The Story of Princess Peach and Bowser | The Settings and History Behind the Repeated Kidnapping Drama

One of the essential elements when discussing the Mario series is the relationship between Princess Peach and Bowser. Since the original Super Mario Brothers in 1985 until now, Bowser's repeated kidnappings of Princess Peach have become a hallmark of the series. However, behind this seemingly simple structure lies a story setting that has evolved over time along with the characters' deep backgrounds. In this article, we will unravel over 35 years of Mario series history, thoroughly explaining the changes in the story of Princess Peach and Bowser and the settings hidden within their relationship.

The Basic Setting of Princess Peach and Bowser

To understand the story of Princess Peach and Bowser, it is crucial to first grasp the basic settings of both characters and their roles in the Mario series. In this section, we will take an in-depth look at Princess Peach, who reigns as the Princess of the Mushroom Kingdom, and Bowser, who reigns as the Great Demon King, as well as the structure of the repeated kidnapping drama.

Who is Princess Peach? | The Role of the Princess of the Mushroom Kingdom

Princess Peach is the young princess who governs the Mushroom Kingdom, the setting of the Mario series. Her real name is Peach Toadstool, and she is known as the representative heroine of the series, characterized by her long golden hair and pink dress. She is a ruler who protects the peace and prosperity of the Mushroom Kingdom, possessing a gentle and mild-mannered personality, deeply cherished by her subjects, the Toads. She is also said to have magical powers, displaying special abilities such as healing magic or emotional power in some works. There is also a setting where she is Mario's childhood friend, creating a relationship of trust where Mario will always come to her aid when she is in danger.

Who is Bowser? | The True Identity and Goals of the Great Demon King

Bowser is the greatest antagonist in the Mario series, reigning as the Great Demon King of the Koopa species. His full name is Bowser Koopa, and he is characterized by his massive physique, sharp-spiked shell, and the flames he breathes, boasting overwhelming combat power. He commands minions known as the Bowser Army, with various underlings such as Koopa Troopas, Goombas, and Hammer Bros. While he has a rough and short-tempered personality, he also has a side as a doting father to his son, Bowser Jr. His goals vary across works but primarily center around the conquest of the Mushroom Kingdom or the capture of Princess Peach, making him Mario's greatest rival.

The Basic Structure of the Repeated Kidnapping Drama

Many works in the Mario series adopt the basic storyline of "Bowser kidnaps Princess Peach, and Mario goes to rescue her." This structure is simple yet effective, forming the core of game design that gives players a clear sense of purpose. Bowser traps Princess Peach in a castle or fortress, while Mario clears stages and ultimately reaches Bowser to defeat him and rescue Princess Peach, establishing a staple pattern in the series. This repeated kidnapping drama transcends mere narrative framework, becoming the very identity of the Mario series.

The History of Princess Peach's Kidnapping in Mario Franchise

Throughout the 35-year history of the Mario series, the kidnapping of Princess Peach has been depicted in various forms. As gaming technology has evolved over time, so too have the storytelling techniques, leading to diverse variations of this classic plot. Here, we will examine how the kidnapping narrative has evolved by following the key works of the series in chronological order.

Super Mario Bros. (1985) | The Beginning of All

Released in 1985, the original Super Mario Bros. serves as the origin of the Princess Peach kidnapping narrative. In this game, Bowser invades the Mushroom Kingdom, transforming the citizens into blocks and other objects, and Princess Peach is kidnapped as the only one who can break the spell. At that time, gameplay was prioritized over narrative, with only a brief background explanation in the manual and minimal story depiction in the game itself. At the end of each world, an enemy in the form of Bowser awaited, and players would defeat them by dropping them into lava or cutting down bridges with an axe. Finally, in the last stage, players could rescue Princess Peach, showcasing a simple yet effective story progression.

Super Mario 64 (1996) | The Story Evolved with 3D

Released in 1996 for the NINTENDO64, Super Mario 64, as the first fully 3D title in the series, brought significant evolution to storytelling. This game begins with Princess Peach inviting Mario to her castle for cake. However, when Mario arrives, Bowser has already taken over the castle and used the power of the Power Stars to trap Peach and the castle's inhabitants within paintings. Utilizing the 3D space, a new experience emerged, where the story progresses while exploring the castle, and Princess Peach's voice was implemented for the first time. During the final battle with Bowser, visual enhancements show Princess Peach trapped behind stained glass, significantly enriching the visual presentation.

