Koopa (species): Difference between revisions

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(Since Rocky is no longer explicitly treated as one and there are other shelled creatures now, reorganizing a bit. We will see what the future holds on this matter.)
 
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{{species-infobox
{{distinguish|Koopa Troopa}}
|title=Koopa
{{about|the Koopa species as a whole|other uses of the word "Koopa"|[[Koopa]]}}
|image=[[File:KoopatroopaNSMBU.png|200px|'''Koopa Troopa''']]<br>A [[Koopa Troopa]], one of the most common types of '''Koopa'''.
{{species infobox
|full_name=Koopa
|image=[[File:SuperMarioParty KoopaTroopa.png|200x200px]]<br>A [[Koopa Troopa]], the most common and basic type of Koopa
|expand=expandable
|first_appearance=''[[Super Mario Bros.]]'' ([[List of games by date#1985|1985]])
|sub_species=[[Beach Koopa]]<br>[[Boomerang Bro.]]<br>[[Buzzy Beetle]]<br>[[Chargin' Chuck]]<br>[[Dry Bones]]<br>[[Dull Bones]]<br>[[Electrokoopa]]<br>[[Fire Bro.]]<br>[[Hammer Bro.]]<br>[[Ice Bro.]]<br>[[Koopa Paratroopa]]<br>[[Koopa Striker]]<br>[[Koopa Troopa]]<br>[[Koopatrol]]<br>[[Lakitu]]<br>[[Mad Koopa]]<br>[[Magikoopa]]<br>[[Rocky Wrench]] (formerly)<br>[[Shellcreeper]]<br>[[Snooze-A-Koopa]]<br>[[Spike]]<br>[[Spike Koopa]]<br>[[Spiny]]<br>[[Super Koopa (enemy)|Super Koopa]]<br>[[Terrapin]]
|latest_appearance=''[[Super Mario Bros. Wonder]]'' ([[List of games by date#2023|2023]])
|notable=[[Boom Boom]]<br>[[Bowser]]<br>[[Bowser Jr.]]<br>[[Koopalings]]<br>[[Koopa Kids]]<br>[[Pom Pom]]<br>[[Koops]]<br>[[Kooper]]
|variant_of=[[Shellcreeper]]
|first_appearance=''[[Mario Bros.]]'' ([[List of Mario games by date#1983|1983]])
|variants=[[Boom Boom]]<br>[[Buzzy Beetle]]<br>[[Chargin' Chuck]]<br>[[Hammer Bro]]<br>[[Koopa (Bowser's species)]]<br>[[Koopa Striker]]<br>[[Koopa Troopa]]<br>[[Lakitu]]<br>[[Magikoopa]]<br>[[Shova]]<br>[[Spike]]<br>[[Spiny]]<br>[[Sumo Bro]]
|latest_appearance=''[[Yoshi's New Island]]'' ([[List of Mario games by date#2014|2014]])
|derived_subjects=[[Rocky Wrench]]<br>[[Yoshi (species)|Yoshi]]
|notable=[[Motley Bossblob]]<br>[[Tutankoopa]]
|collapsed=true
}}
}}
{{quote2|[[Yoshi]]-dear, [[Baby Mario|that baby]] is going to cause disaster to befall the Koopas. So give him here before you accidentally get hurt!|[[Kamek]]|[[Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Island]]}}
'''Koopas''' (once "the Koopa")<ref>''Super Mario Bros.'' English instruction booklet, page 2.</ref> are a category of turtle-like creatures that form the '''Turtle Tribe''' (also known as the '''Koopa clan''' or '''Koopa tribe'''). There are many different types of Koopas, the most common being [[Koopa Troopa]]s; they are specifically named for [[Koopa (Bowser's species)|the species]] that [[Bowser]] belongs to due to an inconsistency in localization.


