Mario shot to stardom as a flat sprite hopping and bopping his way through side-scrolling 2D levels. Only later did he leave the two-dimensional platform realm behind to lead the charge into console 3D action/adventure gaming with Mario 64.
Since then, with the exception of some retro titles and GameBoy ports, Mario and brother Luigi have led the swashbuckling lives of 3D adventure characters, exploring imaginary lands and taking on daring missions.
