View source for Bowser

{{Short description|Video game character}}
{{Redirect|Bowser (Nintendo)|the president of [[Nintendo of America]]|Doug Bowser|other uses|Bowser (disambiguation)}}
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{{Original research|date=April 2024}} 
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{{Use American English|date=April 2023}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=April 2023}}
{{Infobox character
| name = Bowser
| series = [[Mario (franchise)|Mario]]
| image = Bowser_by_Shigehisa_Nakaue.png
| caption = Promotional art by Shigehisa Nakaue (2019)
| firstgame = ''[[Super Mario Bros.]]'' (1985)
| creator = [[Shigeru Miyamoto]]
| designer = Shigeru Miyamoto<br/>[[Yōichi Kotabe]]
| lbl1 = Voiced by
| data1 = {{Collapsible list|title=Language-neutral
|Scott Burns (2002–2010)
|Kenny James (2005–present)
|Eric Newsome ([[Super Paper Mario|2007]])}}
{{Collapsible list|title=[[English language|English]]
|[[Harvey Atkin]] (''[[The Super Mario Bros. Super Show!]]'', ''[[The Adventures of Super Mario Bros. 3]]'' and ''[[Super Mario World (TV series)|Super Mario World]]'')
|Rob Wallace (''[[Mario Is Missing!]]'')<ref name="Mario Missing">{{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/video-games/Mario-Is-Missing/|title=Mario Is Missing!|website=Behind The Voice Actors|language=en-US|access-date=February 21, 2021|archive-date=February 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210206163854/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/video-games/Mario-Is-Missing/|url-status=live}}</ref>
|Marc Graue (''[[Hotel Mario]]'')<ref name="Hotel Mario">{{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/video-games/Hotel-Mario/|title=Hotel Mario|website=Behind The Voice Actors|language=en-US|access-date=February 21, 2021|archive-date=February 3, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210203080222/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/video-games/Hotel-Mario/|url-status=live}}</ref>
|Bruce Robertson (''[[Mario's Time Machine|Mario's Time Machine Deluxe]]'')<ref name="Time Machine">{{Cite web|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/video-games/Marios-Time-Machine-Deluxe/|title=Mario's Time Machine Deluxe|website=Behind The Voice Actors|language=en-US|access-date=February 21, 2021|archive-date=April 19, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190419152428/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/video-games/Marios-Time-Machine-Deluxe/|url-status=live}}</ref>
|[[Jack Black]] ([[The Super Mario Bros. Movie|2023 film]], [[The Super Mario Galaxy Movie|2026 film]])}}
{{Collapsible list|title=[[Japanese language|Japanese]]
|[[Akiko Wada]] (''[[Super Mario Bros.: The Great Mission to Rescue Princess Peach!]]'')
|[[Masaharu Satō]] (''[[Amada Anime Series: Super Mario Bros.]]'')
|[[Takeshi Watabe]] (''[[Super Mario World: Mario to Yoshi no Bōken Land|Super Mario World: Mario & Yoshi's Adventure Land]]'')<ref name="Bouken Land">Archived at [https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211211/wWj63t4lFlc Ghostarchive]{{cbignore}} and the [https://web.archive.org/web/20180603025847/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wWj63t4lFlc&gl=US&hl=en Wayback Machine]{{cbignore}}: {{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wWj63t4lFlc&t=157s|title=マリオとヨッシーの冒険ランド|date=January 2018 |publisher=YouTube|access-date=May 25, 2021}}{{cbignore}}</ref>
|[[Naoki Tatsuta]] (''BS Super Mario Collection'')
|[[Takanobu Hozumi]] (Japanese DVD dub of ''Super Mario Bros.'' film)
|[[Hiroshi Arikawa]] (Japanese Nippon TV dub of ''Super Mario Bros.'' film)
|[[Kenta Miyake]] (2023 film)<ref>{{Cite web |title=News Release : Nov. 30, 2022 "Illumination and Nintendo Announce Second Trailer and the Japanese voice cast for The Super Mario Bros. Movie" |url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/corporate/release/en/2022/221130.html |access-date=November 29, 2022 |website=Nintendo Co., Ltd. |language=en |archive-date=November 29, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221129224450/https://www.nintendo.co.jp/corporate/release/en/2022/221130.html |url-status=live }}</ref>}}
| motion_actor = 
| lbl2 = Portrayed by
| data2 = {{Collapsible list|title=Various|[[Christopher Collins]]/[[Patrick Pinney]] (''[[King Koopa's Kool Kartoons]]'')<br/>[[Christopher Hewett]] (''[[Ice Capades|Mario Ice Capades]]'')<br/>[[Dennis Hopper]] (''[[Super Mario Bros. (film)|Super Mario Bros.]]'')}}
| species = [[Koopa Troopa|Koopa]]
| children = [[Bowser Jr]]
}}

{{Nihongo|'''Bowser'''|クッパ|Kuppa|"Koopa"|lead=yes}}, also known as '''King Bowser''' or '''King Koopa''', is a [[Character (arts)|fictional character]] and the [[Antagonist|main antagonist]] of Nintendo's ''[[Mario (franchise)|Mario]]'' franchise.<ref name="IGNVillains">"The Top 100 Videogame Villains". IGN. Retrieved October 8, 2010.</ref> In Japan, he is titled {{Nihongo|Daimaō|大魔王||Great Demon King"}}.<ref name="CharacterIntro">"Character Introduction". Nintendo Japan. Retrieved October 18, 2009.</ref> He is the arch-nemesis of the plumber [[Mario]] and the leader of the turtle-like [[Koopa Troopa|Koopa]] race. Depicted as a fire-breathing monster with a tyrannical personality, Bowser's ultimate goals are to kidnap [[Princess Peach]] and conquer the [[Mushroom Kingdom]].<ref name="GameSpotVillains">Staff; designed by James Cheung (January 21, 2000). "TenSpot: Top Ten Video Game Villains". GameSpot. Retrieved December 31, 2008.</ref>

Bowser debuted as Mario's opponent in the 1985 video game ''[[Super Mario Bros.]]''<ref name="IGNHistory">McLaughlin, Rus (September 14, 2010). "IGN Presents: The History of Super Mario Bros". IGN. Retrieved October 11, 2021.</ref> Designer [[Shigeru Miyamoto]] initially conceived him as an ox based on the Ox-King from the Toei Animation film ''[[Alakazam the Great]]''.<ref name="IwataAsks1">"Iwata Asks: New Super Mario Bros. Wii – The Birth of Bowser". Nintendo. Retrieved August 23, 2010.</ref> However, [[Takashi Tezuka]] remarked that the character resembled a turtle more than an ox, leading them to redesign Bowser as the leader of the turtle-like Koopas.<ref name="Oxford">Oxford, David. "Iwata Asks: The Birth of Bowser". Ds.Kombo. Archived from the original on September 17, 2010. Retrieved August 23, 2010.</ref> Since 2007, Bowser has been voiced by Kenneth W. James.<ref name="BehindVoice">"Bowser Voice Actors". Behind The Voice Actors. Retrieved February 21, 2021.</ref>

Following ''Super Mario Bros.'', Bowser has appeared in various genres, including role-playing games like ''[[Paper Mario]]'' and ''[[Mario & Luigi]]'', sports games such as ''[[Mario Kart]]'' and ''[[Mario Tennis]]'', and fighting games like ''[[Super Smash Bros.]]''<ref name="GameAppearances">"Bowser Character Profile". GameSpot. Retrieved October 11, 2021.</ref> He has appeared in multiple animations, including three series produced by [[DIC Entertainment]] (voiced by [[Harvey Atkin]])<ref name="IMDb">"Harvey Atkin Filmography". IMDb. Retrieved October 11, 2021.</ref> and was portrayed by [[Dennis Hopper]] in the 1993 ''[[Super Mario Bros. (film)|Super Mario Bros.]]'' film.<ref name="AVClub">Murray, Noel (December 12, 2008). "Random Roles: Dennis Hopper". ''The A.V. Club''. The Onion. Retrieved April 16, 2020.</ref> [[Jack Black]] voiced him in ''[[The Super Mario Bros. Movie]]'' (2023) and ''[[The Super Mario Galaxy Movie]]'' (2026).<ref name="Variety">Gleiberman, Owen (April 30, 2023). "That Old Jack Black Magic". ''Variety''. Retrieved May 3, 2023.</ref>

