Video Gaming Has a Problem With Jumping Realism, and It’s Mario’s Fault

Humans as a species are not actually very good at jumping, but you wouldn’t know that if you looked at video games. And not just platformers, either; even the most realism-driven games sometimes allow players to bounce off the walls like it ain’t no thing.  So why is this such a pervasive mechanic? According to PBS Game/Show, it all points back to Super Mario Bros.—and, of course, a heavy dose of wish fulfillment.

Previously in Game/Show

• Is Minecraft Saving the World From Sheltered Children?
• Who Are the Greatest Female Video Game Characters? Game/Show Has a List
• PBS Game/Show Host Jamin Warren Asks If Net Neutrality Is Bad for Gamers

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