November 15, 2025
Super Mario Manga Creator Kazuki Motoyama Passes Away at 69
Beloved Super Mario Manga Creator Kazuki Motoyama Dies at 69
Kazuki Motoyama, the legendary manga artist behind Kodansha’s Super Mario comics, has died at the age of 69. His sister, Risa Motoyama, confirmed the sad news via her Instagram account. Fans worldwide are mourning the loss of the creative mind who brought Mario and friends to life on the pages of manga.
Who Was Kazuki Motoyama?
Birth: April 12, 1956
Career Start: Late 1970s as a manga artist
Notable Work: Super Mario manga series (1988–1998)
Publisher: Kodansha, featured in Comic BomBom
Signature Style: Humor, self-insert characters, and unique adaptations of the Mario games
Motoyama’s Super Mario manga was more than a game adaptation—it mixed outrageous comedy, meta-humor, and playful storytelling. Fans loved his personal touch, especially his pen-name Mototin, under which he often portrayed himself in his comics.
Motoyama’s Legacy Beyond Super Mario
Even after Kodansha lost the Mario license, Motoyama continued creating manga, including his original spin-off Kinoppe-chan Forever, which started in 2019. His work inspired generations of gamers and manga fans alike, keeping the spirit of Mario alive in new, imaginative ways.
Community and Fan Tributes
His sister, Risa Motoyama, posted: “My brother passed away. Thank you to everyone who helped me during his life…”
Social media and gaming communities erupted with tributes, remembering how Motoyama’s work shaped childhood memories.
Fans are revisiting his manga, celebrating the laughter and creativity that defined his career.
Why Kazuki Motoyama Mattered
1. Cultural Impact: He brought Nintendo’s iconic characters to life in a new medium, shaping the way fans interacted with Mario outside video games.
2. Artistic Style: Expressive, playful, and daring; his storytelling often broke the fourth wall with humor and self-references.
3. Enduring Legacy: His influence extends beyond Super Mario, inspiring manga artists and game enthusiasts worldwide.
Final Thoughts
Kazuki Motoyama’s passing marks the end of an era for manga and gaming culture. His Super Mario manga continues to be celebrated as a creative masterpiece, blending humor, imagination, and heart.
Motoyama may be gone, but his legacy will continue to inspire both long-time fans and new generations discovering his work for the first time.
Rest in peace, Kazuki Motoyama (1956–2025).
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