Super Mario Sunshine (2002) | The Introduction of Bowser Jr.

In the 2002 GameCube title, Super Mario Sunshine, Bowser Jr., the son of Bowser, makes his debut, adding a new element to the kidnapping narrative. The story is set on the resort island of Isle Delfino, where Bowser Jr. disguises himself as Mario, spreads chaos across the island, and tells Princess Peach, "You're my mom," before kidnapping her. This scenario suggests that Bowser had introduced Peach as his mother to Bowser Jr., revealing a new motivation that goes beyond mere conquest to build a family relationship. Ultimately, Bowser Jr. learns the truth from Bowser but still tries to abduct Princess Peach, creating an impressive scene that depicts the bond and complex emotions between parent and child.

Super Mario Galaxy (2007) | A Universe-Scale Kidnapping

Released in 2007 for the Wii, Super Mario Galaxy scaled Bowser's ambitions from the ground to the universe.

In this work, Bowser leads a massive fleet resembling a giant UFO and abducts Princess Peach along with Peach Castle to space, aiming to build his Galactic Empire at the center of the universe using the power of the Power Stars. Princess Peach is imprisoned in Bowser's castle floating in space, and Mario embarks on a grand adventure to rescue her while traversing various planets. A similar pattern is followed in the sequel, Super Mario Galaxy 2, where the cosmic kidnapping drama has established itself as a new standard in the Mario series. The kidnapping drama, adorned with some of the series' most beautiful visuals and grand music, has become a story that resonates with many fans.

Super Mario Odyssey (2017) | A New Development with Weddings

Released on the Nintendo Switch in 2017, Super Mario Odyssey is a work that brought innovative developments to the kidnapping drama. From the outset, it is made clear that Bowser's purpose in kidnapping Princess Peach is to have a wedding. Bowser travels around the world, stealing items necessary for the wedding (tiaras, dresses, bouquets, etc.), and ultimately tries to hold a grand wedding on the moon. This setting suggests that Bowser's feelings for Princess Peach are not merely possessiveness, but rather his own form of "affection." However, the most striking aspect is the conclusion, where Princess Peach, rescued by Mario, rejects proposals from both Bowser and Mario and chooses to embark on a journey alone of her own volition. This development became a topic of discussion as it gave Peach's character a new sense of agency.

Statistical Analysis of Kidnapping Probability | An Astonishing Number of 87.5%

Analyzing the main titles of the Mario series reveals that the probability of Princess Peach being kidnapped by Bowser is an astounding 87.5%. Out of 16 main titles, Princess Peach is kidnapped in 14 of them, and only a few titles like Super Mario 3D World and Super Mario Bros. 2 (USA version) do not feature her abduction. This overwhelming kidnapping rate illustrates how essential the relationship between Princess Peach and Bowser is to the core of the Mario series.

Change in Bowser's Motivation | From Conquest to Affection

Bowser's motivation for kidnapping Princess Peach has significantly evolved over the history of the series. In the early works, the kidnapping was depicted simply as part of world conquest, but it gradually progressed into actions that encompass more complex emotions. This section will closely examine the changes in Bowser's motivations through the ages and how his psychology and objectives have been portrayed.

Early Works | A Hostage for World Conquest

In the original Super Mario Bros. and early 1990s titles, Bowser's motivation was clearly "world conquest." Princess Peach served as an important hostage for Bowser to dominate the Mushroom Kingdom, and the strategic objective of completely controlling the kingdom by sealing her magical powers was described in manuals and other materials. In Super Mario Bros. 3, Bowser transformed local kings into animals and undertook conquest activities aimed at stealing the wand needed to reverse that magic, with the kidnapping of Princess Peach depicted as an extension of this. During this period, Bowser was portrayed as a purely evil character, and personal motivations such as romantic feelings were not evident. It was an era that emphasized him solely as a conqueror seeking power and territory.

