14 Video Game Franchises That Will Never Die
4. Mario
Like Zelda, it's almost impossible to imagine what video games would look like today were it not for everyone's favourite Italian plumber. Nintendo's flagship property, Super Mario has been everywhere and done everything; he's made the jump from 2D to 3D, he's been the star of numerous sports and party games, and he's even travelled to outer space.
No matter how dire the video games industry has gotten, Mario has always been a reassuring presence, crushing Goombas into dirt and foiling Bowser's insidious kidnapping attempts.
Not only has Mario been incredibly influential over the years, but his games continue to set the standard for both 2D and 3D platforming. To this day, if you're ever in need of some solid, inoffensive fun for all the family, Mario is the go-to-guy; his games are always colourful and charming, and there's a certain level of quality that can always be counted on.