The In-Game Evolution of Video Game Characters Over Time

Some of the most storied video game franchises have some of the most interesting and exciting characters to go along with them. From game universes like Super Mario and Sonic the Hedgehog to long-time fighting game franchises like Mortal Kombat and Street Fighter, each boast their own unique rosters of different characters.

This infographic from PlaygroundEquipment.com takes a closer look at just how twenty of the most notable characters ever from gaming have evolved within their games over time. The earliest character featured on here is Donkey Kong, dating all the way back to his arcade classic that debuted from Nintendo in 1981, and spans all the way to the most recent release of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.

The game franchises represented on this infographic include:

Super Mario Bros.: Mario, Luigi, Donkey Kong, Princess Peach, Yoshi, Wario, and Bowser
The Legend of Zelda: Link and Princess Zelda
Capcom Games: Mega Man and Ryu
Mortal Kombat: Sub-Zero, Scorpion, Sonya Blade, and Jade
Others: Kirby, Pikachu, Samus Aran, Solid Snake, and Sonic the Hedgehog

Perhaps the most interesting characters represented here are those from the Mario Bros. universe of games, because characters like Mario and Luigi have certainly gone through some interesting changes! From their debut in the arcades in 1983 through now, they’ve gone through costume changes, have seen changes to their power ups, and most importantly, have just provided us with some super fun games over this time.

To you, which of the notable gaming characters from this infographic have gone through the most interesting changes over the years?