{{quote|[[Chargin' Chuck|Koopa Football Players]] grabbed [[Princess Peach|the princess!]]|Luigi|Mama Luigi}}
Most Koopas operate in a hierarchy-based grouping system. Bowser is the leader of a large army of [[Bowser's Minions|minions]], which has invaded the [[Mushroom Kingdom]] many times and has control over most of the Koopas in the [[Super Mario (franchise)|''Super Mario'' franchise]], beginning in ''[[Super Mario Bros.]]'', where, according to an interpretation of the story of the game's Japanese manual<ref>[https://www.nintendo.co.jp/clv/manuals/ja/pdf/CLV-P-HAAAJ.pdf ''Super Mario Bros.'' Japanese instruction booklet]. The line in particular is 「強力な魔法を操る大ガメクッパの一族」 which, due to the various meanings of 「の」, can be interpreted as both ''the tribe of the great turtle Koopa who uses powerful magic'' or ''the Koopa tribe, great turtles who use powerful magic''. Retrieved May 10, 2018.</ref> during the English localization that saw ''Koopa'' (クッパ) as the name of the group of turtles instead of the name of Bowser, they were known for their "black magic."<ref>[https://legendsoflocalization.com/media/super-mario-bros/manuals/Super-Mario-Bros-Manual-US.pdf ''Super Mario Bros.'' North American instruction booklet], page 2.</ref> Said interpretation has since been rectified, with ''Koopa'' being acknowledged to be the Japanese name of Bowser,<ref>[https://mario.nintendo.com/history/ ''History'' section of the ''Official Home of Mario'']. Note how the rectified story of ''Super Mario Bros.'' now states ''The Mushroom Kingdom was the peaceful home of the Toads until the day Bowser and his wicked minions invaded. Using powerful magic, Bowser™ transformed the Toads into bricks and quickly conquered the land.'' Retrieved May 10, 2018.</ref> but the concept of ''Koopas'' as a group of turtles in {{wp|Western world|the West}} remains,<ref>[https://mario.nintendo.com/characters/ Bowser's bio in the ''Official Home of Mario''] states ''The king of the Koopas dreams of ruling the Mushroom Kingdom, and only Mario and his brave friends stand in his way!''. Retrieved May 10, 2018.</ref> while [[Nintendo]] of Japan consistently refers to Koopa as the name of Bowser and to the Turtle Tribe (カメ{{ruby|族|ぞく}}) as the group to which the various turtles belong.<ref>As can be seen both by {{media link|SMCE pages 88 89.png|this diagram of the Koopa Troop on pages 88 and 89 of the ''Super Mario Zen Hyakka'' (「スーパーマリオ全百科」, Super Mario Complete Encyclopedia)}} and the [https://www.nintendo.co.jp/character/mario/characters/index.html current bio of Bowser in the ''Mario Portal''].</ref> Many of these same Koopas are members of the Koopa Troop and have different tasks in the organization based on the abilities of their particular class. For example, Koopa Troopas tend to be assigned as basic foot soldiers alongside [[Goomba]]s due to their lack of specialized offensive capabilities, while [[Magikoopa]]s are often given advisory roles due to their magical abilities and gift of foresight.


'''Koopas''' are a race of turtle-like creatures. There are many different types of Koopas, the best-known of which are the [[Koopa Troopa]]s.
However, not all Koopas are allied with Bowser. Some Koopas, such as the Koopa Troopas of [[Koopa Village]], live peacefully inside the borders of the Mushroom Kingdom, while others, such as [[Koopa the Quick]] in ''[[Super Mario 64]]'' and the [[Roving Racers]] in ''[[Super Mario Odyssey]]'', simply hold no allegiance and operate independently.
 
Most Koopas seem to operate in a hierarchy-based grouping system. [[Bowser]] is the leader of the militaristic [[Koopa Troop]], an organization that has attempted to conquer the peaceful [[Mushroom Kingdom]] many times and which has control over most of the Koopas in the ''Mario'' series. Many of these same Koopas are soldiers in this army, and have different tasks in the organization based on the abilities of their particular class. For example, [[Koopa Troopa]]s tend to be assigned as basic foot soldiers alongside [[Goomba]]s due to their lack of special abilities, while [[Magikoopa]]s are often given advisory roles due to their magical abilities and gift of foresight.
 
However, not all Koopas are allied with Bowser. Some Koopas, such as the Koopa Troopas of [[Koopa Village]], live peacefully inside the borders of the Mushroom Kingdom, while others, such as [[Koopa the Quick]] in ''Super Mario 64'', simply hold no allegiance and operate independently.
 
