Are you jumping over the internet in your search for the perfect Tattoo Design? Well, worry no longer. We’re about to 1-up your search as we bring to you the most ‘Super’ Mario Tattoos that the internet has to offer.
What Is Super Mario
Super Mario is a franchise created by Shigeru Miyamoto. The character had initially appeared as a carpenter in the first Donkey Kong game under the name ‘Jumpman.’
Miyamoto would change Mario’s profession into a plumber and set him in the fantasy world of ‘The Mushroom Kingdom’ in a brand new Nintendo franchise, ‘Super Mario Bros.’
Following the massive success of his first title, Mario’s popularity exploded, resulting in Mario becoming a pop culture icon recognized by children even more than Disney’s Mickey Mouse.
Since his inception, Mario has appeared in over 200 Video Games, including mainline titles, spin-offs, and cameo appearances across various genres and platforms.
Best Super Mario Tattoo Designs
Now that we know a little about Super Mario, let’s take a look at some of the best Super Mario Tattoos the internet has to offer.
Paper Mario Tattoo
Paper Mario is a role-playing game (RPG) in the Mario franchise, where all the characters have a paper cutout aesthetic. The game is known for its charming storylines, witty dialogue, turn-based combat, and puzzle-solving elements.
Paper Mario has six titles to its name: Paper Mario, Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door, Super Paper Mario, Paper Mario: Sticker Star, Paper Mario: Colour Splash, and Paper Mario: The Origami King.
King Boo Super Mario Tattoo
King of the Boo’s (who would have thought), King Boo was introduced in Luigi’s Mansion as the main antagonist and nemesis to Luigi.
After freeing all the portrait ghosts from Professor E. Gadd, King Boo creates a haunted mansion near E. Gadd’s lab.
After capturing Mario and imprisoning him in a portrait, it is up to Luigi to save his brother with the help of the professor and capture all the ghosts with the aid of the Poltergust device.
Super Mario Sprite Tattoo
This Super Mario Tattoo is of the original Super Mario sprite from the 1985 game Super Mario Bros.
In the game, the Mushroom Kingdom has been invaded, with the Princess Toadstool captured by the villainous Bowser.
Mario must set out to defeat the minions of Bowser and rescue the princess, who is often out of reach, being kept in a different castle from the one Mario just conquered (of course…).
Bowser Super Mario Tattoo
@whisperstattoo
Bowser is the King of the Koopas and arch-nemesis to Mario.
Bowser is arrogant, short-tempered, and loves to boast, often capturing Princess Peachin in an attempt to get her to marry him.
However, in some games, Bowser teams up with Mario and others to fight a greater evil, showing his sense of honour and loyalty to his kingdom.
Shy Guy Super Mario Tattoo
Initially not a Super Mario character, the Shy Guy enemy type first appeared in the video game Yume Kōjō: Doki Doki Panic, a game which was later reskinned into Super Mario Bros 2.
Shy Guys are recurring enemies in the Mario series, known for their trademark masks and timid demeanour.
It is still unknown what lies beneath their masks, with some theorizing that it is simply because they’re extremely shy creatures, to their faces being too terrifying or unusual to show.
My favourite Shy Guy has always been the dancing tribe Shy Guy variant from Yoshi’s Island.
? Block Super Mario Tattoo
@jun._.tattoo
One of the most iconic and recognizable images from the Super Mario franchise, this Super Mario Tattoo is of the Question Block or ‘? Block’ to some.
The Question Block contains items within that aid Mario on his journey. These items can include power-ups, coins, 1-ups, or other items specific to certain games.
But did you know that in the original Super Mario Game, Bowser transformed the Kingdom’s inhabitants into these very same blocks with his dark magic?
Bob-omb Super Mario Tattoo
Bob-ombs are walking bomb-like enemies that explode after a short time or upon being attacked.
These enemies are probably most well-known thanks to Bob-omb Battlefield, the first level in Super Mario 64, a level which contained the game’s first boss, King Bob-omb, at the summit of its mountain.
