s first companionas he sets out to rescue Princess Peach and reclaim the mystical artifact.
Goombario is a plucky and enthusiastic helper, and his aid inPaper Mariois invaluable. He can scan enemies and fill Mario in on their stats, helping the plumber approach battle from a much more strategic angle. His enthusiasm and kindness also help lighten the mood on Mario’s adventure.
Goomhilde is first introduced as a high-ranking member of Bowser’s legion, mustering her troops to help the antagonist retake his castle from the villainous Smithy and his gang. After this operation fails, Goomhilde can later be found running the Weapon and Armor shop in Monstro Town. After fleeing the failed attack, Goomhilde not only opened a small business but had three small children who help her run the store.
Surprisingly, Bowser forgives this act of desertion, and they part on amicable terms. While many goomba characters are presented as brief, one-off jokes, it’s remarkable to see a shop owner like Broomhilde get such a meaningful and personal storyline. It’s all the more surprising and heartwarming that she getsthis happy endingwith Bowser’s blessing.
Professor Frankly is one of the most important characters inPaper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door. When Mario is first alerted to the mystery of the Crystal Stars and their connection to Princess Peach’s disappearance, he’s led to Professor Frankly, a helpful but eccentric sage who helps the plumber decipher the ancient legends, as well as master the basics of combat.
Frankly is a regular fixture in Mario’s journey, aiding the heroic plumber whenever he needs guidance. While his strange demeanor may make him difficult to connect to, his helpful nature and wealth of information more than make up for it.
1Goombella (Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door)
A Firebrand Follower
Goombella is one of the very first characters Mario meets on his adventure to rescue Princess Peach and collect the Crystal Stars. After Mario saves her from being harassed by the villainous X-nauts, she joins his side and lends him her aid.
Like Goombario in the previous game, Goombella can use her Tattle ability to provide combat information on Mario’s foes. Her personality shines through in these briefings, as she will often add her own insights and remarks, sometimes commenting onhow cute an enemy isor wondering where a Hammer Bro keeps all its spare hammers. Her passionate personality and high confidence make her a lovable and memorable addition to Mario’s squad.