Bowser has received a mostly positive reception, with critics noting that he is one of the most iconic and recognizable video game villains.<ref name="IGNVillains" /><ref name="GameProVillains">Sterbakov, Hugh (March 5, 2008). "The 47 Most Diabolical Video-Game Villains of All Time". ''GamePro''. Archived from the original on October 1, 2008. Retrieved February 21, 2009.</ref> He was crowned the greatest video game villain of all time by the ''[[Guinness World Records Gamer's Edition]]''.<ref name="Guinness">"Guinness World Records Gamer's Edition 2013". p. 193.</ref>

==Development==
[[File:Bowser early concept.jpg|left|thumb|The earliest known concept artwork for Bowser<ref>{{cite web |url=https://medium.com/the-cellar-door/where-did-super-marios-bowser-get-his-name-from-f93ac2d2ae9b |title=Where Did Super Mario's "Bowser" Get His Name From? |first=Jack |last=Shepherd |website=[[Medium (website)|Medium]] |date=April 14, 2023 |access-date=October 8, 2024 }}</ref>]]
Bowser was created by Nintendo designer and producer [[Shigeru Miyamoto]]. Miyamoto had first envisioned Bowser as an [[ox]], based on the ox-like King Gruesome from the [[Toei Animation]] film ''[[Alakazam the Great]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://ds.kombo.com/article.php?artid=7373|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100917090724/http://ds.kombo.com/article.php?artid=7373|url-status=dead|archive-date=September 17, 2010|author=David Oxford|title=Iwata Asks:The Birth of Bowser|publisher=Ds.Kombo|access-date=August 23, 2010}}</ref> However, Nintendo designer [[Takashi Tezuka]] pointed out that the character looked a lot more like a turtle than an ox. Miyamoto and Tezuka then began to redesign his look to reflect a leader of the turtle-like Koopa Troopas. In his final design, Miyamoto commented that he could make Bowser "look cool now".<ref>{{cite web |title=Iwata Asks Volume 8- Flipnote Studios-An Animation Class 4.My First Project: Draw a Rug |url=https://www.nintendo.co.uk/NOE/en_GB/systems/volume_8_14207.html#top |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120525101151/http://www.nintendo.co.uk/NOE/en_GB/systems/volume_8_14207.html#top |url-status=dead |archive-date=May 25, 2012 }}2009-08-11</ref> During the development of ''Super Mario Bros.'', Miyamoto contemplated commissioning the game's art to a manga artist or illustrator. However, due to a lack of time, he created the game's original box art himself. Bowser is depicted in this artwork in a way that differs from later renditions, with the most noticeable differences being his gray-blue complexion and lack of horns. Miyamoto received inspiration for the character's appearance from an anime film version of the Chinese novel ''[[Journey to the West]]'', which was renamed ''Alakazam the Great'' {{failed verification span|text=during the film's Ameri period|date=October 2025}}.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://iwataasks.nintendo.com/interviews/#/ds/dsi/7/3|title=Iwata Asks|website=iwataasks.nintendo.com|access-date=October 11, 2021|archive-date=June 19, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180619204053/http://iwataasks.nintendo.com/interviews/#/ds/dsi/7/3|url-status=live}}</ref>{{Clarify|date=October 2025|reason=The cited source does not mention "Ameri period", which in any event appears to be an obscure phrase that ordinary readers would need explained.}} [[Yōichi Kotabe]] based Bowser's final design on the [[Chinese softshell turtle]], which he recognized as highly aggressive, reflecting Bowser's short temper.<ref name="Kotabe">{{Cite news |title=Les confidences du dessinateur historique des personnages Nintendo |url=https://www.lemonde.fr/pixels/article/2018/12/06/les-confidences-du-dessinateur-historique-des-personnages-nintendo_5393631_4408996.html |newspaper=Le Monde |date=December 6, 2018 |language=fr |access-date=October 11, 2021}}</ref>

Bowser's original working name was "Boss Creeper" ({{lang|ja|ボス クリーパー}} ''Bosu Kurīpā''), after the Shellcreepers, the predecessors to the Koopa race, from ''[[Mario Bros]].''<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thrillingtalesofoldvideogames.com/blog/bowser-vs-king-koopa|title=Bowser Vs. Koopa|website=Thrilling Tales of Old Video Games|access-date=July 25, 2024}}</ref>  Miyamoto then named him {{lang|ja|[[wikt:大|大]][[wikt:魔王#Japanese|魔王]] クッパ}} ''Daimaō Kuppa''. ''Kuppa'' came from the [[Japanese language|Japanese]] name for {{lang|ko|[[wikt:국밥|국밥]]}}, ''[[gukbap]]'', a [[Korean cuisine|Korean dish]]. Miyamoto had also considered the names {{lang|ja|ユッケ}} ''Yukke'' and {{lang|ja|ビビンバ}} ''Bibinba'', also Japanese names of Korean dishes ({{lang|ko|[[wikt:육회|육회]]}} ''[[yukhoe]]'' and {{lang|ko|[[wikt:비빔밥|비빔밥]]}} ''[[bibimbap]]'' respectively).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.famitsu.com/game/extra/special/2000/zelda/zelda04.html|title=独占スクープ！宮本茂最新雑談 [Exclusive Scoop! Miyamoto Shigeru Latest Chat]|last=Yasuhiro|first=Nagata|date=June 2000|publisher=[[Famitsu]]|lang=ja|access-date=November 4, 2016|archive-date=October 10, 2000|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20001010214429/https://www.famitsu.com/game/extra/special/2000/zelda/zelda04.html|url-status=live}}</ref> For the later North American release of the game, which also introduced the [[anglicized]] spelling "Koopa", the character was named Bowser. His [[Korean language|Korean]] name is not ''Gukbap'', but {{lang|ko|쿠파}} ''Kupa'', which is essentially a phonetic [[Reborrowing|round-trip translation]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nintendo.co.kr/DS/soft/mariokart/mariokart_character.php|title=Characters in Mario Kart DS at Nintendo of Korea's website|publisher=Nintendo|access-date=August 10, 2010|archive-date=July 22, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110722041233/http://www.nintendo.co.kr/DS/soft/mariokart/mariokart_character.php|url-status=dead}}</ref> The name was anglicized to Kuppa rather than Koopa in the Japanese versions up until the release of ''[[Super Mario World]]''.<ref>{{cite video game|title=[[Super Mario Bros. 3]]|developer=[[Nintendo Entertainment Analysis and Development]]|publisher=[[Nintendo]]|date=October 23, 1988|platform=[[Famicom]]|language=ja|scene=ending}}</ref><ref>{{cite video game|title=[[Super Mario World]]|developer=[[Nintendo Entertainment Analysis and Development]]|publisher=[[Nintendo]]|date=November 21, 1990|language=ja|scene=ending}}</ref>

It is currently unconfirmed how the character received the English language name "Bowser", or who gave him this name, although there are multiple competing theories. Matthew Byrd of ''[[Den of Geek]]'' noted that one theory comes from "Bowser" being a popular name for pets at the time, while another suggests that Miyamoto himself chose the name because both "Bowser" and ''Bibinba'' start with B. Another theory still relates to the origins of the surname "[[Bowser (surname)|Bowser]]", derived from a [[Norman language|Norman]] greeting meaning "good sir", and that it may be used ironically for the character given his diabolical nature.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.denofgeek.com/games/super-mario-bowser-real-name-origins-history-explained/|title=Super Mario: The Strange Origins of Bowser's Real Name|website=[[Den of Geek]]|date=May 25, 2022 |access-date=July 25, 2024}}</ref>

