Yoshi : Le dinosaure fidèle de l’univers Super Mario

Yoshi: The faithful dinosaur of the Super Mario universe

1430 mots | Temps de lecture : 7 minute(s)

Yoshi is one of the most beloved characters in the Super Mario franchise, first appearing in 1990 (Japan). This colorful dinosaur with a joyful temperament is famous for his extendable tongue, his ability to lay eggs, and his unwavering loyalty to Mario. With his cute design, multiple variations, and unique gameplay, he has captivated several generations of players and risen to the status of a video game icon.

Summary

Yoshi’s Beginnings

Yoshi made his debut in Super Mario World (1990 in Japan, Super Nintendo), where he accompanied Mario throughout his adventure in the dinosaur kingdom. He was the result of an old idea by Shigeru Miyamoto, who wanted Mario to be able to ride a creature since the time of Super Mario Bros. 3, but the NES technology did not yet allow it.

Designed by Shigefumi Hino, Yoshi was initially supposed to resemble a crocodile or a horse, but his appearance evolved into a small, round, and endearing dinosaur. His popularity was immediate, to the point that he became the star of his own games the following year, with Yoshi (1991 in Japan, NES/Game Boy puzzle game).

Yoshi’s Characteristics

  • Species: Fictional dinosaur called “Yoshi”
  • Emblematic color: Green, but comes in many shades (red, blue, yellow, black, pink, etc.)
  • Special abilities: Extendable tongue, flutter jump, egg-laying, transformations via items or fruits
  • Mario’s mount: Can be ridden and used to reach otherwise inaccessible areas

His flutter jump is particularly distinctive, as is his characteristic cry (“Yoshi!”) and the joyful sounds that accompany his movements. Yoshi embodies accessible fun and creativity, whether solo or alongside Mario.

Yoshi: From Companion to Hero

Yoshi quickly got his own adventures:

  • Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island (1995) – One of the greatest classics of 2D platformers. Yoshi protects Baby Mario and demonstrates ingenuity through levels with a crayon aesthetic.
  • Yoshi’s Story (1997) – A more child-oriented experience, with a lighthearted narrative and an art direction based on fabric and textures.
  • Yoshi’s Woolly World (2015) – A charming and inventive wool game, praised for its art direction.
  • Yoshi’s Crafted World (2019) – A cardboard world, in-depth gameplay with the possibility of revisiting levels from a different angle.

These titles offer a softer gameplay, based on exploration and precision rather than speed or intense challenges, making them perfect for a young audience or those seeking relaxation.

Yoshi in Main Mario Games

Beyond his dedicated games, Yoshi remains a recurring ally of Mario:

  • Super Mario Galaxy 2 – Yoshi accompanies Mario in several galaxies, introducing new mechanics related to his transformations via fruits.
  • Super Mario Odyssey – Yoshi appears in post-game, playable after being Cappy-transformed with Cappy on the roof of Peach’s Castle, in the Mushroom Kingdom.

His role is always conceived as valuable and original support, offering new options for mobility and interaction.

Presence in Spin-offs

  • Mario Kart – Yoshi is one of the most popular characters, thanks to his good balance between acceleration and handling.
  • Mario Party – A recurring character, appreciated for his joyful look and ease of use.
  • Sports games – Present in all Mario Tennis, Golf, or Strikers, with a fast and mischievous style.
  • Super Smash Bros. – Playable in all installments, using his tongue, eggs, and agility to surprise the opponent.

Relationship with Mario

The relationship between Yoshi and Mario is based on total trust. Yoshi doesn't just follow Mario: he protects him, transports him, and saves him numerous times. From Yoshi's Island, he becomes the guardian of Baby Mario, establishing a strong symbolic connection.

A famous moment: in Super Mario World, Mario is sometimes forced to "sacrifice" Yoshi to reach certain platforms, creating a mix of dark humor and guilt in the collective imagination.

Why is Yoshi So Loved?

  • Endearing design: smiling face, relaxed posture, childlike voice — a memorable character.
  • Distinctive gameplay: he doesn't play like Mario or Luigi, and that's what people like.
  • Versatility: hero, support, mount, or exploration tool, Yoshi can do it all.
  • Symbol of innocence and joy: a universe dominated by good humor.

Yoshi in Other Media

Yoshi appears in the 1990s animated series (Super Mario World) and in several comic books published by Nintendo or third-party publishers. He is also one of the most used characters in Nintendo merchandise (plush toys, t-shirts, figurines, backpacks...).

In The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023), a Yoshi egg is glimpsed at the end, foreshadowing a highly anticipated arrival in a potential sequel. Fans are already eager to see how this iconic character will be adapted to the screen.

Recap Sheet: Yoshi

First Appearance Super Mario World (1990 in Japan; 1991-1992 in North America and Europe, Super Nintendo)
Design Creator Shigefumi Hino; original idea by Shigeru Miyamoto
Species Fictional dinosaur called “Yoshi”
Emblematic Color Green (many other shades: red, blue, yellow, black, pink...)
Abilities Extendable tongue, flutter jump, egg-laying
Notable Dedicated Games Yoshi's Island (1995), Yoshi's Story (1997), Yoshi's Woolly World (2015), Yoshi's Crafted World (2019)
Role Mario's loyal mount and companion, also a hero in his own games
Peluche Mario - Yoshi Noir - 10cm

🍄 Want to extend the adventure? Discover our Yoshi products in the store.

FAQ

  • When did Yoshi first appear?
    Yoshi debuted in Super Mario World, released in 1990 in Japan (1991-1992 in North America and Europe) on Super Nintendo, where he accompanies Mario in the dinosaur kingdom.
  • Who created Yoshi?
    Yoshi was designed by graphic artist Shigefumi Hino, based on an old idea by Shigeru Miyamoto, who had wanted Mario to be able to ride a creature since Super Mario Bros. 3.
  • What are Yoshi's abilities?
    He has an extendable tongue, a distinctive flutter jump (popularized in Yoshi's Island), and can lay eggs. He also serves as Mario's mount to reach inaccessible areas.
  • Does Yoshi have his own games?
    Yes, notably Yoshi's Island (1995), Yoshi's Story (1997), Yoshi's Woolly World (2015), and Yoshi's Crafted World (2019), with softer gameplay focused on exploration.
  • In which spin-offs can you find Yoshi?
    He appears in Mario Kart, Mario Party, several sports games (Tennis, Golf, Strikers), and is playable in all Super Smash Bros. installments.

Conclusion

Yoshi is not just a companion to Mario: he is an essential figure in the Nintendo universe. His charm, unique playability, and ability to adapt to all game styles make him a distinct character, cherished by children and adults alike. Whether for exploring, protecting, or simply making people smile, Yoshi will always be there, ready to leap tongue-first into a new adventure.

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