Forbidden Designs: Nintendo's Secret Mario Illustration Manual Leaked Online

Perfect branding isn't an accident—it's enforced. A few weeks ago, an internal document titled the 'Mario Family Illustration Manual' was uploaded to the Internet Archive, revealing the bizarre and strict rules that keep Nintendo's mascot looking exactly right.

Inside the Nintendo Mario Illustration Manual

According to reports by Boing Boing, the manual acts as a strict guidance for internal designers and marketers. It explicitly warns them not to mess with the official illustrations of Mario and his friends. While Nintendo is famous for its stiff brand management, seeing the specific technical limits placed on their characters offers a rare glimpse into the corporate machinery behind the magic.

The Mystery of the Prohibited Marios

The manual's most captivating section features the so-called 'Prohibited Marios.' These are visual examples of what not to do: off-model proportions, incorrect facial expressions, or lighting that deviates from the Nintendo standard. It's a fascinating look at how a multi-billion dollar company maintains a consistent identity across decades of games, merchandise, and media.