Similar to turtles, Koopas possess shells that are usually a defense mechanism for the reptiles. Unlike turtles, however, the shells are not integrated into their body and more-or-less act as wearable armor/clothing, as evidenced by ''[[Super Mario World]]'' and ''[[Paper Mario]]''.


Koopas in general are based on the [[Shellcreeper]]s from ''[[Mario Bros. (game)|Mario Bros.]]'', as evident by various enemies being tentatively named and designed after Shellcreepers in development documents of ''Super Mario Bros.''<ref>Nintendo (September 14, 2015). [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C73f618-3pk&t=2517s Nintendo Digital Event @ E3 2015]. ''YouTube''. Retrieved October 18, 2021.</ref> ''[[Mario Mania]]'' indicates that Koopa Troopas and [[Koopa Paratroopa]]s were previously Shellcreepers.<ref>M. Arakawa. Nintendo ''Mario Mania'' Player's Guide. Page 13. "''These fighting turtles first appeared in Mario Bros. as Shellcreepers, then became Koopa Troopas and Koopa Paratroopas in the Super Mario Bros. series.''"</ref> At least one source, ''[[Perfect Edition of the Great Mario Character Encyclopedia|Perfect Ban Mario Character Daijiten]]'', lists Shellcreepers among the Turtle Tribe while simultaneously stating that they are the roots originating the whole Turtle Tribe.<ref>''Perfect Ban Mario Character Daijiten''. [https://imgur.com/aNvk8LY Page 55.]</ref> Additionally, ''[[Super Smash Bros. for Wii U]]'' states that Koopa Troopas (referred to simply as "Koopas" in English versions) are apparently evolved from Shellcreepers.<ref>"''The Koopa is apparently an evolved form of this veteran of Mario Bros.''" – Shellcreeper trophy from the NTSC ''Super Smash Bros. for Wii U''</ref><ref>"''A true veteran from way back in Mario Bros., this guy even predates Koopas, which apparently it evolved into.''" – Shellcreeper trophy from the PAL ''Super Smash Bros. for Wii U''</ref><ref>Treat4567 (December 28, 2014). [https://youtu.be/Kjy7Gd4cjrM?t=158 <nowiki>[スマブラWiiU]</nowiki> フィギュア 全716種まとめ]. ''YouTube''. Retrieved March 13, 2018.</ref>
==Species==
==Species==
Koopas are probably the most diverse class of enemies in the Mario series, with dozens of Koopa variants having appeared since their ''Super Mario Bros.'' debut.
===Boom Boom===
 
[[File:Boom_Boom_SMR.png|thumb|150x150px|Boom Boom in ''Super Mario Run'']]
===Ankoopa===
{{Main|Boom Boom}}
{{Main|Ankoopa}}
'''Boom Booms''' are a Koopa species similar to Bowser's. Booms Booms are very large and most have spikes on the back of their shells. The only difference seems to be the connected plastron (the underside of the shell) that Boom Booms have. They have huge arms, which they use to attack by flailing them, although in some cases their arms are replaced with wings. Aside from the main Boom Boom, a female Boom Boom named [[Pom Pom]] has been shown. They appear in boss battles in games like ''[[Super Mario Bros. 3]]'', ''[[Super Mario 3D Land]]'', ''[[New Super Mario Bros. U]]'', ''[[New Super Luigi U]]'', ''[[Super Mario 3D World]]'', and ''[[Super Mario Maker 2]]''.
'''Ankoopas''' are big pudgy [[Koopa Troopas]] that only appear in ''[[Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga]]''. They block off places and act as guards.
{{br}}
 
===Beach Koopa===
[[File:Koopa Troopa Artwork - Super Mario 3D World.png|thumb|150px|A Beach Koopa chasing its shell in ''Super Mario 3D World'']]
{{Main|Beach Koopa}}
'''Beach Koopas''' are shell-less Koopas. They either wear a shirt or boxer shorts. Usually, Beach Koopas search for their shell, even if Mario destroyed it.
 
