Super Mario RPG Remake: Did the Nintendo Cameos Make the Cut?
Back in the ’90s, Nintendo was known for its carefree approach to incorporating characters from various franchises into its games. Yoshi would unexpectedly appear in The Legend of Zelda, while Kirby would change colors at will, from gray to pink. One prime example of this laissez-faire attitude was the release of Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars for the Super Nintendo in 1996. The game featured cameos from Link, Samus, and even Donkey Kong, which left fans wondering if these appearances would be retained in the remake. Let’s dive into the details!
Link’s Cameo: A Nod to the Legend of Zelda
Surprisingly, the answer is yes! In the remake, you will still find Link sleeping in a neighboring bed. As you approach him, a “talk” option appears, accompanied by a nostalgic Zelda musical sting. It’s a delightful callback to the iconic character.
The Mysterious Donkey Kong Cameo
Donkey Kong’s cameo in Super Mario RPG has always been enigmatic. Although labeled as “Guerilla” in the game, the character bears a striking resemblance to Donkey Kong, complete with a crown. Additionally, the enemy model in the game throws barrels, leaving little room for doubt about the connection. The cameo may not have a definitive answer, but it’s hard to deny the similarities.
Memorable Appearances: Samus, Famicom ROB, and More
The remake doesn’t stop there with the cameos. On the top floor of Booster’s Tower, you will stumble upon a box containing a Samus figure, a car from the Super Nintendo game Stunt Race FX, and Diskun. Diskun, the mascot for the Famicom Disk System in Japan, made appearances in the hardware’s instruction booklet. Strangely enough, if you revisit the tower later in the game, the Peach figure will have been replaced by a Famicom ROB, who had been stealthily hiding all along.
Not only in the form of a collectible figure, but Samus also makes another appearance in the game. Similar to Link, she is found sleeping in a bed, presumably preparing for her battle against Mother Brain.
Final Fantasy Crossovers
In addition to these Nintendo cameos, Super Mario RPG also features nods to the Final Fantasy franchise. Fans of Final Fantasy VI will be delighted to spot the iconic mech from the game on the ground floor of Booster’s Tower. Another cameo takes the form of Bahamut in the Super Mario RPG style. This appearance occurs towards the end of the game and is part of a thrilling fight against a villainous treasure chest.
F-Zero and the Subtle Luigi Reference
As if the game wasn’t packed with enough surprises, players will come across a shopkeeper with an extraordinary collection of F-Zero vehicles, including one resembling a StarFox Arwing. And while Luigi may not make a proper appearance, he does exist in the world of Super Mario RPG in a rather subtle way. Mario can be seen rudely reading Luigi’s secret wish on Star Hill, confirming his presence in the game.
The Super Mario RPG remake is an absolute treat for fans of the original game and Nintendo enthusiasts. These nostalgic cameos serve as a wonderful reminder of the bond between various Nintendo franchises. Don’t miss the chance to explore and rediscover these hidden gems!
Follow the link below to read Game Informer’s comprehensive Super Mario RPG remake review and discover more secrets, including how to access one of the game’s most elusive bosses.