Within early comics and potentially in the ''[[Super Smash Bros.]]'' series, Bowser has been compared to [[Gamera]], the iconic fictional turtle [[kaiju]] with the abilities to breathe fire as well as fly by hiding in his shell and spinning it; Bowser's ability to perform the latter is called "Gamera Attack" (ガメラアタック, ''Gamera Attakku'').<ref>[[jp:本山一城|Kazuki Motoyama]], 1992, [[jp:スーパーマリオ (本山一城の漫画)|Super Mario]], Vol.7, [[Kodansha]]</ref><ref>[[:ja:沢田ユキオ|Yukio Sawada]], 1994, ''[[:ja:スーパーマリオくん (沢田ユキオの漫画)|Super Mario-kun]]'', Vol.11, [[Shogakukan]]</ref><ref>[https://hissatuwaza.kill.jp/setume/smarioh.htm スーパーマリオワールド（本山版）　[必殺技辞典]] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230601215752/http://hissatuwaza.kill.jp/setume/smarioh.htm |date=June 1, 2023 }}</ref><ref>[http://yadayo.g3.xrea.com/eiga/ka.html ●映画　か]{{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220416114627/http://yadayo.g3.xrea.com/eiga/ka.html |date=April 16, 2022 }}</ref>

==Characteristics==
Bowser is the King of the [[Koopa Troopa|Koopas]], [[anthropomorphic]] [[turtle]]s that inhabit the world of the [[Mushroom Kingdom]]. Bowser differs greatly from the rest of the Koopa clan, which consists mainly of bipedal tortoises. He has a large, spiked [[turtle shell]], horns, a draconic muzzle with fangs, taloned fingers, three clawed toes on each foot, red eyes, and a shock of red hair. He has immense physical strength, is nearly indestructible, can [[Fire-breathing monster|breathe fire]], and can jump very high for his large size. He is accomplished in black magic for teleportation, summoning objects, flying, generating electricity, telekinesis, or metamorphosis.<ref name="auto1">{{Cite web|url=https://www.thegamer.com/super-mario-weird-things-bowser-anatomy/|title=Super Mario: 25 Weird Things About Bowser's Anatomy Fans Forget|date=November 10, 2018|website=[[TheGamer]]|access-date=October 11, 2021|archive-date=June 3, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230603085514/https://www.thegamer.com/super-mario-weird-things-bowser-anatomy/|url-status=live}}</ref>

Bowser's physical size varies and in most games, he towers over most characters. In ''[[Super Mario RPG]]'', he stands only slightly taller than Mario. He changes his size at will or through others' sorcery in games including ''[[Yoshi's Island]]'', ''[[Super Mario Galaxy]]'', and ''[[Super Mario Galaxy 2]]''.<ref name="auto1"/>

Bowser aspires to take over the Mushroom Kingdom and merge it with his own realm. He is infatuated with [[Princess Peach]],<ref>{{cite book|title=Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars Strategy Guide}}</ref><ref>{{cite video game|title=Paper Mario|developer=Intelligent Systems}}</ref><ref>{{cite video game|title=Super Paper Mario|developer=Intelligent Systems}}</ref> and routinely kidnaps her as part of his plans for domination. Sometimes, he kidnaps Peach simply to lure [[Mario]] into a trap, but occasionally he hopes to marry her, such as in ''[[Super Mario Odyssey]]''.<ref name="auto2">{{Cite web|url=https://www.shacknews.com/article/126830/a-new-mushroom-kingdom-25-years-of-super-mario-64|title=A New Mushroom Kingdom: 25 years of Super Mario 64|website=[[Shacknews]]|date=September 29, 2021|access-date=October 11, 2021|archive-date=December 10, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221210231831/https://www.shacknews.com/article/126830/a-new-mushroom-kingdom-25-years-of-super-mario-64|url-status=live}}</ref> He is typically the central antagonist in the main series, but in the [[List of Mario role-playing games|RPG series]], he sometimes works with the heroes to defeat a greater evil. His personality is generally menacing and sinister, but he sometimes displays a more comical side as a blustering, buffoonish [[bully]] with some emotional vulnerability. He also cares for his minions.<ref name="auto1"/>

Originally in ''[[Super Mario Bros. 3]]'', Bowser was stated to be the father of the [[Koopalings]]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/clv/manuals/ja/pdf/CLV-P-HAACJ.pdf |title=Original Japanese manual of ''Super Mario Bros. 3''. |publisher=Nintendo Co., Ltd. |access-date=December 23, 2016 |archive-date=May 14, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230514034344/https://www.nintendo.co.jp/clv//manuals/ja/pdf/CLV-P-HAACJ.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref> with subsequent official sources adding that he is their biological father,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nintendo.co.uk/Games/NES/Super-Mario-Bros-3-279558.html |title=''Super Mario Bros. 3'' page on Nintendo UK's site. |publisher=Nintendo UK |access-date=December 23, 2016 |archive-date=June 29, 2014 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20140629171822/http://www.nintendo.co.uk/Games/NES/Super-Mario-Bros-3-279558.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>"Bowser, King of the Koopas, and his evil offspring have invaded yet another kingdom. The Koopalings have seized the Kingdom's precious crystals. It's up to you, armed with your trusty Nintendo Scope, to ride Yoshi to the rescue!", back of the box of the North American and PAL versions of ''[[Yoshi's Safari]]''.</ref> but since their return in ''[[New Super Mario Bros. Wii]]'' they have been referred to as Bowser's minions. Bowser Jr. was introduced as Bowser's son in the 2002 game ''[[Super Mario Sunshine]]''. In a 2012 interview, Shigeru Miyamoto stated, "Our current story is that the seven Koopalings are not Bowser's children. Bowser's only child is Bowser Jr., and we do not know who the mother is."<ref>{{cite web |author=[[Dan Ryckert|Ryckert, Dan]] |date=September 10, 2015 |url=https://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2015/09/10/miyamoto-tezuka-interview.aspx |title=Mario's Creators Answer Burning Questions About The Series |publisher=[[Game Informer]] |access-date=December 24, 2016 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130123161706/http://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2012/09/24/miyamoto-tezuka-interview.aspx |archive-date=January 23, 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Appearances==
{{multiple image
| footer            = ''[[Super Mario Bros.]]'' is Bowser's first video game appearance as the villainous boss. [[Shigeru Miyamoto|Miyamoto]] (right) and [[Takashi Tezuka|Tezuka]] then began collaboration on Bowser's new image fitting for the commander of the turtle-like Koopa Troopas. Miyamoto said in his final design that he could make Bowser "look cool today".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://medium.com/gaminglinkmedia/how-was-bowser-created-547b32ac8479|title=King Bowser Koopa I of the Koopa Kingdom, Origin — Character Design|first=Ryan|last=Velasco|date=July 5, 2019|access-date=October 11, 2021|archive-date=October 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211011082859/https://medium.com/gaminglinkmedia/how-was-bowser-created-547b32ac8479|url-status=live}}</ref>
| align             = right
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| width             = 
| image1            = Bowser first.png
| width1            = 184
| alt1              = 
| caption1          = 
| image2            = Shigeru Miyamoto 20150610 (cropped 2).jpg
| width2            = 130
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}}
Bowser debuted in the video game ''[[Super Mario Bros.]]''.<ref name="auto4">{{Cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2010/09/14/ign-presents-the-history-of-super-mario-bros|title=IGN Presents: The History of Super Mario Bros.|first=Rus|last=McLaughlin|date=September 14, 2010|website=IGN|access-date=October 11, 2021|archive-date=February 14, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080214150252/http://au.games.ign.com/articles/833/833615p1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> He then appeared through all ''[[Super Mario]]'' games (with the exception of games such as ''[[Super Mario Land]]''), the ''[[Paper Mario]]'' series, the ''Yoshi'' series, and the ''[[Mario & Luigi]]'' series.

