When Will Super Mario Run for iOS Launch and How Much Will It Cost? Here’s What We Know

Personally, one of the most exciting parts of Apple’s September 7th iPhone 7 / Watch Series 2 launch event, wasn’t particularly those two devices. Perhaps the most exciting revelation from Apple’s special event was showcased by Nintendo’s own Shigeru Miyamoto — the man who brought to life Nintendo’s iconic “Mario” character, which happens to be the main character of Nintendo’s upcoming, full-fledged game for iOS — Super Mario Run.

Dec 15, 2016 update: Today, Nintendo released Super Mario Run as a “Free” game in Apple’s iOS app store. However, if you really want to play all levels, get ready to pay $9.99. The word “freemium“, means that the game is free to download with an option to purchase in-app credits, more levels, or other premium features. This should answer your question: “How much does Super Mario Run cost?” or “How much is Super Mario Run?”

Adorned in his iconic red hat, thick pot belly, equally thick mustache, and distinct Italian accent in tow, our good friend Mario will take center stage in Super Mario Run. As he continuously runs swiftly towards the right of the screen, players will tap, tap, tap, away, ultimately assisting Mario jump (at the player’s discretion) in order to collect coins and avoid the myriad of obstacles scattered along his path.

Super Mario Run will be Nintendo’s first major release — featuring a real, internationally recognized character — on the iOS mobile platform. Yes, there are other Nintendo games already running on iOS — but Super Mario Run is the Japanese gaming-giant’s first true foray into the concept of console gaming on a mobile device. I anticipate that the game will be immersive, fun, and somewhat lengthy — very similar to, though obviously somewhat different than playing a full-fledged title on one of Nintendo’s gaming consoles.

So, if Super Mario Run is going to be such a deep and immersive, console-quality game, doesn’t that mean the app would cost a console game price? Well, here’s the thing: first of all, as of right now, we know only that Nintendo will be releasing Super Mario Run by the end of the year. The game will be free to download from the App Store, and free to play (up until a certain level). Given that the app is anticipated to be as comprehensive as a console game, I’d say it’s very reasonable to assume that after your free time of playing has elapsed, Nintendo will ask if you’d like to continue, by forking over $35 to $40 or so.

I know the number may seem steep to a lot of you, but I suppose you have to figure that what you’re getting is an actual game. On the other hand, Nintendo could make a real killing on Super Mario Run if the company priced the game more affordably, perhaps around $20 — or possibly even less. I truly think that such a move would sweeten the pot for a wider audience of die-hard fans and would-be gamers waiting to get their hands on the title.

What would you pay for a copy of Super Mario Run? Let us know in the comments!