Nintendo’s advertising is generally all over the place, which probably has something to do with the fact they want everyone to play their video games. It isn’t a bad plan, but the trick is trying to market to such a diverse crowd. This idea is put on full display with NintendoUK’s latest ad, featuring Kim Cattrall channeling her Samantha Jones character from Sex and the City, who looks to have taken over at this point.

The ad has sparked all sorts of reactions across the web. Some are finding it humorous, while others are a little weirded out at how a smidge of titillation is being used to sell a Mario game (this author included, but hey, ladies like the Tanooki). Some “core” gamer heads are exploding that someone from this demographic is being used to sell Super Mario, while the people with too much time on their hands are upset that she pronounces it “Marry-O“.

As someone who’s been playing video games for over 20 years, it’s just crazy to think of where the road has led in terms of who video games are being marketed to, and how the ad campaigns have changed. At one point, Mario was more recognized by children than Mickey Mouse, and now Nintendo is trying to use an actress’ characterization of a role, which was responsible for saying, “The good ones screw you, the bad ones screw you, and the rest don’t know how to screw you.”

Signs and wonders.

*Goes out to buy Tanooki Suit*

As an added bonus, here are some of the latest and all time greatest Nintendo ads.