===Other ''Mario'' games===
Bowser has appeared in nearly all of the ''Mario'' spin-off games, including in the ''[[Mario Kart]]''<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2021/05/random_nintendos_doug_bowser_introduces_his_parents_to_mario_kart_8_on_switch|title=Random: Nintendo's Doug Bowser Introduces His Parents To Mario Kart 8 On Switch|date=May 16, 2021|website=Nintendo Life|access-date=October 11, 2021|archive-date=October 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211011034159/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2021/05/random_nintendos_doug_bowser_introduces_his_parents_to_mario_kart_8_on_switch|url-status=live}}</ref> and ''[[Mario Party]]'' series.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.kotaku.com.au/2021/09/mario-party-characters-ranked/|title=Ranking Every Mario Party Character From Shit To Lit|date=September 22, 2021|website=Kotaku Australia|access-date=October 11, 2021|archive-date=October 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211011034159/https://www.kotaku.com.au/2021/09/mario-party-characters-ranked/|url-status=dead}}</ref> Bowser appeared in multiple ''Mario'' sports games, such as ''[[Mario Tennis]]'',<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2019/05/dry_bowser_confirmed_to_be_joining_mario_tennis_aces_in_july|title=Dry Bowser Confirmed To Be Joining Mario Tennis Aces In July|date=May 30, 2019|website=Nintendo Life|access-date=October 11, 2021|archive-date=October 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211011034156/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2019/05/dry_bowser_confirmed_to_be_joining_mario_tennis_aces_in_july|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[Mario Golf (video game)|Mario Golf]]'',<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://slate.com/culture/2021/06/mario-golf-super-rush-review-nintendo-switch.html|title=The New Mario Golf Game, According to an Actual Golfer|first=Jim|last=Newell|date=June 29, 2021|website=Slate Magazine|access-date=October 11, 2021|archive-date=October 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211011040402/https://slate.com/culture/2021/06/mario-golf-super-rush-review-nintendo-switch.html|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[Super Mario Strikers]]'',<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://cube.gamespy.com/gamecube/super-mario-strikers/673802p1.html|title=GameSpy: Super Mario Strikers – Page 1|website=cube.gamespy.com|access-date=October 11, 2021|archive-date=September 21, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080921100724/http://cube.gamespy.com/gamecube/super-mario-strikers/673802p1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> and ''[[Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://screenrant.com/super-mario-video-games-movie-should-adapt/|title=10 Mario Games The Movie Could Adapt|date=October 3, 2021|website=ScreenRant|access-date=October 11, 2021|archive-date=October 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211011034159/https://screenrant.com/super-mario-video-games-movie-should-adapt/|url-status=live}}</ref>
 
He appeared in ''[[Mario's Time Machine]]'',<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.allgame.com/game.php?id=12507&tab=review|title=Mario's Time Machine – Review – allgame|date=November 14, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141114134134/http://www.allgame.com/game.php?id=12507&tab=review|archive-date=November 14, 2014}}</ref> ''[[Hotel Mario]]'',<ref name="instructions3">{{cite book|url=https://archive.org/details/HotelMarioUSAManual|title=Hotel Mario instruction book|publisher=Philips Interactive Media|year=1994|pages=2–16|id=PP0260 GA}}</ref> and ''[[Mario Pinball Land]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://gamerant.com/forgotten-obscure-nintendo-games/|title=10 First-Party Nintendo Games Everyone Forgot About|date=August 10, 2021|website=Game Rant|access-date=October 11, 2021|archive-date=October 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211011032314/https://gamerant.com/forgotten-obscure-nintendo-games/|url-status=live}}</ref> Bowser appears as a playable character in ''Itadaki Street DS'' and its Wii sequel ''[[Fortune Street]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://wegotthiscovered.com/gaming/invest-fortune-street-today/|title=Invest In Fortune Street Today|first=Chad|last=Goodmurphy|date=December 5, 2011|access-date=October 11, 2021|archive-date=October 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211011032316/https://wegotthiscovered.com/gaming/invest-fortune-street-today/|url-status=live}}</ref> Bowser is also a Dark attribute character who appears as the main opponent in ''[[Puzzle & Dragons: Super Mario Bros. Edition]]''.<ref>{{cite news| url = https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/comic-riffs/wp/2015/06/09/puzzles-dragons-z-super-mario-bros-edition-struggles-to-make-free-to-play-games-worth-a-higher-price-of-admission/| title = 'Puzzle & Dragons Z + Super Mario Bros. Edition' struggles to make free-to-play games worth a higher price of admission – The Washington Post| newspaper = [[The Washington Post]]| access-date = October 11, 2021| archive-date = August 29, 2021| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210829063022/https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/comic-riffs/wp/2015/06/09/puzzles-dragons-z-super-mario-bros-edition-struggles-to-make-free-to-play-games-worth-a-higher-price-of-admission/| url-status = live}}</ref>
 
Bowser appears in ''[[Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/906/906945p1.html|title=IGN: Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars [Virtual Console] Review|work=IGN |date=September 3, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080903163233/http://wii.ign.com/articles/906/906945p1.html|archive-date=September 3, 2008}}</ref> In ''[[Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle]]'', Bowser makes a cameo.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://blog.ubi.com/mario-rabbids-kingdom-battle-coming-nintendo-switch-august-29-e3-2017/|title=Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle Coming to Nintendo Switch on August 29 – E3 2017 – UbiBlog – Ubisoft|work=UbiBlog - Ubisoft® |date=July 10, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170710014431/https://blog.ubi.com/mario-rabbids-kingdom-battle-coming-nintendo-switch-august-29-e3-2017/|archive-date=July 10, 2017}}</ref> He also reappears in the sequel ''[[Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.imore.com/mario-rabbids-sparks-hope-revealed|title=Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope leaked ahead of main reveal|date=June 12, 2021|website=iMore|access-date=October 11, 2021|archive-date=October 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211011033141/https://www.imore.com/mario-rabbids-sparks-hope-revealed|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Other games===
Bowser is a playable character in every installment of the ''[[Super Smash Bros.]]'' series since 2001's ''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.usgamer.net/articles/10-12-2018-super-smash-bros-ultimate-characters-moves-type-every-character-on-the-super-smash-bros-ultimate-roster/super-smash-bros-ultimate-bowser|title=Super Smash Bros Ultimate Character – Every Fighter in Smash Bros Ultimate|first=Jake|last=Green|date=January 17, 2020|access-date=October 11, 2021|archive-date=October 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211011092749/https://www.usgamer.net/articles/10-12-2018-super-smash-bros-ultimate-characters-moves-type-every-character-on-the-super-smash-bros-ultimate-roster/super-smash-bros-ultimate-bowser|url-status=dead}}</ref> He was intended to be playable in the series' first installment, but was removed during development due to time constraints.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/n01/n64/software/nus_p_nalj/smash/PostReturn075.html|title=アンケート集計拳!!|website=www.nintendo.co.jp|access-date=November 27, 2023|archive-date=December 15, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201215071348/https://www.nintendo.co.jp/n01/n64/software/nus_p_nalj/smash/PostReturn075.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Bowser is in ''[[Tetris Attack]]'', a game inspired by the Japanese game Panel de Pon. All of the original cast members are replaced except Mr. Time, with characters from the Mario and Yoshi series, with Bowser taking on the role of Corderia as final boss.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thegamer.com/weirdest-nintendo-spin-off-games/|title=10 Bizarre Nintendo Spin-Offs You've Probably Never Heard Of|date=October 2, 2020|website=TheGamer|access-date=October 11, 2021|archive-date=October 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211011035639/https://www.thegamer.com/weirdest-nintendo-spin-off-games/|url-status=live}}</ref> With the name Hammer Slam Bowser, Bowser debuts as a playable character in ''[[Skylanders: SuperChargers]]''. He appears alongside ''[[Donkey Kong (character)|Donkey Kong]]'' and comes with a ''[[Skylanders]]'' unique figurine.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20150616005598/en/Skylanders%C2%AE-SuperChargers-Introduces-Donkey-Kong%E2%84%A2-and-Bowser%E2%84%A2-as-Skylanders-Guest-Stars|title=Skylanders SuperChargers Introduces Donkey Kong and Bowser as Skylanders Guest Stars|date=June 16, 2015|website=www.businesswire.com|access-date=October 11, 2021|archive-date=October 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211011032636/https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20150616005598/en/Skylanders%C2%AE-SuperChargers-Introduces-Donkey-Kong%E2%84%A2-and-Bowser%E2%84%A2-as-Skylanders-Guest-Stars|url-status=live}}</ref> Dr. Bowser is playable in ''[[Dr. Mario World]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.polygon.com/22597816/dr-mario-world-mobile-game-ios-android-shutting-down-nintendo|title=Nintendo gives Dr. Mario mobile game just 3 months to live|first=Michael|last=McWhertor|website=[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]|date=July 28, 2021|access-date=October 12, 2021|archive-date=October 11, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221011184049/https://www.polygon.com/22597816/dr-mario-world-mobile-game-ios-android-shutting-down-nintendo|url-status=live}}</ref>

