Earlier this week, Super Mario 3D Land was released for Nintendo 3DS. And while gaming enthusiasts are certainly happy with the new Super Mario Bros. game, PETA has got a bone to pick. So what's PETA's problem with our favorite Italian game character?
Throughout Super Mario 3D Land, Mario wears a Tanooki suit in order to fly and utilize spin attacks. According to Mashable, "PETA says that when Mario dons a Tanooki suit in the game, he’s giving the green light to would-be fur wearers." Apparently, in real life, tanuki, or raccoon dogs, are often skinned alive for their fur. PETA asserts that Mario is telling gamers that wearing fur is OK.
Others argue that "Since tanukis hold a place in Japanese folklore associated with good fortune, it could be argued that Mario is simply harnessing the spirit of the animal." Some have even imprinted the image of Mario in his getup on promotional t-shirts to celebrate the good luck charm.
What do you think -- is PETA right in its fight against Mario's Tanooki outfit? Or should Mario be allowed to wear fur?
5ef5f78e-027b-47e3-b9f2-362df7c49432|0|.0