===Bombshell Koopa===
{{Main|Bombshell Koopa}}
'''Bombshell Koopas''' are Koopas who live in [[Sarasaland]] in [[Super Mario Land]]. Unlike most Koopas, this variant seems to be under [[Tatanga]]'s command; none are known to be affiliated with the Koopa Troop. When attacked, Bombshell Koopas vanish and leave their [[Shell]] behind to explode.


===Boom Boom===
===Buzzy Beetle===
[[File:BoomBoomSM3DL.png|thumb|150px|Boom Boom in ''Super Mario 3D Land'']]
[[File:NSMBU Buzzy Beetle Artwork.png|thumb|150x150px]]
{{Main|Boom Boom (species)}}
{{main|Buzzy Beetle}}
'''Boom Booms''' are a Koopa species similar to Bowser's. Booms Booms are very large in size and most have spikes on the back of their shells. Their most notable traits are their huge arms, which they use to attack by flailing them around. Members of this species include [[Boom Boom]] and a female Boom Boom named [[Pom Pom]].
Buzzy Beetles are found generally in caves and other dark areas. They are known to be immune to fireballs, and they can climb on walls and ceilings, and they can drop from ceilings if Mario or others approach them closely enough. As with Koopa Troopas, Buzzy Beetles hide inside their shell if Mario or others stomp on them, letting their shells be used.
;Other Buzzy Beetle species
{|
|
*[[Big Buzzy Beetle]]
**[[Big Bony Beetle]]
*[[Bony Beetle]]
**[[Big Bony Beetle]]
*[[Buster Beetle]]
*[[Buzz-Bomb]]
*[[Magmite]]
**[[Magmus]]
*[[Noko Bombette]]
*[[Para-Beetle]]
**[[Heavy Para-Beetle]]
**[[Spiky Parabuzzy]]
|
*[[Spike Top]]
**[[Dark Spike Top]]
**[[M. M-Spike Top]]
**[[Spike Top#Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door|Red Spike Top]]
**[[Spiky Parabuzzy]]
*[[Shiny Buzzy Beetle]]
*[[Small Buzzy Beetle]]
*[[Stone Buzzy]]
**[[Dark Stone Buzzy]]
|}
{{br}}


===Bowser's species===
{{main|Bowser}}
Not much is known about the species of Koopa to which Bowser belongs. The only members appear to be [[Bowser]], [[Bowser Jr.]], the [[Koopalings]], and the [[Koopa Kids]]. Their most notable feature is their [[Bowser's Shell|spiked shells]], similar to a [[Spiny]]. Unlike a Spiny however, members of this species of Koopa stand upright, and are much larger than most types of Koopas upon reaching adulthood. Even as a child, Bowser Jr. is almost as tall as a full-grown Koopa Troopa.<ref>[[Media:Size chart.jpg|Size comparison chart.]]</ref> Another unique feature of this species is that their shells don't entirely cover their whole body. Instead, their shells only cover their backs while only having a padded stomach in the front (that could be part of their shells). These Koopas are known for their strength, sometimes the ability to breathe out flames, and durability, even as children, as well as magical powers; they typically are the leaders of the Koopa race. Unlike Koopa Troopas, Bowser's species don't have a beak.
===Chargin' Chuck===
===Chargin' Chuck===
[[File:Chargin' Chuck Artwork - Super Mario 3D World.png|thumb|150px|Chargin' Chucks with and without helmets in ''Super Mario 3D World'']]
[[File:Chargin' Chuck Artwork - Super Mario 3D World.png|thumb|150x150px|Chargin' Chucks with and without helmets in ''Super Mario 3D World'']]
{{main|Chargin' Chuck}}
{{main|Chargin' Chuck}}
'''Chargin' Chucks''' (sometimes referred to as '''Koopa Quarterbacks''' or '''Koopa Football Players''') are a type of Koopa who wear American football gear. They have a variety of attacks and sports based weaponry, such as damaging baseballs and footballs. Chargin' Chucks first appeared in ''[[Super Mario World]]''. Like the Hammer Bros. and their variations, Chargin' Chucks often appear as duos, or sometimes even larger groups.
'''Chargin' Chucks''' are a type of Koopa who wear gridiron football gear. They have a variety of attacks and sports based weaponry, such as damaging baseballs and footballs. Chargin' Chucks first appeared in ''[[Super Mario World]]''. They have similarities to [[Boom Boom]], and like the [[Hammer Bro]]s. and their variations, Chargin' Chucks often appear as duos, or sometimes even larger groups.
 
