design of the Metro Kingdom in Super Mario Odyssey
What inspired the design of the Metro Kingdom in Super Mario Odyssey? The Metro Kingdom stands out as one of the most visually striking and unique kingdoms in the game, and its design is heavily influenced by urban environments, particularly large, bustling cities. Its structure and atmosphere reflect the vibrancy, energy, and diversity found in iconic metropolitan areas, blending elements of real-world cities with the signature whimsical and fantastical style that defines the Mario series. This design choice sets the Metro Kingdom apart from many of the other more natural or fantastical kingdoms in Super Mario Odyssey, and the inspiration behind its creation offers fascinating insight into the creative process of the developers.
The Metro Kingdom is clearly inspired by cities like New York, with its towering skyscrapers, busy streets, and the constant hum of urban life. The kingdom is set in a large, modern city where the hustle and bustle of everyday life contrasts sharply with the more traditional settings found in other parts of the game. The architecture is sleek and contemporary, with tall buildings, neon signs, and subway stations. The developers of Super Mario Odyssey aimed to create a location that felt alive and bustling, capturing the essence of a city that never sleeps. The bright lights and modern feel give the Metro Kingdom a distinct identity, marking it as a place where Mario must navigate both the physical challenges of the urban environment and the quirky hazards that are typical of the Mario series.
The visual aesthetic of the Metro Kingdom also draws inspiration from the classic trope of a “city in the clouds,” an idea often seen in both real-world and fictional depictions of metropolitan cities. The kingdom’s skyline is dotted with massive buildings that seem to reach into the sky, and there are various rooftop areas that Mario can explore. These rooftops provide a unique platforming challenge, where players can leap between buildings and navigate narrow ledges in true Mario fashion. The high-rise nature of the kingdom reflects the ambition and grandeur of a major metropolitan area, blending realism with the playful nature of the Mario universe.
What inspired the design of the Metro Kingdom in Super Mario Odyssey?
The inspiration behind the Metro Kingdom’s design also extends to its characters and inhabitants. The citizens of this kingdom, the “New Donk City” residents, are modeled after humans, which is a notable departure from the usual anthropomorphic animals and creatures that populate the Mario worlds. The characters have a distinctly urban, human-like look, and they interact with Mario in a way that is reminiscent of real-world city life. One of the most memorable characters is Pauline, the mayor of New Donk City, who is not only a nod to her original appearance in Donkey Kong but also represents the city’s sense of community and leadership.
Additionally, the Metro Kingdom’s music draws inspiration from jazz and big band sounds, adding to the sense of a vibrant, metropolitan atmosphere. The music plays a vital role in setting the tone for the city, as it underscores the fast-paced, dynamic environment in which Mario must navigate. The use of live instruments, such as brass and percussion, evokes the energy of a busy urban setting, with themes of optimism and excitement that mirror the lively spirit of a city that never slows down.
In conclusion, the design of the Metro Kingdom in Super Mario Odyssey was inspired by real-world urban environments, particularly large, lively cities like New York. Its architecture, characters, and music all contribute to creating a vibrant, metropolitan atmosphere that is both familiar and whimsical. By drawing on the energy and diversity of major cities, the developers of Super Mario Odyssey were able to craft a kingdom that feels fresh and unique within the Mario series, offering players a distinctly modern and urban experience.
