Nintendo is set to redefine family entertainment with a groundbreaking initiative: the free Hello, Mario! app and an expansive new product line called “My Mario.” This strategic launch aims to introduce the iconic Mario universe to a new generation of fans. Designed for young children and their parents, these offerings promise interactive play, imaginative learning, and a fresh way to connect with the beloved Super Mario character. Launching in Japan on August 26, 2025, this comprehensive collection marks a significant step in Nintendo’s ongoing mission to extend Mario’s global appeal beyond traditional gaming.
Step into the Fun: The Hello, Mario! App Experience
The highlight of Nintendo’s new digital venture is the highly anticipated Hello, Mario! app. This innovative, free-to-download application will be available on iOS (requiring iOS 15 or later), Android (requiring Android 6.0 or later), and even the Nintendo Switch console. Its core design harkens back to a beloved feature from the classic Super Mario 64: an interactive 3D rendition of Mario’s head.
In the Hello, Mario! app, children can engage directly with a smiling, expressive Mario face. Players can poke, tug, and even fling Mario’s face across the screen. Mario reacts dynamically to these actions, offering a variety of humorous and engaging expressions. This simple yet captivating interaction is crafted to foster shared play, allowing parents and young children to enjoy the reactions together. Unlike some other free Nintendo apps that feature in-app purchases or require subscriptions (like Nintendo Music’s need for Nintendo Switch Online), the Hello, Mario! app provides a comparatively basic yet entirely free experience, focusing purely on accessible, joyful interaction.
Introducing the “My Mario” Collection: Beyond the Screen
Complementing the digital fun of the Hello, Mario! app is the “My Mario” product line. This diverse collection is specifically curated for young children and toddlers, offering a tangible connection to the Mario world. The range includes plush toys, toddler-safe dinnerware, teething toys, and themed clothing, all designed with safety and engagement in mind. An interactive board book, also titled “Hello, Mario!”, further enhances the collection, allowing for tactile engagement with Mario’s face through physical manipulation.
The Innovation of My Mario Wooden Block Sets
Among the most exciting additions to the “My Mario” collection are the new wooden building block sets. These aren’t just ordinary toys; they represent a smart fusion of traditional play and modern technology. Nintendo is releasing two distinct sets:
The 3-Piece Set: Priced at ¥2,980 (approximately $20 USD), this introductory set features iconic elements like Mario, a mushroom, and a question block.
The 30-Piece Set: For ¥19,980 (approximately $135 USD), this larger, more comprehensive set expands the fun. It includes additional beloved characters such as Luigi, Princess Peach, and Yoshi, alongside other classic building elements like a warp pipe.
What truly sets these wooden blocks apart is their innovative dual functionality. Each character block within these sets is equipped with integrated Amiibo functionality. This means these charming wooden figures can double as functional Amiibo figures for the Nintendo Switch. Parents can use these blocks in compatible games, unlocking features or characters, effectively replacing their standard plastic Amiibo figures. This unique feature bridges the gap between physical play and digital interaction, offering exceptional value for families.
“It’s Me, Mario!” Stop Motion Shorts & Interactive Board Book
Beyond the app and physical toys, the “My Mario” initiative extends to new visual content. Nintendo will release a series of short, stop-motion videos titled “It’s Me, Mario! Stop Motion Shorts.” Each video will be approximately one minute in length, perfect for young attention spans, and will showcase Mario expressing a variety of emotions and movements. These entertaining shorts will be freely accessible on the official “My Mario” website and other distribution channels.
The “Hello, Mario!” Board Book, published by Shogakukan and retailing for 1,870 yen, offers another interactive dimension. Designed for shared reading experiences, the book incorporates tactile elements. Children can physically manipulate parts of the book, perhaps opening Mario’s mouth or turning his face, encouraging active engagement beyond static reading. This book will be available through local bookstores, making it easily accessible.
Nintendo’s Vision: Mario as a Global Entertainment Icon
The launch of the Hello, Mario! app and “My Mario” collection is more than just a product release; it’s a testament to Nintendo’s long-term strategic vision. This initiative precedes Mario’s 40th anniversary celebrations, set to begin in September, highlighting Nintendo’s proactive approach to brand longevity. Mario creator Shigeru Miyamoto has long articulated a plan to expand Mario’s presence into diverse product lines. His ambition is to position Mario as a global entertainment icon, on par with characters like Disney’s Mickey Mouse.
This comprehensive “My Mario” ecosystem underscores Nintendo’s commitment to broadening the appeal of its flagship character. By introducing interactive experiences, high-quality physical products, and engaging visual content, Nintendo aims to foster engagement with new, younger audiences. The emphasis on shared play between parents and children aligns with a family-centric brand philosophy, ensuring Mario remains a beloved figure for generations to come.
Availability and Future Plans
The initial launch of the Hello, Mario! app and the “My Mario” collection is scheduled for August 26, 2025. Products will first become available in Nintendo’s official Japanese stores located in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. While an English version of the Hello, Mario! app has not yet been confirmed, Nintendo has indicated plans for a broader international release for select “My Mario” products. This global rollout is anticipated to commence in early 2026, making these exciting new offerings accessible to families worldwide. Nintendo has also hinted at future expansions to the “My Mario” series, with additional items such as apparel and plush toys planned for development, ensuring the collection continues to grow and evolve.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the “Hello, Mario!” app and what can children do with it?
The Hello, Mario! app is a new, free mobile application from Nintendo available on iOS, Android, and Nintendo Switch. It allows young children to interact directly with a 3D, smiling rendition of Mario’s face on screen. Users can poke, tug, or fling Mario’s face, and the character will react dynamically with various expressions. It’s designed for simple, engaging play, often enjoyed collaboratively by parents and children, reminiscent of the interactive Mario head from Super Mario 64.
Where and when will the “My Mario” product collection be available?
The “My Mario” product collection, including the wooden block sets, interactive board book, and other merchandise, will first launch in Nintendo’s Japanese stores in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto on August 26, 2025, the same day as the Hello, Mario! app release. While an English version of the app is unconfirmed, select “My Mario” products are expected to see a broader international release starting in early 2026.
What makes the “My Mario” wooden block sets unique for Nintendo Switch owners?
The “My Mario” wooden block sets are unique because their character blocks feature integrated Amiibo functionality. This means that the wooden figures of characters like Mario, Luigi, Peach, and Yoshi can also function as Amiibo figures. Nintendo Switch owners can use these blocks in compatible games to unlock features or characters, effectively replacing the need for standard plastic Amiibo figures and offering a novel blend of physical play and digital interaction.
