The Toys That Built America Season 2 Episode 8 Plumber Bros vs. Hedgehog

In this episode of The Toys That Built America season 2, titled Plumber Bros vs. Hedgehog, we delve into the competition between two iconic video game franchises: Super Mario Bros. and Sonic the Hedgehog.

Both franchises revolutionized the gaming world in the 1990s, with Super Mario Bros. launching in 1985 and Sonic the Hedgehog dominating in 1991. The episode takes viewers on a journey through the development and marketing strategies of both franchises, as well as the impact they had on the gaming industry as a whole.

We start by looking at the early days of Nintendo and their creation of the first home console, the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). The original Super Mario Bros. game quickly became a cornerstone of the system and Nintendo's success, with its combination of side-scrolling action and puzzle-solving gameplay. But with the rise of Sega and their Genesis console, Nintendo faced some tough competition in the video game market.

Enter Sonic the Hedgehog, a blue, speedy character created by Yuji Naka and his team at Sega. With his cool attitude and hip design, Sonic quickly became a fan favorite and a direct rival to Mario. The episode explores how Sega's marketing strategy of portraying Sonic as the edgier, cooler option appealed to a new generation of gamers.

But it wasn't just about design and marketing tactics - the episode also looks at the technological advancements behind the games. Both franchises pushed the boundaries of what was possible in terms of graphics, sound, and gameplay mechanics. We see how Sonic's unique gameplay style of fast-paced, action-packed levels challenged Mario's more strategic, puzzle-solving approach.

The episode also touches on the impact of Super Mario Bros. and Sonic the Hedgehog on the wider culture. Both franchises spawned movies, TV shows, comic books, and merchandise, creating a huge wave of nostalgia and fan loyalty that still exists today.

The episode ends with a look at how both franchises have evolved over the years. While Mario has continued to dominate the market with successful releases on new consoles and expansion into new genres, Sonic has struggled at times to stay relevant. We see how both franchises have had to adapt and respond to changes in the gaming industry, from the rise of mobile gaming to the emergence of augmented reality.

Overall, Plumber Bros vs. Hedgehog is a fascinating exploration of two of the most iconic video game franchises in history. Through interviews with industry experts, archival footage, and a deep dive into the games themselves, viewers will gain a newfound appreciation for the impact these two franchises have had on the gaming world and beyond.