During a recent behind-closed-doors Toy Fair demo in New York City, a standout demo captured attention: Nintendo’s free Hello Mario app. Launching in the US on February 19 via the App Store and Google Play, with Japan availability following soon after, this simple yet captivating app also runs on the Nintendo Switch 2. It perfectly captures Mario’s playful spirit through interactive face manipulation that keeps users hooked.
Interactive Gameplay in Hello Mario
The app opens with Mario’s face on a blue background. Users grab and stretch any part—extend his iconic mustache with one finger or distort the entire face with two. Spinning his head like a top builds momentum; releasing it sends Mario bouncing across the screen, earning points that turn into gold coins.
Tapping reveals familiar elements like green pipes, Blooper the squid enemy, or Toad. Mario’s eyes track Toad’s movements, and dropping him on Mario’s nose enlarges the plumber’s features. These mechanics deliver endless entertainment for young children without overwhelming complexity.
Built-In Parental Controls
Designed for kids, Hello Mario includes screentime limits. When playtime ends, Mario covers his face and pauses interactions until the app restarts. Even adults find it hard to put down, proving its broad appeal.
Companion Super Mario Toys and Merch
The demo showcased toys targeting toddlers, including Fisher-Price Little People sets mimicking Mario’s platforming worlds with characters, green pipes, and sound-activated buttons featuring classic tunes. Another set recreates Super Mario 3’s Treasure Ship with a functional catapult.
Adorable onesies, bath toys, and a board book round out the lineup, all arriving ahead of the Super Mario Galaxy movie hitting theaters on April 1, 2026. Pricing details for these items remain unannounced.