{{br}}
===Dark Koopa===
{{main|Dark Koopa}}
'''Dark Koopas''' are [[Koopa Troopas]] with purple shells that only live in underground places, for example, the [[Toad Town Tunnels]]. They are only seen in the games [[Paper Mario]] and [[Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door]].
 
===Dark Paratroopa===
{{main|Dark Paratroopa}}
'''Dark Paratroopas''' are flying versions of Dark Koopas. They were cut out from [[Paper Mario]], but appeared in [[Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door]].


===Dry Bones===
===Hammer Bro===
[[File:MP8 DryBones.png|thumb|150px|Dry Bones from ''Mario Party 8'']]
{{main|Hammer Bro}}
{{main|Dry Bones}}
[[File:NSMBU Hammer Bro Artwork.png|thumb|150x150px]]
'''Dry Bones''' (also known as '''Skeleton Koopas''') are skeletal versions of Koopa Troopas introduced in ''[[Super Mario Bros. 3]]''. These undead Koopas will often collapse when attacked, but they can reassemble themselves after a short while and continue to battle their opponents. A rarer, larger version exists: the [[Super Dry Bones]].
'''Hammer Bros.''' (or '''Hammer Brothers''') are a type of Koopa that stand upright, wear helmets and shoes, and throw hammers at passerby. There are various similar Koopas who throw other objects at their opponents, such as the [[Boomerang Bro]]s., [[Ice Bro]]s., and the [[Fire Bro]]s., the latter of which used to spit their projectiles from their mouths, but now pull them from thin air, like the others. All of these Koopas have similar shell patterns (though they are color-coded by type: Hammer Bros. wear green armor, Fire Bros. wear red, Boomerang Bros. wear blue, Ice wear light blue, etc.) and beaks that are lighter in color than the rest of their face, both of which sets them apart from Koopa Troopas, which are also slightly smaller.
;Other Hammer Bro species
{|
|
*[[Amazing Flyin' Hammer Brother]]  
**[[C. A. F. H. Bro]]
*[[Boomerang Bro]]
**[[Beanerang Bro]]
**[[Circus Bro]]
**[[Dark Boomerang Bro]]
**[[Goomerang Brother]]
**[[Paper Boomerang Bro]]
*[[Business Bro]]
*[[Calm Hammer Bro]]
*[[Chariot Bro]]
*[[Chomp Bro]]
*[[Dark Hammer Bro]]
|
*[[Fire Bro]]
**[[Dark Fire Bro]]
**[[Paper Fire Bro]]
*[[Ice Bro]]
*[[Juggler Bro]]
*[[Limbo Bro]]
**[[Elite Limbo Bro]]
*[[Paper Hammer Bro]]
*[[Sledge Bro]]
**[[Shady Sledge Bro]]
*[[Small Hammer Bro]]
*[[Yo Bro]]
|}
{{br}}


===Electro-Koopa===
===Koopa (Bowser's species)===
{{main|Electro-Koopa}}
[[File:Koopalings Airship Artwork.jpg|thumb|150x150px|Various members aboard an [[airship]]]]
'''Electro-Koopas''' are Koopas found in ''[[Super Mario Sunshine]]''. There are three kinds of Electro-Koopas, all of which walk on all fours and have electrical shells which they can throw like boomerangs. From what has been seen in the series so far, Electro-Koopas are native to Isle Delfino.
{{main|Koopa (Bowser's species)}}
'''Koopas''' (not to be confused with [[Koopa Troopa]]s or the Turtle Tribe in general) are a large species that is generally shown with bipedal posture, a spiked shell that is separated between the front and back, and lumpy, fleshy muzzles. As the species [[Bowser]] belongs to, many of his traits and abilities are later shown by others, such as the ability to [[Fire Breath|breathe fire]]. Most examples of them are specific named characters rather than generic enemies. They physically have the closest resemblance to [[Boom Boom]]s and [[Sumo Bro]]s.