===In other media===
[[Dennis Hopper]] portrayed King Koopa in the 1993 live-action film [[Super Mario Bros. (film)|''Super Mario Bros.'']]<ref>{{Cite web |last=Murray |first=Noel |date=December 12, 2008 |title=Random Roles: Dennis Hopper |url=https://www.avclub.com/random-roles-dennis-hopper-1798215268 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131016075047/http://www.avclub.com/articles/random-roles-dennis-hopper,2549/ |archive-date=October 16, 2013 |access-date=April 16, 2020 |website=[[The A.V. Club]] |publisher=[[The Onion]]}}</ref> In the film, Koopa is the usurper ruler of Dinohattan, a city in a [[Parallel universes in fiction|parallel universe]] in which humans evolved directly from dinosaurs. He abducts [[Princess Daisy]] but is eventually defeated by Mario and Luigi. This incarnation is almost entirely human in appearance, with blonde hair he gels in a crown-like shape, and he frequently wears a black business suit and necktie. However, after brief exposure to his own evolution-reversing technology by the Mario Bros., he starts occasionally possessing some reptilian traits. The climax of the film sees Koopa devolve into an enormous green [[Tyrannosaurus|''Tyrannosaurus rex'']] to battle the Mario Bros., who further devolve him into primordial ooze.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.smbmovie.com/SMBArchive/specials/interviews/2_JeffGoodwin_3-30-09.html|title=Super Mario Bros. The Movie Archive|publisher=Smbmovie.com|date=March 30, 2009|access-date=August 10, 2010|archive-date=March 10, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100310101125/http://www.smbmovie.com/SMBArchive/specials/interviews/2_JeffGoodwin_3-30-09.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

Bowser is one of the gaming villains attending a "Bad-Anon" support group in the 2012 animated film ''[[Wreck-It Ralph]]''.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.cinemablend.com/new/wreck-it-ralph-footage-from-d23-features-8-bit-action-plenty-of-cameos-26349.html |title=Wreck-It Ralph Footage From D23 Features 8-Bit Action, Plenty Of Cameos |website=CinemaBlend.com |date=August 21, 2011 |access-date=September 5, 2012 |archive-date=December 29, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121229164020/http://www.cinemablend.com/new/wreck-it-ralph-footage-from-d23-features-8-bit-action-plenty-of-cameos-26349.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> The writers had early on envisioned the Bad-anon meeting with Bowser as a major character within the scene; according to film director [[Rich Moore]], Nintendo was very positive towards this use, stating in Moore's own words, "If there is a group that is dedicated to helping the bad guy characters in video games then Bowser must be in that group!"<ref name="game informer interview">{{cite magazine | url = https://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2013/02/11/wreck-it-ralph-39-s-director-answers-our-questions.aspx | title = Wreck-It Ralph's Director Answers Our Questions | first = Kyle | last = Hillard | date = February 11, 2013 | access-date = February 11, 2013 | magazine = [[Game Informer]] | archive-date = April 6, 2023 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20230406175318/https://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2013/02/11/wreck-it-ralph-39-s-director-answers-our-questions.aspx | url-status = live }}</ref>

Bowser was voiced by [[Jack Black]] in ''[[The Super Mario Bros. Movie]]'' (2023) and the upcoming ''[[The Super Mario Galaxy Movie]]'' (2026).<ref name="2023 film">{{cite web |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/chris-pratt-nintendo-direct-super-mario-bros-movie-cast-illumination-entertainment |title=Nintendo Direct: Chris Pratt Will Voice Mario in the Super Mario Bros. Movie |last=Murphy |first=J. Kim |work=[[IGN]] |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |date=September 23, 2021 |accessdate=September 24, 2021 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210923223916/https://www.ign.com/articles/chris-pratt-nintendo-direct-super-mario-bros-movie-cast-illumination-entertainment |archivedate=September 23, 2021 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last1=Dunn |first1=Jack |last2=Moreau |first2=Jordan |date=September 12, 2025 |title='Super Mario Bros. 2' Officially Titled 'Super Mario Galaxy Movie' |url=https://variety.com/2025/film/news/super-mario-galaxy-movie-sequel-1236515440/ |access-date=September 12, 2025 |website=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |language=en-US}}</ref> In the film, Bowser successfully captures the Super Star from the Penguin Kingdom and plots to destroy the Mushroom Kingdom unless Princess Peach agrees to marry him. His plans are ultimately foiled by Mario and Luigi, who retrieve the Super Star from Bowser, and defeat him in a final battle taking place in Brooklyn. Bowser is then shrunk with a Mini Mushroom and imprisoned in a bottle. In a [[Post-credits scene|mid-credit scene]], Bowser is singing his song from earlier in the film, but he is scolded by a guard. This has also made Bowser the subject of an [[Internet meme]] with the song "[[Peaches (Jack Black song)|Peaches]]", written and performed in character by Black.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Gleiberman |first1=Owen |title=That Old Jack Black Magic: As the Villain of 'The Super Mario Bros. Movie,' the Actor Gives His Peachiest Performance in Years |url=https://variety.com/2023/film/columns/that-old-jack-black-magic-the-super-mario-bros-movie-1235598867/ |website=Variety |access-date=3 May 2023 |date=30 April 2023 |archive-date=May 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230503140513/https://variety.com/2023/film/columns/that-old-jack-black-magic-the-super-mario-bros-movie-1235598867/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

