Bowser's ready to listen and share

Wreck-it Ralph may have been released in North America way back in early November, but it's not long since it arrived in movie theatres in the UK, bringing its own brand of classic gaming cameos and animated hilarity. For retro gamers and Nintendo fans alike the movie has plenty of references to pick up, including an appearance by Mario's arch-nemesis, Bowser.

But what of the moustachioed hero himself? His absence in the movie wasn't down to licensing issues — again, Bowser was in the movie — but due to director Rich Moore not finding the right moment for the character to appear. In a refreshing example of putting quality above quick marketability, Moore explained to Digital Spy that he had wanted Mario to feature, and would strive to find a spot for the mascot in a potential sequel.

Over the course of developing the story I was always looking for the perfect moment or scene to include Mario.

But it had to be organic, it had to feel like [the scene] was made for him and unfortunately as we were developing the story and taking it to where it needed to go, that moment never made itself clear.

If we're lucky enough to have a sequel then we'll create that moment that's perfect for [Mario].

Whether a sequel arrives is likely to be down to the money generated by this first film, though animated films and video games seem like a good fit for success.

Have you seen Wreck-It Ralph, and if so what did you think? Is a Mario cameo high on your list for a potential sequel, or are there other game characters you'd rather see first? Share your cameo appearance dreams in the comments below.

[source digitalspy.co.uk]