===Gargantua Koopa Troopa===
;Most variants of Bowser's species are offshoots of Bowser himself.
{{main|Gargantua Koopa Troopa}}
*[[Bowser Statue]]
'''Gargantua Koopa Troopas''' are a type of Koopa Troopa native to [[Big Island]] and the level [[Jungle of the Giants]], as depicted in ''Super Mario Bros. 3'' and ''[[New Super Mario Bros. U]]'', respectively. Like many creatures found on Big Island, Gargantua Koopa Troopas are enormous versions of their counterparts in the rest of the world. These gigantic Koopas are also found in [[Super Mario Galaxy 2]]'s [[Supermassive Galaxy]].
*[[Bowser Stunner]]
 
*[[Fake Bowser]]
===Hammer Bro.===
**[[Tail Bowser]]
[[File:Hammer Bro-NSMBU.png|thumb|150px|A Hammer Bro. as seen in ''New Super Mario Bros. U'']]
*[[Koopa Kid]]
{{main|Hammer Bro.}}
*[[Mechakoopa]]
'''Hammer Bros.''' (or '''Hammer Brothers''') are a type of Koopa that stand upright, wear helmets and throw hammers at passerby. There are various similar Koopas who throw other objects at their opponents, such as the [[Boomerang Bro.|Boomerang Bros.]] and the [[Fire Bro.|Fire Bros.]], the latter of which spits its projectiles from its mouth, instead of pulling them from thin air. All of these Koopas have similar shell patterns, and beaks that are lighter in color than the rest of their face, both of which sets them apart from Koopa Troopas, which are also slightly smaller in size.
**[[Blasta Mechakoopa]]
 
**[[Flying Mechakoopa]]
===Koopa Paratroopa===
**[[Mega Mechakoopa]]
{{main|Koopa Paratroopa}}
**[[Zappa Mechakoopa]]
'''Koopa Paratroopas''' (also known as '''Parakoopas''', '''Sky Troopas''' in ''[[Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars]]'', or simply '''Paratroopas''', in Japanese パタパタ ''Patapata''), are Koopa Troopas with wings. They can bounce along the ground or hover back and forth with their wings, which will fall off if the Koopa Paratroopa takes damage, turning it into a normal Koopa Troopa. It is unknown if de-winged Koopas can re-grow their wings, though it appears that not all Koopa Troopas can grow wings in the first place, suggesting the Paratroopas are a distinct species. They were first introduced in the original ''[[Super Mario Bros.]]'' and have been a staple of the [[Mario (series)|''Mario'' series]] ever since.
{{br}}
 
===Koopa Kid===
{{main|Koopa Kid}}
'''Koopa Kids''' are a species of small Koopas that look similar to [[Bowser]] and work for him. They have appeared in every [[Mario Party (series)|Mario Party]] game except [[Mario Party DS]], [[Mario Party 8]], [[Mario Party 9]], and [[Mario Party: Island Tour]]. In those games, they were replaced by [[Bowser Jr.]]. There is a trio whos members come in the colors Red, Green, and Blue. In spite of what their name implies, these Koopas do not appear to be Bowser's offspring, and their exact relationship to Bowser has never been disclosed.


===Koopa Troopa===
===Koopa Troopa===
{{main|Koopa Troopa}}
{{main|Koopa Troopa}}
'''Koopa Troopas''' (often shortened to plain '''Koopas''' and occasionally to '''Troopas''', Japanese ノコノコ ''Nokonoko'') are common enemies in the ''Mario'' series. While some are peaceful, Koopa Troopas are usually displayed as foot soldiers of the Koopa Troop under the direct leadership of Bowser. They are considered to be the archetypal Koopas, as they have no special abilities like [[#Hammer Bros.|Hammer Bros.]] or [[#Lakitu|Lakitu]]. Throughout the Mario series, Koopa Troopas have appeared as both quadrapedal creatures (four legged) and bipedal (walking on two legs). Since their debut in ''Super Mario Bros.'', Koopa Troopas have appeared in almost every game, usually as enemies, but also as playable characters or [[Mario Party (series)|party]] members.
[[File:SuperMarioParty KoopaTroopa.png|thumb|150x150px]]
 