He appeared in ''[[Nintendo gamebooks]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.gamesasylum.com/2013/10/22/nintendo-adventure-books-probably-not-due-a-revival/|title=Nintendo Adventure Books: probably not due a revival|author=Jake|date=October 22, 2013|access-date=October 11, 2021|archive-date=October 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211011035451/https://www.gamesasylum.com/2013/10/22/nintendo-adventure-books-probably-not-due-a-revival/|url-status=live}}</ref> Bowser appears as the primary antagonist in Nintendo Power's comic series ''[[Super Mario Adventures]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.superluigibros.com/mario-v-wario-comic-issue-2|title=Super Luigi Bros – Mario vs. Wario Comic Issue. 2 from Nintendo Power Magazine Vol. 56|website=www.superluigibros.com|access-date=October 11, 2021|archive-date=October 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211011035439/http://www.superluigibros.com/mario-v-wario-comic-issue-2|url-status=live}}</ref> Bowser reappears in the Mario comics of Valiant Comics' ''[[Nintendo Comics System]]'' as the principal antagonist of the Mushroom Kingdom.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2018/12/comic-video-game-crossover-history/|title=Drawn together: The love affair between comics and games|first=Ars|last=Staff|date=December 24, 2018|website=Ars Technica|access-date=October 11, 2021|archive-date=October 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211011054318/https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2018/12/comic-video-game-crossover-history/|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Reception and legacy==
<!-- Deleted image removed: [[File:Emblem Bowser.svg|left|thumb|116x116px|Bowser's logo|alt=A cartoon silhouette of Bowser's face, in black with no backdrop.]] -->
Due largely to the success of the ''Mario'' franchise, Bowser has become one of the most iconic and easily recognizable video game antagonists of all time. He frequently appears in lists for greatest video game antagonists. ''[[IGN]]'' placed him at No. 2 out of 100,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/videogame-villains/2.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100523034131/http://www.ign.com/videogame-villains/2.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=May 23, 2010|title=The Top 100 Videogame Villains: Most Memorable Villains|publisher=IGN|date=March 7, 2006|access-date=October 8, 2010}}</ref> and ''[[GamePro]]'' placed him at No. 9 out of 47.<ref>{{cite web|first=Hugh|last=Sterbakov|url=http://www.gamepro.com/article/features/166668/the-47-most-diabolical-video-game-villains-of-all-time-page-5-of-7/|title=The 47 Most Diabolical Video-Game Villains of All Time|publisher=[[GamePro]]|date=March 5, 2008|access-date=February 21, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081001002706/http://www.gamepro.com/article/features/166668/the-47-most-diabolical-video-game-villains-of-all-time-page-5-of-7/|archive-date=October 1, 2008}}</ref> ''[[GameSpot]]'' listed him at No. 9 in their "Top 10 Video Game Villains" article, stating "Of all the villains to make an appearance on this list, Bowser... has got to be the most interesting," later adding "While some people say Bowser's life may have gotten into a rut, the man has simply refined his game down to an everyday thing. He's focused, he's dedicated, and worst of all, he's patient."<ref>{{cite web|author=Staff|author2=designed by James Cheung|url=http://www.gamespot.com/features/vgs/universal/tenspot_villains/page3.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070329063910/http://www.gamespot.com/features/vgs/universal/tenspot_villains/page3.html|archive-date=March 29, 2007|title=TenSpot: Top Ten Video Game Villains|publisher=[[GameSpot]]|date=January 21, 2000|access-date=December 31, 2008}}</ref> Bowser ranked in the first slot on ''[[GameDaily]]''{{'}}s top 10 Nintendo characters that deserve their own games list, explaining if [[Yoshi]] and [[Wario]] get their own games, Bowser should too due to his being one of gaming's most nefarious villains.<ref name="gamedaily">{{cite web|title=Top 10 Nintendo Characters That Deserve Their Own Games – Page 10|url=http://www.gamedaily.com/articles/galleries/top-10-nintendo-characters-that-deserve-their-own-games/?page=10|publisher=[[GameDaily]]|access-date=August 7, 2009|archive-date=December 13, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091213005336/http://www.gamedaily.com/articles/galleries/top-10-nintendo-characters-that-deserve-their-own-games/?page=10|url-status=live}}</ref> In ''GameDaily''{{'}}s top 10 Smash Bros. characters list, he ranked sixth.<ref>{{cite web|title=Top 10 Smash Bros. Characters – Page 5|url=http://www.gamedaily.com/articles/galleries/top-ten-super-smash-bros-characters/?page=5|publisher=[[GameDaily]]|access-date=August 7, 2009|archive-date=October 23, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091023030753/http://www.gamedaily.com/articles/galleries/top-ten-super-smash-bros-characters/?page=5|url-status=live}}</ref> ''GameDaily'' also included him in their most persistent video game villains list.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamedaily.com/articles/galleries/most-persistent-video-game-villains/?page=2|title=Most Persistent Video Game Villains|publisher=GameDaily|access-date=June 13, 2011|archive-date=September 11, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180911151818/http://www.gamedaily.com/articles/galleries/most-persistent-video-game-villains/?page=2|url-status=live}}</ref> However, Bowser has been also rated as the 4th-biggest douchebag in gaming history by ''[[ScrewAttack]]'', who said that he wants to "take Mario down".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gametrailers.com/video/top-ten-screwattack/20064|title=Top Ten Douchebags of Gaming|series=''[[ScrewAttack's Top 10]]''|publisher=GameTrailers|access-date=June 13, 2011|archive-date=June 16, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110616071649/http://www.gametrailers.com/video/top-ten-screwattack/20064|url-status=live}}</ref> ''IGN'' editor Craig Harris described Bowser as being a household name.<ref>{{cite web|last=Harris|first=Craig|date=June 4, 2004|title=Classic NES Series: Super Mario Bros.|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2004/06/05/classic-nes-series-super-mario-bros|publisher=IGN|access-date=December 22, 2009|archive-date=June 16, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130616192347/http://www.ign.com/articles/2004/06/05/classic-nes-series-super-mario-bros|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2011, ''[[Empire (film magazine)|Empire]]'' ranked him as the 23rd-greatest video game character<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.empireonline.com/movies/features/50-greatest-video-game-characters/|title=The 50 Greatest Video Game Characters – 23. Bowser|work=Empire|first1=James|last1=Dyer|first2=David|last2=McComb|first3=Alastair|last3=Plumb|first4=David|last4=Scarborough|date=May 26, 2010|access-date=August 2, 2013|archive-date=November 2, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121102113748/http://www.empireonline.com/features/50-greatest-video-game-characters/default.asp?film=13|url-status=live}}</ref> while ''[[Guinness World Records Gamer's Edition]] 2013'' featured Bowser first in their list of top 50 Villains.<ref>{{cite book|title=Guinness World Records 2013 Gamer's Edition|page=193}}</ref> ''IGN'' named Bowser as one of the "oldest villains in gaming history, not to mention one of the most iconic."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2010/03/09/big-boss-of-the-day-bowser|title=Big Boss of the Day: Bowser|author=Jesse Schedeen|date=March 9, 2010|publisher=IGN|access-date=October 12, 2021|archive-date=October 28, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211028175333/https://www.ign.com/articles/2010/03/09/big-boss-of-the-day-bowser|url-status=live}}</ref>