Goomba Super Mario Tattoo
Possibly the most iconic Mario enemy type, Goombas were the first enemies ever encountered in the Super Mario franchise.
Goombas are the most basic Mario enemy, designed to teach the player the jump and movement controls of the series.
According to early game lore, Goombas were once allies of the Mushroom Kingdom.
They betrayed the kingdom and joined Bowser’s forces, making them one of the few species to switch sides.
Geno Super Mario Tattoo
Not actually a doll but rather a celestial spirit from the Star Road, Geno inhabited a doll’s body after Smithy and his minions shatter the Star Road, preventing wishes from being granted.
Geno is wise, serious, and focused on his mission, contrasting the more lighthearted characters like Mario, Mallow, and Bowser.
Luigi Super Mario Tattoo
Brother of Mario, Luigi started as a simple palette swap of Mario, however, he has since grown into a unique character with his own personality and adventures.
Luigi is often depicted as timid, cautious, and even scared, but he’s also incredibly loyal, kind, and brave when the situation demands it.
The name Luigi was inspired by a pizza parlour near Nintendo of America’s offices called “Mario & Luigi’s.”
It also resembles the Japanese word ruiji (類似), meaning “similar,” reflecting his early role as Mario’s counterpart.
Wario Tattoo
First appearing in Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins (1992) for the Game Boy, Wario is Mario’s rival and counterpart, known for his greed, strength, and mischievous nature.
The name Wario combines “Mario” with the Japanese word warui (悪い), meaning “bad,” reflecting his role as Mario’s villainous foil.
Wario was created to serve as a villain for Mario but quickly became popular enough to star in his own games.
Cheep Cheep Super Mario Tattoo
This Fish Tattoo is of a Cheep Cheep from the Mario franchise. Cheep Cheep are fish-like enemies that inhabit underwater levels and often swim in predictable patterns or jump out of the water. “Cheep Cheep” is likely derived from the sound of a chirping bird or squeaky toy, matching their cartoony aesthetic.
Super Mario Power-ups Tattoo
Another iconic element of the Mario franchise, power-ups grant special abilities to help navigate levels, defeat enemies, or access secret areas throughout the Mario franchise.
Some of the most iconic power-ups include the Super Mushroom, allowing the player to grow in size and take an extra hit; the Fire Flower, allowing you to shoot fire; the Super Star, making you invincible for a short time; and the 1-up Mushroom adding an additional life.
Mario Kart Tattoo
Mario Kart is a series of go-kart-style racing games featuring characters from the Mario universe.
The game was initially conceived as a spin-off of F-Zero, another Nintendo racing game.
However, unlike F-Zero, which focused on high-speed futuristic racing, Mario Kart aimed for multiplayer fun and whimsical mechanics.
Waluigi Tattoo
Waluigi is Wario’s partner-in-crime and Luigi’s rival.
Though primarily known for his appearances in spin-off games, Waluigi has developed a cult following due to his eccentric personality and over-the-top antics.
“Waluigi” combines “Luigi” with the Japanese word warui (悪い), meaning “bad” or “evil,” similar to how Wario’s name is derived from “warui Mario.”
Black Dog Tattoo
A slightly deeper Mario Universe reference, the Black Dog is one of the nine items that can be purchased from the Item Shop in Wario Land 4.
When purchased, the shop owner will enter the boss room with Wario.
The owner will then transform into the Black Dog and bite down on whichever boss you challenge before leaving the rest to Wario.
Mr. L Tattoo
Mr. L is an alternate, brainwashed persona of Luigi, created when Luigi is captured and manipulated by the villainous Count Bleck and his minion, Nastasia.
Mr. L is a brash and arrogant character, often referring to himself in grandiose terms like the “Green Thunder.”
He views himself as superior to everyone, even mocking Mario and his allies.
Despite his bravado, Mr. L’s plans and strategies often fail spectacularly.
Princess Peach Tattoo
Queen of the Mushroom Kingdom, Princess Peach, is known for her gentle and compassionate nature, always putting her kingdom’s welfare above her own.
