Which Nintendo 3DS Model Celebrated Mario 30th Anniversary

This article identifies the specific Nintendo 3DS hardware released to honor Mario’s 30th anniversary. It details the design features of the New Nintendo 3DS Super Mario Edition, explains its release window in 2015, and discusses why this console remains a sought-after collectible for fans of the iconic plumber.

The Super Mario Edition Hardware

To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Super Mario franchise, Nintendo released special edition consoles in late 2015. The primary model associated with this celebration was the New Nintendo 3DS Super Mario Edition. Alongside this unit, a Nintendo 3DS XL Super Mario Edition was also made available. Both systems were designed to highlight the legacy of the character who debuted in 1985 with Super Mario Bros. on the Nintendo Entertainment System.

Design and Aesthetic Features

The New Nintendo 3DS Super Mario Edition featured a distinct white faceplate adorned with gold symbols recognizable to fans of the series. These icons included the Super Mushroom, Starman, Coin, and Fire Flower. The system’s buttons were finished in gold, and the analog stick cap matched the metallic theme. The Nintendo 3DS XL version utilized a vibrant red color scheme with similar gold accents and Mario-themed imagery on the cover. Both models included downloadable software pre-installed, often featuring classic titles or themes related to the anniversary.

Release and Collectibility

These special edition consoles were released globally in November 2015. They were produced in limited quantities, which has since increased their value among collectors. The hardware modifications in the New Nintendo 3DS model, such as the added C-Stick and ZL/ZR buttons, made this special edition particularly desirable compared to the original 3DS XL version. Today, finding either model in mint condition with original packaging is a priority for serious Nintendo archivists and Mario enthusiasts.

Legacy of the Anniversary Console

The release of the Super Mario Edition 3DS models served as a bridge between classic gaming history and handheld technology. It marked a significant milestone for Nintendo, connecting the era of the NES with the modern 3D capabilities of the 3DS family. While the 3DS platform has since been succeeded by the Nintendo Switch, these anniversary units remain a tangible piece of gaming history commemorating three decades of Mario.