Bowser's role in ''[[Super Mario Galaxy]]'' has been met with significant praise. ''[[Eurogamer]]'' editor Margaret Robertson commented that after years of being a "comedy villain", ''Galaxy'' put him back at his "scaly, scabrous best".<ref name="eurogamer review">{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/super-mario-galaxy-review|title=Super Mario Galaxy Review|access-date=January 26, 2010|first=Margaret|last=Robertson|publisher=EuroGamer|date=November 5, 2007|archive-date=March 22, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160322064616/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/super-mario-galaxy-review|url-status=live}}</ref> ''PALGN'' editor Chris Sell called him the best boss in ''Mario Galaxy'', stating that it wasn't just because of the battles with him being "superb, screen filling affairs", but also because he is "back to being mean again".<ref name="palgn review">{{cite web|url=http://palgn.com.au/nintendo-wii/9354/super-mario-galaxy-review/|title=Super Mario Galaxy Review|access-date=January 26, 2010|first=Chris|last=Sell|website=PALGN|date=November 8, 2007|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100704100936/http://palgn.com.au/nintendo-wii/9354/super-mario-galaxy-review/|archive-date=July 4, 2010}}</ref> ''Nintendo World Report'' editor Aaron Kaluszka commented that battling Bowser has never been "this intense and engaging".<ref name="NWR review">{{cite web|url=http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/review/14788|title=Super Mario Galaxy Review|access-date=January 26, 2010|first=Aaron|last=Kaluszka|publisher=Nintendo World Report|date=November 12, 2007|archive-date=October 2, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101002101755/http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/review/14788|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[IGN]]'' editor Cam Shea praised his physical appearance in ''Super Mario Galaxy'', describing him as "imposing and weighty".<ref name="ign au review">{{cite web|url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/837/837867p1.html|title=Super Mario Galaxy AU Review: The Greatest Platformer of all time? And How..|access-date=January 26, 2010|first=Cam|last=Shea|publisher=IGN AU|date=November 12, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090122084823/http://wii.ign.com/articles/837/837867p1.html|archive-date=January 22, 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref> Another ''IGN'' editor, Matt Casamassina, praised the visual quality of the characters, citing Bowser in particular and mentioning how his "funky red fur waggles in the wind".<ref name="ign review">{{cite web|url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/833/833298p1.html|title=Super Mario Galaxy Review: The greatest Nintendo platformer ever made?|access-date=January 26, 2010|first=Matt|last=Casamassina|publisher=IGN|date=November 7, 2007|archive-date=May 9, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120509231929/http://wii.ign.com/articles/833/833298p1.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> ''Game Positive'' editor Travis Simmons concurred, commenting that his hair "gives him a touch of personality".<ref name="gamepostive review">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamepositive.com/game/wii/supermariogalaxy/review.html|title=Super Mario Galaxy (Wii) Review|access-date=January 26, 2010|first=Travis|last=Timmons|publisher=gamePositive|date=November 19, 2007|archive-date=October 6, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081006204504/http://www.gamepositive.com/game/wii/supermariogalaxy/review.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

Bowser's role in ''[[Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story]]'' has highly positive reception, frequently referenced as its main character. ''Eurogamer'' editor Christian Donlan commented that it felt good to play as Bowser, and that "After years of picking a path carefully around threats, jumping out of harm's way, and tackling challengers mostly from above, it's a pleasure to put those cares aside and relish a few hours of spiky, tortoise-shelled power."<ref name="EG review">{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/mario-and-luigi-bowsers-inside-story-review|title=Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story Review|access-date=January 26, 2010|first=Christian|last=Donlan|publisher=EuroGamer|date=September 18, 2009|archive-date=January 21, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100121034327/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/mario-and-luigi-bowsers-inside-story-review?|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[Destructoid]]'' editor [[James Stephanie Sterling]] described Bowser's gameplay as "brilliant comic relief". She also described the dialogue of the game as being "laugh out loud funny", specifically praising Bowser's ego.<ref name="Destructoid review">{{cite web|url=http://www.destructoid.com/review-mario-luigi-bowser-s-inside-story-149275.phtml|title=Review: Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story|access-date=January 26, 2010|first=Jim|last=Sterling|publisher=Destructoid|date=September 21, 2009|archive-date=January 15, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100115180643/http://www.destructoid.com/review-mario-luigi-bowser-s-inside-story-149275.phtml|url-status=live}}</ref> ''RPGamer'' editor Michael Cunningham praised the game for Bowser "stealing the show", but also decried it for not having quite enough of him.<ref name="RPGGamer review">{{cite web|url=http://www.rpgamer.com/games/mario/mandl3/reviews/mandl3strev3.html|title=Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story – Staff Review|access-date=January 26, 2010|first=Michael|last=Cunningham|publisher=RPG Gamer|date=September 21, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091122015027/http://www.rpgamer.com/games/mario/mandl3/reviews/mandl3strev3.html|archive-date=November 22, 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref> ''Nintendo World Report'' editor Pedro Hernandez commented that the plot and humor of the game make iconic characters "more enduring, including Bowser".<ref name="NintendoWorldReport review">{{cite web|url=http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/review/20040|title=Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story: Review (North American)|access-date=January 26, 2010|first=Pedro|last=Hernandez|publisher=Nintendo World Report|date=September 26, 2009|archive-date=June 6, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110606101557/http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/review/20040|url-status=live}}</ref>

''NGamer'' magazine editor Matthew Castle commented that all ''Mario'' role-playing games make good use of Bowser, but that this is the first game where Bowser takes the center stage.<ref name="NGamer review">{{cite web|url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/225038/reviews/mario-luigi-bowsers-inside-story-review/|title=Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story Review|access-date=January 26, 2010|first=Matthew|last=Castle|publisher=CVG|date=October 7, 2009|archive-date=February 1, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110201035250/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/225038/reviews/mario-luigi-bowsers-inside-story-review/|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Game Style'' editor Drew Middlemas commented that Bowser stole the show, being portrayed as a "creature of pure, blustering ego who reminds us of why he's one of gaming's greatest baddies."<ref name="Gamestyle review">{{cite web|url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/225038/reviews/mario-luigi-bowsers-inside-story-review/|title=Review: Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story|access-date=January 26, 2010|first=Drew|last=Middlemas|publisher=GameStyle|date=October 7, 2009|archive-date=February 1, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110201035250/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/225038/reviews/mario-luigi-bowsers-inside-story-review/|url-status=live}}</ref> ''N-Europe'' editor called him the "real star" of the game, calling him a "fantastic character" with "so much more to give than what we've seen from him so far, even in the other Mario RPGs". He added that his "foul mood and lack of intelligence" as well as his interactions with other characters are well written.<ref name="n-europe review">{{cite web|url=http://www.n-europe.com/review.php?rid=491|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091231231733/http://n-europe.com/review.php?rid=491|url-status=dead|archive-date=December 31, 2009|title=Review: Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story|access-date=January 26, 2010|first=João|last=Lopes|publisher=N-Europe|date=November 12, 2009}}</ref> ''Kombo'' editor commented that he became a more sympathetic character as the game progresses, adding that his "massive ego pushes him towards heroism".<ref name="kombo review">{{cite web|url=http://ds.kombo.com/article.php?artid=7481|title=Review: Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story|access-date=January 26, 2010|first=Matthew|last=Green|publisher=Kombo|date=September 24, 2009}}{{dead link|date=December 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> ''[[Wired (magazine)|Wired]]'' editor Chris Kohler called Bowser awesome, adding that his segments are funnier than Mario and Luigi's.<ref name="wired review">{{cite magazine|url=https://www.wired.com/gamelife/2009/10/mario-and-luigi/|title=Review: Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story Is the Un-RPG|access-date=January 26, 2010|first=Chris|last=Kohler|magazine=Wired|date=October 16, 2009|archive-date=February 6, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100206194511/http://www.wired.com/gamelife/2009/10/mario-and-luigi|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[Giant Bomb]]'' editor Brad Shoemaker states that Bowser steals the show, commenting that playing as him gives players an inside glimpse of his ego and megalomania.<ref name="GB review">{{cite web|url=http://www.giantbomb.com/mario-luigi-bowsers-inside-story/61-23983/reviews/|title=Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story|access-date=January 26, 2010|first=Brad|last=Shoemaker|publisher=GiantBomb|date=October 16, 2009|archive-date=October 11, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121011230138/http://www.giantbomb.com/mario-luigi-bowsers-inside-story/61-23983/reviews/|url-status=live}}</ref> ''IGN'' editor Craig Harris described Bowser as the only "core Nintendo character over the past couple decades" to not have a starring role in a video game, and this game acts as his "big break".<ref name="IGN DS review">{{cite web|url=http://ds.ign.com/articles/102/1023475p1.html|title=Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story Review|access-date=January 26, 2010|first=Craig|last=Harris|publisher=IGN|date=September 10, 2009|archive-date=August 16, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120816224322/http://ds.ign.com/articles/102/1023475p1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[1UP.com]]'' editor Jeremy Parish stated that Bowser makes the game, describing him as more interesting than ''Bowser's Inside Story'' predecessor's partners, the baby forms of Mario and Luigi.<ref name="1up review">{{cite web|url=http://www.1up.com/reviews/mario-luigi-bowser-story-review|title=Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story Review|access-date=January 26, 2010|first=Jeremy|last=Parish|publisher=1up|date=September 15, 2009|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629040454/http://www.1up.com/reviews/mario-luigi-bowser-story-review|archive-date=June 29, 2011}}</ref> ''[[GamePro]]'' editor Alicia Ashby called Bowser one of the most "lovable characters in the Nintendo universe", and praising ''Bowser's Inside Story'' for giving him "much deserved time in the spotlight".<ref name="GamePro review">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamepro.com/article/reviews/212110/mario-luigi-bowsers-inside-story/|title=Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story Review|access-date=January 26, 2010|first=Alicia|last=Ashby|publisher=GamePro|date=September 15, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111202130943/http://www.gamepro.com/article/reviews/212110/mario-luigi-bowsers-inside-story/|archive-date=December 2, 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref> ''[[GameSpy]]'' editor Phil Theobald called him the breakout star of the game, stating that "the gruff, quick-to-anger pro/antagonist is a treat to watch as he continuously becomes infuriated with the incompetence of his minions."<ref name="GameSpy review">{{cite web|url=http://ds.gamespy.com/nintendo-ds/mario-luigi-rpg-3/1024131p1.html|title=Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story Review|access-date=January 26, 2010|first=Phil|last=Theobald|publisher=GameSpy|date=September 11, 2009|archive-date=August 12, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200812221152/http://ds.gamespy.com/nintendo-ds/mario-luigi-rpg-3/1024131p1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[GamesRadar]]'' editor Henry Gilbert stated that he is "home to the most drastic change to the formula" in this game, stating that while he is still a "humorously incapable villain", the game allows players to switch between Bowser and the Mario Bros. at their discretion."<ref name="GamesRadar review">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamesradar.com/ds/mario-and-luigi-bowsers-inside-story/review/mario-and-luigi-bowsers-inside-story/a-20090911155424963017/g-20081002135458498023|title=Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story Review|access-date=January 26, 2010|first=Henry|last=Gilbert|publisher=GamesRadar|date=September 11, 2009|archive-date=June 15, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110615234736/http://www.gamesradar.com/ds/mario-and-luigi-bowsers-inside-story/review/mario-and-luigi-bowsers-inside-story/a-20090911155424963017/g-20081002135458498023|url-status=live}}</ref>

