Super Mario 40th is Celebrated by Nintendo
CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT
9/22/2025
A1–A2 Level
Vocabulary
Plumber – a person who fixes water pipes and bathrooms.
The plumber fixed the kitchen sink yesterday.Anniversary – the date when something special happened.
They had a party for their wedding anniversary.Arcade – a place with machines where you can play games.
We went to the arcade to play racing games.Characters – people or animals in a game, movie, or book.
My favorite characters in the film were the superheroes.Stand out – to look special or different.
Her red dress made her stand out at the party.
Text
In 2025, Nintendo is happy because Mario, the famous plumber, is 40 years old.
Mario first appeared in a game called Donkey Kong in 1981. Later, in 1985, the first Super Mario Bros. game was released.
Mario is always with his brother Luigi and other fun characters.
Nintendo is also making a new Mario movie, which will come out in 2026. Many fans are excited.
Text Comprehension Questions
How old is Mario in 2025?
What was Mario’s first game?
When will the new Mario movie come out?
Personal Questions (15)
Do you like video games?
Have you ever played Mario?
What is your favorite game?
Do you know Luigi?
Do you like movies about games?
Do you play games on your phone?
Do you like arcade games?
Do you know any other Nintendo characters?
Would you like to watch the new Mario movie?
Do you celebrate birthdays or anniversaries?
Do you like playing with friends?
Which is better, games or movies?
Do you think Mario is funny?
Do you play games often?
Who is your favorite game character?
Text Comprehension Answers
40 years old.
Donkey Kong in 1981.
In 2026.
B1–B2 Level
Vocabulary
Edition – a special version of a book, game, or album.
The new edition of the game has better graphics.Remastered – improved with new technology.
The old movie was remastered for modern screens.Global star – someone or something famous around the world.
The singer became a global star after her first hit.Costume – clothes worn to represent a character.
The clown’s colorful costume made the children laugh.Release – to make a product or film available to the public.
The new phone will release next month.
Text
In 2025, Nintendo is celebrating the 40th anniversary of Super Mario. The character first appeared in Donkey Kong in 1981 but became famous with the release of Super Mario Bros. in 1985.
Mario has appeared in countless games, often with his brother Luigi and other well-loved characters. Originally designed to be simple, his red-and-blue costume helped him stand out.
Nintendo has announced that a new Mario movie will be released in 2026. The company will also release remastered versions of the Super Mario Galaxy games, along with a new Mario Tennis title.
Text Comprehension Questions
When did Super Mario Bros. first come out?
Why did Mario have a simple design?
What new Mario content will Nintendo release in 2026?
Personal Questions (15)
What was the first video game you played?
Do you think simple characters are better than complex ones?
Why do you think Mario has stayed popular for so long?
Do you prefer playing games alone or with others?
Which do you enjoy more: movies or games?
Have you ever played a remastered version of a game?
Do you usually buy new editions of games?
Which character in Mario games do you like most?
Do you think Nintendo will always be popular?
If you could design a game, what would it be about?
Do you think movies based on games are good?
What makes a game character stand out?
Do you enjoy classic games or modern ones more?
Have you ever gone to an arcade?
Would you like to work in gaming in the future?
Text Comprehension Answers
In 1985.
Because designers wanted a character that stood out.
A new Mario movie and remastered games.
C1–C2 Level
Vocabulary
Franchise – a series of related films, games, or products.
The Mario franchise has lasted for decades.Cultural icon – a symbol recognized by many people in society.
The Eiffel Tower is a cultural icon of France.Innovation – a new idea or method that changes things.
The company is known for its innovation in technology.Legacy – something handed down from the past.
Shakespeare’s legacy continues to influence writers today.Revenue – money earned by a business.
The film generated high revenue in its first week.
Text
Nintendo is celebrating four decades of Super Mario, one of the most enduring figures in gaming history. First appearing in Donkey Kong (1981) before gaining recognition in Super Mario Bros. (1985), Mario has grown into a global franchise that spans video games, films, and merchandise.
Designed with simplicity—a cap, overalls, and bright colors—Mario quickly became a cultural icon. His presence is not just about entertainment but about the innovation and creativity that Nintendo has continuously offered.
In 2026, a new Mario film is set to release, following the billion-dollar success of the previous movie. Nintendo also plans to remaster classic titles and launch new ones, ensuring the franchise’s legacy continues to shape the gaming industry and generate remarkable revenue.
Text Comprehension Questions
What aspects made Mario a cultural icon?
How does Nintendo plan to keep Mario’s legacy alive?
Why is the Mario franchise considered innovative?
Personal Questions (15)
How do you define a cultural icon?
Do you think Mario deserves his status as one?
What other characters have shaped global culture?
How important is nostalgia in the gaming industry?
Do you think remasters are more about money or preserving history?
How does innovation affect the success of a franchise?
What legacies from your childhood still influence you today?
Can a video game character impact society in the same way as a book or film character?
How do you think Nintendo balances tradition and innovation?
Do you believe gaming franchises will last another 40 years?
What role does revenue play in creative decisions?
Should companies prioritize cultural impact over financial success?
How has gaming changed your view of technology?
What lessons can businesses learn from Nintendo’s success?
Do you think Mario’s legacy will outlast future trends?
Text Comprehension Answers
His simple, memorable design and wide cultural impact.
By releasing new films and remastered games.
Because it introduced creative ideas and influenced gaming worldwide.
