This weekend was the second Mario Marathon, that was put on to raise awareness for Penny Arcades child’s play charity. During the even they managed to raised almost 30,000 dollars, which almost made them a triple platinum sponsor. To a lot of us 10,000 dollars is a lot of money, but to raise almost 30,000 is amazing. So I asked them how they felt about what they had done and about the amount they raised.
This is what they had to say…
I find it amazing how charitable and motivated the gaming community is. Something as simple as playing a few games can unite gamers from around the world in supporting a good cause. Through the Mario Marathon, video games brought enjoyment to over 150,000 unique viewers this year. If video games can do that, then I think every child, sick or not, should have an opportunity to experience them.
– The Mario Marathon Team.
I would like to take a look back at the marathon as a whole though. With any marathon there are sometimes hiccups, time alone with you and the viewers, celebration, tiredness, and finally more celebration/amazement.
Although the gaming has stopped now, after nearly 90+ hours of hard core complete Mario stage running and coin grabbing. It’s still not to late to donate if you want.
Be sure to thank the Mario Team for doing a positive contribution to society, showing that games and gamers can help those who need it.
They ended up playing for over 95 hours I think. I stayed up to watch them finish. Great Marathon! For the children!!!
just updated the time to 90+.
I don't want to be the party killer but don't you think it is better to pay that money to cure them than pay to give them Wii to play whiling feeling ill? This money is to buy them videogames right?
@kingmohd84: A lot of money is spent on research looking for cures, but that money usually doesn't help people who are sick *right now*. For children (and adults) who are forced to spend days or weeks in a hospital, having some form of enjoyment can be a tremendous asset. Some studies have even proven that happy patients heal faster! So donating money to provide sick children with an escape from the pain and drudgery of hospital life really isn't so bad.