Mid-Term Works | The Emergence of Bowser's Affection for Princess Peach

Since Super Mario 64 in 1996, there have been subtle changes in Bowser's motivations. In this work, Bowser takes over Princess Peach's castle and locks her inside, with a portrayal that conveys a sense of possessiveness, expressing a desire to keep her close rather than merely treating her as a hostage. In the 2000 Paper Mario, Bowser uses the phrase "to make Princess Peach live in my castle," indicating a preference for personal feelings over conquest. Particularly in 2002's Super Mario Sunshine, the development where he lies to his son Bowser Jr. by saying "Princess Peach is Mama" during the kidnapping clearly shows Bowser's desire to welcome Princess Peach as part of his family. From this period, it can be considered that elements similar to romantic feelings began to appear in Bowser's actions.

Recent Works | Complex Emotions and Comedic Depictions

Since the 2010s, Bowser's feelings for Princess Peach have been depicted more explicitly and comically. In the 2017 Super Mario Odyssey, it portrays Bowser collecting wedding supplies from around the world to hold a grand wedding. In this work, although aggressive, Bowser attempts to formally welcome Princess Peach in the form of "official marriage," expressing a serious feeling distinct from mere kidnapping. However, ultimately rejected by Princess Peach, the sight of Bowser breaking down in tears on the moon showcases the depth of his emotions while also highlighting his somewhat comical and endearing character traits. In recent Mario series games, there has been a growing trend to portray Bowser not just as a simple villain but as a character with complex emotions, with his feelings for Princess Peach playing an important role in that.

What is Bowser's True Objective?

Ultimately, what is Bowser's true objective? According to Nintendo's official view, Bowser's motivations vary by work, and there isn't a single clear definition. It is thought that multiple motivations, such as world domination, a romantic affection for Princess Peach, ruling the Mushroom Kingdom, or simply a competitive spirit against Mario, intertwine in complex ways. Among fans, interpretations vary widely, ranging from the theory that "Bowser truly loves Princess Peach" to the idea that "the kidnapping is just a game to enjoy competing with Mario." This ambiguity is part of Bowser's character charm, leaving room for each player to freely imagine.

The Evolution of Princess Peach's Role | From the Rescued Princess to the Fighting Heroine

Princess Peach's character image has significantly changed over the course of the series' history. From an early depiction as a "princess merely waiting for rescue," she has gradually evolved into a proactive heroine who sometimes fights by herself. This change reflects the evolving representation of women over the times and the diversification of game design. In this section, we will take a closer look at how Princess Peach's role has evolved.

Passive Heroine Image (Early to Mid-Period)

From the original Super Mario Bros. in 1985 to works from the 1990s, Princess Peach was depicted as the archetypal "captured princess."

Her role in the game is to wait to be rescued by Mario, serving as both the destination and reward for the player's adventure. In this era, Princess Peach is depicted as a passive character who lacks the power to change her situation, only expressing gratitude by kissing Mario after he rescues her. This reflects the typical image of heroines in the gaming industry at the time, following the classical character type of 'princess' found in fantasy works. However, even during this period, she appears as one of the selectable characters in Super Mario USA, where some games offered her different roles.

Super Princess Peach (2005) | Princess Peach as the Protagonist

Released in 2005 for Nintendo DS, Super Princess Peach revolutionized the role of Princess Peach. In this game, the roles are reversed, with Mario and Luigi being captured by Bowser, and Princess Peach embarking on an adventure to rescue them. She utilizes four emotional powers—joy, sadness, anger, and calm—while wielding an umbrella-like weapon called the 'Kassu' to defeat her enemies. This game clearly shows that Princess Peach is not merely a 'damsel in distress' but has the strength to fight as a heroine. With its unique gameplay system, it succeeds in bringing out a new charm of the character Peach.

After Super Mario 3D World | As a Playable Character

In 2013's Super Mario 3D World, Princess Peach became one of the selectable playable characters alongside Mario, Luigi, and Toad. Unusually, she is not kidnapped in this game and participates in the adventure as an ally. Peach has the ability to float in the air and showcases unique abilities different from other characters. This trend continues in later titles, increasing opportunities to play as Peach in the Super Mario Maker series and Super Mario Bros. Wonder. As a playable character, Princess Peach transforms from a mere 'rescue target' to an 'adventure companion,' providing players with a new experience to enjoy the game from her perspective.

