Steve Bagley, a dedicated superfan from Staffordshire, has spent many, many thousands of dollars on his extensive collection of Mario memorabilia. With a passion ignited by the release of Super Mario Bros in 1985, when he was just five years old, Bagley reflects on the enduring legacy of this beloved video game character. Now, nearly 40 years later, he boasts one of the most comprehensive collections of Mario-related items in the world, totaling almost 500 games.
Mario's journey began in 1981 with his debut in the arcade game Donkey Kong, where he was initially known as "Jumpman." However, it was the launch of Super Mario Bros in September 1985, featuring his brother Luigi, that truly cemented his status in the video game industry. "My parents bought me my first console—the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES)—to play the game on," Bagley recounts. Today, he finds joy in sharing this iconic character with his own child, noting, "I'm playing Mario Kart at the moment with my son." This generational connection highlights the timeless appeal of Mario in modern gaming.
As an NHS worker, Bagley's love for Mario extends beyond personal enjoyment. He has created a website called Mario Museum, dedicated to celebrating the character and his games. Engaging with fellow collectors on social media and exploring the various regional variations and exclusives of Mario games from around the world adds to his excitement. Bagley is particularly fascinated by the obscure titles from the 1980s, which are rare collectibles, even in Japan.
His collection isn't limited to games alone; it also includes all the consoles released over the years, antique playing cards from Nintendo's early days as a playing card manufacturer, and even the signature of Mario's creator. "It's more than just nostalgia; it's going from strength to strength, and I think it has a big part to play in social history," he states, emphasizing the cultural significance of Mario.
To commemorate the 40th anniversary of Super Mario Bros, Bagley has embarked on a special project, counting down 40 different Mario game formats over 40 days on his social media platforms. Additionally, he plans to showcase his entire collection online for the first time in over 30 years. "This should be really exciting for Nintendo fans," he adds with enthusiasm.
For those interested in the world of Mario, following Bagley's journey on platforms like BBC Sounds, Facebook, X, and Instagram will provide a deeper insight into the rich history and ongoing legacy of this beloved character.
