Platform: Game Boy Color
Released: 2001
Developer: Natsume
Genre: Sewing
The very first Mario spin-off game we covered was Super Mario Sweater. Well, this one is similar, only a lot more interesting. Mario Family is not a game, but rather a cartridge that allowed you to see your favorite Nintendo characters stitched onto something. The game was made specifically to be compatible with Jaguar's JN-100 sewing machine. So, if you wanted this game, you had to get the sewing machine too! Of course, this was only available in Japan.
The cartridge has 32 patterns stored in it. Players can also alter the colors of the patterns with a number of alternate palettes. The patterns include Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Yoshi, Boo, Wario, Koopa Troopa, among others. Users would couple their handheld to the JN-100, insert the cartridge and then, by "playing" it, could access dozens of Nintendo designs which the sewing machine would then replicate on material. Imagine if this had taken off! We might have Super Mario sewing machines here in the West today. Here's a picture of this crazy thing.
Wow, that's really weird but also kind of awesome. I want my own stitched Mario stuff!
I know, that'd be so great! But I guess this will never happen over here.
I never heard of this game, but the National Videogame Museum, which opens up near where I live soon, has one of those as an exhibit.
Neat. I bet you're gonna check out the museum, right? I know I definitely would!
Oh I'm planning to volunteer and even apply for any opening jobs at the museum! So please wish me luck and keep me in your thoughts and prayers on that venture.
Sure will!
So much Japan.
Actually, they have sewing machines all over the world. lol jk
Call it Roberta, the Robo Seamstress.
Is that a reference to something?
R.O.B. or Rob the Robot.