Mario is one of the most recognized video game characters around the world, and has been starring in classic video games every since he made his first appearance as a character named Jumpman in the arcade game, Donkey Kong.
Gamers around the world are familiar with the 8 bit look of the game, but most of them don't know what the story behind the game is!
Originally, Donkey Kong was Mario's pet, but Mario was a terrible owner and didn't take care of his monkey friend. Angered, Donkey Kong broke free from Mario and kidnapped Princess Peach, who was then known as the Lady.
The reason Donkey Kong kidnapped the Lady, was because he was trying to get revenge on Jumpman!
After the games unbelievable success, the characters were given real names, more games were made, and the rest is history.