Super Mario Odyssey concludes with an unexpected twist in the traditional Mario-Peach-Bowser dynamic, seeing both Mario and Bowser vying for Princess Peach's affection after their escape from the moon.
Upon the defeat of Bowser on the Moon and the rescue of Princess Peach, the final scene unfolds with the three central characters—Mario, Peach, and Bowser—making their escape. Mario and Peach are reunited, seemingly bringing a classic heroic close to their adventure. However, Bowser awakens from his defeat and the situation quickly escalates as both Mario and Bowser begin to openly fight over Princess Peach, each attempting to earn her affection. Peach, in a surprising display of independence, rejects both of them and chooses to travel on her own, leaving them behind on the Moon.
Key Moments in the Ending Sequence
The ending of Super Mario Odyssey is memorable for subverting expectations and highlighting Peach's agency.
- Escape from the Moon: After their epic showdown, Mario, Peach, and Bowser, along with Cappy and Tiara, find themselves attempting to escape the collapsing Moon.
- Reunion and Conflict: Once safely away, Bowser quickly recovers, leading to an immediate and comical struggle between him and Mario to impress Peach. This scene deviates significantly from previous game endings, focusing on a more personal rivalry for her attention rather than just a simple rescue.
- Peach's Decision: Instead of choosing either suitor, Princess Peach firmly rejects both Mario and Bowser's advances. She decides to embark on her own journey, emphasizing her independence and desire to explore the world on her own terms, accompanied only by Tiara.
Character Actions in the Climax
| Character | Action at Ending |
|---|---|
| Mario | Escapes with Peach and Bowser, fights Bowser for Peach's affection, ultimately rejected by Peach. |
| Peach | Escapes, reunited with Mario, sought after by both Mario and Bowser, chooses independence and leaves them. |
| Bowser | Escapes, wakes up, fights Mario for Peach's affection, ultimately rejected by Peach. |
This conclusion provides a fresh perspective on the long-standing narrative, leaving players to ponder the future of these iconic characters and introducing a strong, self-reliant depiction of Princess Peach.
