Pikmin and R.O.B. join the cast of The Super Mario Galaxy Movie in a new promotional video, marking the second and third non-Mario Nintendo characters confirmed for the animated sequel.
The plant-like creatures appear around the five-second mark of a Twitter spot released March 17, standing alongside returning Mario characters as they prepare for their "close up." The Pikmin cameo follows earlier confirmation that R.O.B. the robotic accessory from Nintendo Entertainment System, would appear in merchandise and make a blink-and-you'll-miss-it appearance in the film.
Both characters originate from franchises outside Mario's universe but share creator Shigeru Miyamoto, who serves as producer on Illumination's Super Mario movies.
Nintendo's strategy appears to use the "galaxy" theme to incorporate characters from across its gaming catalog. With The Super Mario Galaxy Movie projected for a $160 million five-day opening weekend in the United States starting April 1, these crossovers could test audience interest in expanded Nintendo cinematic projects.
"I just felt like bombarded by all the references, and every single frame is just filled with references,"
said Larson, who voices Rosalina. She confirmed appearances from game elements like the honeybee planet boss while promising more surprises.
The original Super Mario Bros. Movie grossed over $1 billion globally in 2023, demonstrating significant appetite for Nintendo adaptations. Current rumors suggest potential Donkey Kong-focused projects alongside the already-confirmed Legend of Zelda live-action film.
Pikmin debuted in 2001 with four main series games released through 2023's Pikmin 4. Their inclusion alongside R.O.B. suggests Nintendo may use The Super Mario Galaxy Movie as a canonical entry point for broader franchise integration without disrupting established Mario narratives.
Chris Pratt returns as Mario alongside Charlie Day's Luigi, Jack Black's Bowser, and Anya Taylor-Joy's Princess Peach. New additions include Donald Glover as Yoshi and Benny Safdie joining as Bowser Jr. expanding a roster that already features cameos from Mouser and Wart.