In Japan, she was always known as Princess Peach.
However, in Western releases, she was initially called Princess Toadstool until the late 1990s, when her Japanese name became standard worldwide.
Princess Daisy Tattoo
Daisy is the ruler of Sarasaland, a neighboring kingdom to the Mushroom Kingdom.
Though initially portrayed as a damsel-in-distress, Daisy has since become a regular character in Mario spin-off games.
Daisy first appears in Super Mario Land for the Gameboy, where Mario rescues her from the alien villain Tatanga.
Mario Sunshine Tattoo
Super Mario Sunshine is the second 3D Mario platformer, following Super Mario 64.
During their vacation to the tropical paradise of Isle Delfino, the Mario crew’s plans are interrupted when Mario is wrongfully accused of vandalizing the island with graffiti, which has polluted the environment and stolen its sunlight.
To clear his name and restore the island’s beauty, Mario must clean up the mess, collect Shine Sprites, and uncover the truth behind who is vandalizing the resort.
Vivian Super Mario Tattoo
Vivian is a character from Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door.
She is a ghost-like being and a former member of the villainous Shadow Sirens who eventually joins Mario’s party as a key ally.
Being mistreated and bullied by her eldest sister, Beldam, she begins questioning her loyalty to the Shadow Sirens.
After Mario shows her kindness, she defects from the group and joins his quest to stop Grodus and collect the Crystal Stars.
Nabbit Super Mario Tattoo
Nabbit is a sneaky, purple rabbit-like thief who steals items from Toad Houses and runs away.
Initially introduced as a gameplay mechanic who you can chase to reclaim the stolen items.
Nabbit would go on to become a playable character whose immunity to damage made him ideal for beginner players.
Yoshi Mario Tattoo
Yoshi is a bipedal dinosaur ally to Mario, who uses his long tongue to grab enemies, items, or fruits, often swallowing them for power-ups or converting them into eggs.
Yoshi first appeared in Super Mario World for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System and has since appeared in various other entries and even his own series.
Shigeru Miyamoto, the creator of Mario, had wanted Mario to ride a dinosaur since the original Super Mario Bros., but hardware limitations delayed Yoshi’s debut until Super Mario World.
Super Mario World Tattoo
Super Mario World is the fourth mainline Mario game and the launch title for the SNES.
It introduced many series-defining elements, such as Yoshi, a sprawling, interconnected world map, and expanded gameplay mechanics.
During the game, Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach travel to Dinosaur Land for a vacation. However, Bowser kidnaps Peach and takes her to his castle.
To rescue her, Mario and Luigi team up with the Yoshis to defeat Bowser’s Koopalings and save Princess Peach.
Toadette Tattoo
Toadette is a bubbly, optimistic, and energetic member of the Toad species often seen encouraging others or celebrating in her uniquely enthusiastic way.
Toadette first appeared in Mario Kart: Double Dash!! but has since appeared in and starred in multiple other games, including the Mario Party, Paper Mario, and New Super Mario Bros. series and Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker.
Chain Chomp Super Mario Tattoo
Chain Chomps are another iconic Super Mario character that first appeared in Super Mario Bros. 3.
Chain Chomps are ball-and-chain-like creatures that act as obstacles or enemies in many Mario games.
They are typically tied to a stake or block, limiting their movement, but they are known for their aggressive lunges and sharp teeth.
Rosalina Tattoo
Rosalina is the guardian of the cosmos and the motherly protector of the Lumas.
She assists Mario in his quest to save Princess Peach and defeat Bowser in the Super Mario Galaxy video game.
As a young girl, Rosalina discovered a stranded Luma and helped it search for its “Mama.”
Over time, she befriended more Lumas and built the Comet Observatory, which became her home and the Lumas’ sanctuary.
She realized her cosmic duty to care for the Lumas and protect the universe, taking on her role as the cosmic guardian.
Boshi Tattoo
Boshi first appears in Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars. He is a rival to Yoshi and a resident of Yo’ster Isle.
