There's nothing I like more than an excuse to talk about the things I love, and MAR10 Day gives me just that! My love for gaming goes way back to when my brother and I got a Nintendo 64 for Christmas as kids. We spent countless hours racing in Mario Kart, exploring giant worlds, and arguing about whose turn it was next.
Fast forward a few years and not much has changed. I still love gaming just as much. The only difference now is that sometimes when I’m browsing art for the site, I catch myself thinking… “Wow, this reminds of -insert game title here-”. So in honor of Mario Day, I thought it would be fun to share a few pieces from our collection that instantly remind me of some of my favorite games. Lets get into it.
Donkey Kong 64
Jungle scenes always take me right back to Donkey Kong 64. That game was my first view into a magical world of bright jungle chaos. Any time I see big leafy tropical art like this, my brain immediately goes back to running through the jungle looking for my monkey friends. Also I'm including a banana piece just because. Ohhhhh banana.
Animal Crossing
Animal Crossing is one of those games that just makes your brain relax. You log in, water your flowers, chat with your villagers, maybe catch a fish or two, and suddenly two hours have disappeared. The starry sky piece instantly gives me Celeste vibes from the game. I can almost imagine sitting on a cliff on my island watching the stars while waiting for a meteor shower. And the hedgehog plant parent piece feels like a gentle reminder to actually water your flowers… because if you want those hybrid flowers to appear, the watering can has to come out.
My Time at Sandrock
Anytime I see dreamy desert landscapes I immediately think about My Time at Sandrock. If you’ve played it, you know exactly what I mean. That dusty desert town, the cozy workshop life, gathering materials, building machines, and somehow losing entire evenings to crafting projects. Let’s just say 200 hours of my life have been well-spent in dreamy desert settings, and I have no regrets. These desert scenes feel like they belong right outside my workshop in Sandrock.
Portal 2
Portal 2 makes it in the list because any time I see circles I'm drawn back into the heated arguments that ultimately left this co-op game unfinished for the sake of my relationship. There's nothing like trying to solve physics puzzles with another person when both of you are convinced you’re the smartest one in the room, and all while a sassy robot voice mocks you. But if this is your jam I recommend these abstract pieces.
Tiny Bookshop
If you love cozy games and books, Tiny Bookshop is basically therapy in video game form. It’s one of those gentle peaceful games where the whole point is slowing down, organizing books, and enjoying the calm moment. No dragons, no explosions, just cozy vibes. These art pieces give me that exact same feeling. Warm shelves, soft colors, and the kind of peaceful atmosphere that makes you want to grab a cup of tea and settle in with a good book.
Games and Art: A Beautiful Combination
The funny thing is, video games and art really aren’t that different. Both create worlds. Both set a mood. And sometimes a single image can instantly bring back memories of exploring a place you loved spending time in. So this Mario Day I’ll probably do what I always do. Play a little Mario, feel a little nostalgia, and maybe decorate my gaming space with a few more art pieces that remind me of my favorite games. Catch you in the next level my friends!