Some ''[[Super Mario 64]]'' fans joked that Mario supposedly shouts, "So long, gay Bowser!" when throwing him a great distance. In April 2019, [[Charles Martinet]], Mario's voice actor, [[Tweet (social media)|tweeted]] that Mario says, "So long, King-a Bowser!".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2020-09-19-mario-doesnt-shout-gay-bowser-in-super-mario-3d-all-stars-mario-64|title=So long, "gay Bowser" – fans lament the loss of Mario 64's most famous line in Super Mario 3D All-Stars|first=Wesley|last=Yin-Poole|website=[[Eurogamer]]|date=September 19, 2020|access-date=October 11, 2021|archive-date=October 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211011042721/https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2020-09-19-mario-doesnt-shout-gay-bowser-in-super-mario-3d-all-stars-mario-64|url-status=live}}</ref> In the Japanese [[Rumble Pak]]-compatible version, as well as ''[[Super Mario 64 DS]]'' and ''[[Super Mario 3D All-Stars]]'', Mario instead says "buh-bye!",<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://kotaku.com/super-mario-64-s-weird-gay-bowser-line-isn-t-in-super-m-1845106761|title=Super Mario 64's Weird 'Gay Bowser' Line Isn't In Super Mario 3D All-Stars|website=Kotaku|date=September 18, 2020|access-date=October 11, 2021|archive-date=October 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211011042802/https://kotaku.com/super-mario-64-s-weird-gay-bowser-line-isn-t-in-super-m-1845106761|url-status=live}}</ref> which Nintendo later confirmed in a tweet.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.polygon.com/2020/9/18/21445859/super-mario-64-nintendo-switch-3d-all-stars-gay-bowser-bye-charles-martinet|title=Internet pours one out for Super Mario 64's 'Gay Bowser,' who is dead now|first=Patricia|last=Hernandez|website=[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]|date=September 18, 2020|access-date=October 11, 2021|archive-date=March 26, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210326004504/https://www.polygon.com/2020/9/18/21445859/super-mario-64-nintendo-switch-3d-all-stars-gay-bowser-bye-charles-martinet|url-status=live}}</ref>

In the 2018 short comic ''The Super Crown's Some Spicy New Mario Lore'' on [[DeviantArt]] and [[Twitter]], Bowser uses a Super Crown to transform into a monstrously sinister female resembling Peach, which fans named [[Bowsette]].<ref>{{Cite web|last=Kent|first=Emma|date=September 24, 2018|title=Nintendo fans are splicing Bowser with Peach and now Bowsette is trending|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2018-09-24-bowsette-is-trending-on-twitter|access-date=December 12, 2020|website=Eurogamer|language=en|archive-date=September 24, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180924191149/https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2018-09-24-bowsette-is-trending-on-twitter|url-status=live}}</ref> The character subsequently went viral.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://qz.com/1505674/the-wildest-internet-phenomenon-of-2018-was-bowsette/|title=The wildest internet phenomenon of 2018 was Bowsette|first1=Corinne|last1=Purtill|first2=Dan|last2=Kopf|website=Quartz|date=December 22, 2018|access-date=October 12, 2021|archive-date=October 27, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211027182241/https://qz.com/1505674/the-wildest-internet-phenomenon-of-2018-was-bowsette/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Machkovech|first=Sam|date=September 28, 2018|title=Nintendo reveals it invented "Bowsette" before the Internet did|url=https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2018/09/turns-out-nintendo-created-bowsette-before-the-internet-did/|access-date=December 12, 2020|website=Ars Technica|language=en-us|archive-date=September 28, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180928214026/https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2018/09/turns-out-nintendo-created-bowsette-before-the-internet-did/|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2015, the [[alligator snapping turtle]] of the [[Amur River]] was discovered and became an Internet sensation for its resemblance to Bowser.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.siliconrepublic.com/earth-science/real-life-bowser-dinosaur-turtle-found-in-russian-river-video|title=Real-life Bowser 'dinosaur turtle' found in Russian river (video)|first=Elaine|last=Burke|date=July 3, 2015|website=Silicon Republic|access-date=October 11, 2021|archive-date=July 24, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210724143024/https://www.siliconrepublic.com/earth-science/real-life-bowser-dinosaur-turtle-found-in-russian-river-video|url-status=live}}</ref> "Bowser Day 2021" became a Twitter fad.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2021/08/random_bowser_day_2021_trends_online_as_fans_celebrate_nintendos_iconic_villain|title=Random: 'Bowser Day 2021' Trends Online As Fans Celebrate Nintendo's Iconic Villain|date=August 5, 2021|website=Nintendo Life|access-date=October 11, 2021|archive-date=October 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211011053949/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2021/08/random_bowser_day_2021_trends_online_as_fans_celebrate_nintendos_iconic_villain|url-status=live}}</ref>

==References==
* {{cite book|last1=Nintendo|url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/clvs/manuals/common/pdf/CLV-P-SAAAE.pdf|title=Super Mario World | type=instruction manual |date=1991|publisher=[[Nintendo EAD]]|pages=2–27}}
* {{cite book | year=2007 |author=Nintendo| title=Super Mario Galaxy | type=instruction manual | pages=3–22 | publisher=[[Nintendo]]}}

{{Reflist}}

==External links==
{{Wikiquote|Bowser}}
* [https://www.giantbomb.com/bowser/3005-337/ Bowser] at [[Giant Bomb]]
* [https://play.nintendo.com/themes/friends/bowser/ Bowser on Play Nintendo]

{{Mario franchise}}
{{Super Smash Bros.}}
{{Portal bar|Video games}}

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