Independence in Mario Odyssey | A Princess Who Makes Her Own Choices

2017's Super Mario Odyssey can be said to be the work that brought the most significant change to the characterization of Princess Peach. In the conclusion of this game, the rescued Peach receives proposals from both Bowser and Mario but declines both, stating that she 'wants to travel alone for a while' and boards a spaceship of her own accord. This development clearly indicates that Princess Peach is not someone who needs to be protected; she is an independent woman who decides her own life. In the post-ending bonus mode, Princess Peach is depicted traveling alone around the world, expressing a new side of herself. This portrayal has been highly praised by many fans and has become a symbolic scene representing the evolution of the character Peach.

Reflections on the Relationship Between Princess Peach and Bowser

The relationship between Princess Peach and Bowser possesses a complexity that cannot be simply described as an 'antagonistic relationship.'

In the main series, they are clear enemies, yet in the spin-off works, they often co-star and sometimes even cooperate. In this section, we will examine the relationship between the two, which has been debated among fans for many years, from various angles.

Is it really a hostile relationship? | Co-starring in spin-off works

In spin-off works such as the Mario Kart series and the Mario Party series, Princess Peach and Bowser often co-star, competing in races and mini-games. In these works, the antagonistic relationship from the main series is hardly mentioned, and there is even a friendly atmosphere. In Mario Tennis and Mario Golf, it is even possible for Bowser and Princess Peach to team up in doubles. This setting can be seen as a separate dimension from their relationship in the main series, but on the other hand, it is also possible to interpret that “the antagonism is not that serious.” Among fans, some consider that Bowser's kidnappings are not true acts of hostility, but rather a kind of stylized beauty or gamesmanship, and the co-starring in spin-offs is sometimes discussed as evidence of this.

What does Princess Peach think of Bowser?

What Princess Peach thinks of Bowser is rarely clearly expressed within the works. Her typical response after being rescued is “Thank you, Mario,” and there are no feelings expressed towards Bowser. However, in the ending of Super Mario Odyssey, while she rejects Bowser's proposal, she does not completely push him away, but gently declines him instead. Additionally, in some works like the Paper Mario series, while she may seem exasperated by Bowser's actions, there is no complete hatred observed. Considering Princess Peach has a kind and mild demeanor, she might recognize Bowser as a “troublesome presence” without harboring deep hatred. This ambiguous relationship gives their story a unique charm.

The essence of the story that Nintendo intends

Nintendo has adopted a policy of not solidifying detailed settings for the story of the Mario series, maintaining simple and universal themes. Shigeru Miyamoto has stated in past interviews that “Mario is like an actor in a play, where roles change in each work,” and the relationship between Princess Peach and Bowser is designed to change flexibly with each iteration. Its essence is a simple tale of good versus evil, with clear motivations that make it easy for players to understand their objectives. While deep interpretations are possible upon reflection, ultimately, it is a framework for enjoying gameplay, with greater priority given to the most suitable narrative development for each specific work over strict consistency in settings.

Conclusion | Reasons why the story of Princess Peach and Bowser is beloved

The story of Princess Peach and Bowser has been at the core of the Mario series for nearly 40 years since its birth in 1985. Why has this recurring kidnapping drama continued to be loved for so long? The reason lies in the exquisite balance between simplicity and depth. It is a clear story of “saving the princess” that everyone, from children to adults, can understand, yet as time has passed, the characters have evolved, continuously allowing for new interpretations of their relationship.

Bowser's motivation changing from a desire for conquest to romantic feelings, and Princess Peach growing from a passive heroine to an independent woman, reflects the changing values of society.

Moreover, the relationship between Princess Peach and Bowser is not strictly defined, allowing each player to freely imagine and discuss it. Questions like, "Does Bowser really love Princess Peach?" "What does Princess Peach think of Bowser?" and "Why does the same pattern repeat itself so many times?" do not have clear answers. However, this ambiguity stimulates fans' creativity and serves as a source for fan creations and analyses.

In future Mario series, Princess Peach and Bowser's story will likely continue to show new developments. The independence of Princess Peach and Bowser's multifaceted emotional expressions, as demonstrated in Super Mario Odyssey, may be further deepened in upcoming works. At the same time, the basic structure of the traditional "kidnapping drama" should be inherited while being transformed. This timeless yet always fresh appeal of the story is one reason why the Mario series remains beloved around the world. The story of Princess Peach and Bowser will continue to provide motivation for adventure and bring smiles and surprises to many players.