Google Maps has integrated a quirky new feature into its mobile application. In line with the recent celebration of Mario Day, the web mapping service is bringing Super Mario riding his go-kart as a substitute to the navigation arrow whenever the app is in use while driving.
To make this happen, Google has teamed up with Nintendo, the maker of the legendary Super Mario video games that ruled during the 1980s to 1990s. This special integration is called ‘Mario Time’ and has been rolled out globally on March 10, coinciding with the annual celebration of Mario Day (March 10 when abbreviated to Mar10 may possibly be read as ‘Mario’ by some, hence the designation of the date).
To use this new and limited feature, a user must first update his/her Google Maps app through the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android). Use Google Maps as usual. After keying in your destination, tap ‘directions.’ There will be a question mark button beside the ‘start’ icon. Press it to see Mario popping up on the screen. Take it as a queue that you are ready to navigate and drive.
It can be another fun diversion to enjoy daily traffic in Metro Manila and other cities nationwide. However, Mario Time is not here to stay. You can enjoy Google Maps with Mario replacing the navigation arrow only until Friday, March 16.
Once you get into it, you can also try another hidden trick: tap the question mark icon exactly 100 times to hear a 1-UP sound, which is reminiscent of the sound when you play Nintento games.
Google Maps integrated Pac-Man game in April 2017.
This is not the first time for Google Maps appearance to be customized in line with a celebration. During April Fools’ Day in 2017, the Google Maps navigation arrow turned into Ms. Pac-Man. Before that, the Google Maps position market was transformed into either an X-Wing back or a TIE fighter in 2015 to mark the release of the Hollywood movie ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens.’