Luigi

File:MarioLuigi MarioBrosSprites.svg

File:Mario and Luigi Paper Jam Luigi.png

Luigi is a fictional character featured in the Mario franchise by Nintendo. He is the younger brother of Mario and is often portrayed as a sidekick or secondary protagonist in the series. Luigi is known for his taller, slimmer physique and his green color scheme, which contrasts with Mario's red.

History

Luigi first appeared in the arcade game Mario Bros. in 1983, where he was introduced as the second player character. Since then, he has appeared in numerous games across various genres, including platformers, racing games, and role-playing games.

Early Appearances

In his early appearances, Luigi was primarily a palette swap of Mario, sharing the same abilities and characteristics. However, as the series evolved, Luigi developed his own distinct personality and abilities. In Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels, Luigi was given unique gameplay mechanics, such as higher jumps and lower traction, setting him apart from Mario.

Character Development

Luigi's character has been further developed in games like Luigi's Mansion, where he takes on the role of a ghost hunter. This game marked the first time Luigi was the main protagonist, showcasing his bravery and resourcefulness. The success of Luigi's Mansion led to sequels and solidified Luigi's status as a beloved character in the franchise.

Personality

Luigi is often depicted as timid and cautious, in contrast to his more adventurous brother, Mario. Despite his fearfulness, Luigi is shown to be brave when it matters most, often stepping up to save the day. His personality is further explored in games like Luigi's Mansion and Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga.

Abilities

Luigi possesses abilities similar to Mario, such as jumping and running, but with some differences. He is known for his higher jump and unique power-ups, such as the Poltergust 3000, a vacuum cleaner used to capture ghosts in the Luigi's Mansion series. Luigi also has a distinctive "flutter jump" in games like Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Island.

Appearances in Other Media

Luigi has appeared in various other media, including animated television series, comics, and films. He was portrayed by John Leguizamo in the 1993 live-action film Super Mario Bros.. Luigi also appears in the Super Smash Bros. series as a playable character.

Cultural Impact

Luigi has become an iconic character in video game culture, often celebrated for his underdog status and unique personality. He has a dedicated fanbase and is frequently featured in Nintendo's marketing and merchandise.

Also see

• Mario (character)
• Luigi's Mansion
• Super Mario Bros.
• Nintendo
• Super Smash Bros.