Boshi is the only Yoshi with a distinctly antagonistic role in the Mario series, making him stand out as a unique character.
In Japan, Boshi is known as “Washi,” which loosely translates to “I’m great” or “I’m the best.”
Lumas Super Mario Tattoo
Lumas are celestial creatures who assist Rosalina, serving as companions, helpers, and protectors of the cosmos.
Lumas can transform into various celestial objects, such as planets, stars, or galaxies.
Piranha Plant Super Mario Tattoo
Piranha Plants are recurring enemies that resemble carnivorous plants, typically popping out of pipes to surprise and attack Mario.
The Piranha Plant first appeared in Super Mario Bros. and since then has appeared in almost every Mario Title and several other franchises since.
Toad Super Mario Tattoo
Toad is both the name of the character and a species of character in the Mario franchise.
Toads come in different colours and roles throughout the series, with the red-spotted Toad being the most iconic who often represents the species as a whole.
The debate over whether Toad’s cap is part of his head or a hat was addressed by Nintendo, confirming it’s part of his head.
Blue Shell Super Mario Tattoo
This Super Mario Tattoo either fills you with dread or glee, mostly depending on what position you find yourself in during a race in the Mario Kart franchise.
The Blue Shell is possibly the most iconic item from Mario Kart used to hit the player in first position and slow their progress allowing you and the other competitors to catch up.
Bullet Bill Super Mario Tattoo
Bullet Bill serves both as an enemy type and also a power up in the Super Mario franchise of games.
Bullet Bills are fired from Bill Blasters and travel horizontally (or, in some cases, diagonally or vertically) across the screen, aiming to hit Mario or Luigi.
In Mario Kart, Bullet Bill is a power-up that transforms the player into a speeding Bullet Bill, automatically driving them along the track at high speed while knocking over opponents.
Super Mario Bros 3 Tattoo
Super Mario Bros. 3 is the third mainline Mario game and is often regarded as one of the greatest video games ever.
Bowser and his seven children, the Koopalings, have taken over the seven kingdoms of the Mushroom World.
Each Koopaling has stolen a magic wand and transformed the kings of their respective kingdoms into animals or other creatures.
Mario and Luigi set out to retrieve the wands, restore the kings to their original forms, and ultimately defeat Bowser, who has kidnapped Princess Peach yet again.
Mario Star Tattoo
The Stars have multiple uses in the Mario franchise.
Originally, they served as a power-up that makes Mario temporarily invincible, but changed to be the central collectable objective in Super Mario 64 and other 3D Mario games.
Cartridge Super Mario Tattoo
Nothing was more exciting as a child (and still as an adult) than unpacking the box of your brand-new Mario game and seeing the cartridge that holds the adventure that’s about to completely absorb your life.
This Super Mario Tattoo features the cartridge of New Super Mario Bros, released in 2006 for the Nintendo DS.
Dry Bones Super Mario Tattoo
Dry Bones is an undead, skeletal version of a Koopa Troopa that first appeared in Super Mario Bros. 3.
These reanimated skeleton turtles are often found in dark, spooky levels like castles, fortresses, and underground dungeons.
Mario 64 Tattoo
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Super Mario 64 is one of the most revolutionary and beloved games in video game history.
Mario 64 was the first fully 3D Mario game, pioneering 3D platforming and setting new standards for game design.
The story begins with Mario receiving an invitation from Princess Peach to visit her castle for a cake she baked.
However, upon arriving, Mario discovers that Bowser has invaded the castle, trapped Peach, and sealed the castle’s Power Stars within various magical paintings.
To rescue Princess Peach, Mario must explore Peach’s Castle, enter worlds through paintings, collect Power Stars, and defeat Bowser.
Doctor Mario Tattoo
Dr. Mario is a spin-off puzzle game where Mario is tasked with eliminating viruses using colourful capsules.
The game combines elements of Tetris-like falling block mechanics with strategy and quick thinking.
Irezumi Bowser Tattoo
This Super Mario Tattoo features Bowser in an Irezumi Style.
Irezumi Tattoos are rooted in Japan’s Edo period, where they evolved from decorative art to a form of body storytelling.
These tattoos are large and intricate, often covering the back, arms, legs, and sometimes the entire body.
Irezumi Tattoos are traditionally applied using the Tebori method, a hand-poked tattooing technique, though modern tools are also used today.
1-up Mushroom Tattoo
The 1-up Mushroom is another of the most iconic symbols from the Mario franchise.
The 1-Up Mushroom grants Mario or Luigi an extra life, helping players continue their journey even after losing a life.
Collecting a 1-Up Mushroom triggers a “1-Up” jingle, which has become one of the most recognizable sound effects in gaming history.
Koopa Clown Car Tattoo
The Koopa Clown Car debuted as Bowser’s personal vehicle in the final battle in Super Mario World.
Bowser is the primary pilot, using the Koopa Clown Car in final battles to float above Mario, dropping hazards and attacks.
Pokemon X Mario Tattoo
If you love Pokemon as well as the Mario franchise, why not get yourself a Mario and Pokemon Tattoo crossover? This Super Mario Tattoo Design features Mario riding into battle on Blastoise’s back.
Zelda X Mario Tattoo
Likewise, if you love Mario to have even more crossovers with other Nintendo franchises, check out this lovely Mario X Zelda Tattoo. This design features Link’s Master Sword placed inside one of Mario’s Question Blocks.
Dragon Ball X Mario Tattoo
Lastly, check out this amazing Mario X Dragonball Tattoo. This funny design features Mario going into the Saiyans’ famous Super Saiyan transformation.
Where To Get Your Super Mario Tattoo
Design is one thing, but you also need to carefully consider where you want to get your Super Mario Tattoo. So, let’s take a look at the best locations for your potential new ink.
Wrist Mario Tattoo
Wrist tattoos are a great choice for those who want their ink to be easily seen and admired.
However, the wrist can be extremely painful due to the wrist having very little skin and being close to the nerves and bones.
This wrist Super Mario Tattoo features a Lakitu, a type of Koopa that flies through the sky on a cloud.
Super Mario Tattoo On The Chest
The chest provides a broad area for detailed, intricate designs like portraits, script, or symmetrical art.
This area is easy to conceal with clothing if needed and is one of the least painful locations to get inked unless you get close to the collarbone or nipple line.
However, chest tattoos may be irritated by clothing, sleeping positions, or movement, slowing the healing process.
Back With Super Mario Tattoo
The back offers one of the largest tattoo spaces, perfect for elaborate designs like full-back pieces or detailed artwork.
This location is great for people who want stunning tattoos that can remain private or unseen.
The upper back is also a relatively low-pain area due to thick skin and muscle.
Keep in mind that back tattoos can be tricky to care for during healing since you can’t easily see or reach the area and need mirrors or photos to see it for yourself.
Super Mario Leg Tattoo
The leg offers versatility, from small ankle tattoos to full-leg sleeves.
The upper thigh has more muscle and fat, making it one of the less painful areas to tattoo.
Leg tattoos are easy to hide under pants or longer skirts, offering flexibility in professional environments.
Remember that areas with thin skin and bones, such as the shin, knee, or ankle, can be very painful.
Leg tattoos can take longer to heal due to movement, rubbing from clothing, and swelling.
Shoulder Super Mario Tattoo
The shoulder is perfect for designs that flow onto the upper arm, back, or chest and can be easily shown or covered when needed.
The thick skin and muscle make the shoulder one of the more tolerable tattoo spots.
Remember that constant shoulder movement can cause irritation during the healing process, and the natural curve of the shoulder can limit the placement of very large, straight designs.
Conclusion
Alas, we’ve finally reached the flagpole on our journey through the wonderful world of Super Mario Tattoos. We hope we’ve 1-upped your Tattoo Idea game, but hey, if Super Mario Tattoos still don’t inspire you, it isn’t Game Over just yet. Instead, why not check out more Video Game Tattoo Ideas, these Studio Ghibli Tattoo Designs, or these Cartoon Tattoos.