'''Koopa Troopas''' (often shortened to plain '''Koopas''' and occasionally to '''Troopas''', Japanese ノコノコ ''Nokonoko'') are common enemies in the ''Super Mario'' franchise. While some are peaceful, Koopa Troopas are usually displayed as foot soldiers of the Koopa Troop under the direct leadership of Bowser. They typically have no special offensive abilities like [[#Hammer Bros.|Hammer Bros.]] or [[#Lakitu|Lakitu]]s. Throughout the ''Super Mario'' franchise, Koopa Troopas have appeared as both quadrupedal creatures (four legged) and bipedal (walking on two legs). Since their debut in ''Super Mario Bros.'', Koopa Troopas have appeared in almost every game, usually as enemies, but also as playable characters in numerous spin-offs. They are also partners for Mario in the first two ''[[Paper Mario (series)|Paper Mario]]'' games.
===Koopatrol===
;Other Koopa Troopa species
{{main|Koopatrol}}
{|
'''Koopatrols''' are armored Koopas with spikes and appear to be Bowser's main guards. They first appear in ''[[Paper Mario]]''.
|
 
*[[Ankoopa]]
===Koopeleon===
*[[Beach Koopa]]
{{main|Koopeleon}}
*[[Big Koopa Troopa]]
'''Koopeleons''' are a rare and unique sub-species of Koopas that live in the [[Toadwood Forest]] in ''[[Mario & Luigi: Partners in Time]]''. A Koopeleon resembles a Koopa and chameleon hybrid with a blue shell, green skin, large eyes, and a long curled tail. Koopeleons have the ability to turn invisible, a survival mechanism that allows them to hunt unsuspecting prey. Gold Koopaleons are practically the same thing, but live inside [[Thwomp Volcano]] and have an extremely high defense.
**[[Big Dry Bones]]
 
**[[Big Koopa Paratroopa]]
===KP Koopa===
*[[Bombshell Koopa]]
{{main|KP Koopa}}
*[[Climbing Koopa]]
'''KP Koopas''' are [[Koopa Troopas]] who have dyed their shells gold. They only appear in [[Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door]].
*[[Dark Koopa]]
*[[Dry Bones]]
**[[Big Dry Bones]]
**[[Dark Bones]]
**[[Dry Bones 5-Stack]]
**[[Dull Bones]]
***[[Dark Dull Bones]]
**[[Elite Dry Bones]]
**[[Paper Dry Bones]]
**[[Parabones]]
**[[Red Bones]]
**[[Sad Dry Bones]]
**[[Vomer]]
*[[Electro-Koopa]]
**[[Blue Electrokoopa]]
**[[Red Electrokoopa]]
***[[Electro-Koopa King]]
|
*[[Glad Red Koopa]]
*[[Koopa Paratroopa]]
**[[Big Koopa Paratroopa]]
***[[Big Troopa]]
****[[Grand Troopa]]
**[[Dark Paratroopa]]
**[[Dreamy Paratroopa]]
**[[G. R. P-Troopa]]
**[[Koopa Paratroopa 10-Stack]]
**[[KP Paratroopa]]
**[[Mad G. P-Troopa]]
**[[Malakoopa]]
**[[Paper Paratroopa]]
**[[Paratroopea]]
**[[Scaratroopea]]
**[[Shady Paratroopa]]
**[[Shiny Paratroopa]]
**[[Z Koopa]]
**[[Parabones]]
*[[Koopatrol]]
**[[Dark Koopatrol]]
*[[Koopa Troopa 6-Stack]]
*[[Koopeleon]]
**[[Gold Koopeleon]]
|
*[[KP Koopa]]
**[[KP Paratroopa]]
*[[Mad Green Koopa]]
*[[Mask Koopa]]
*[[Mural Koopa]]
*[[Paper Koopa Troopa]]
*[[Shady Koopa]]
**[[Shady Paratroopa]]
*[[Shiny Koopa Troopa]]
*[[Snooza Koopa]]
*[[Snortoise]]
*[[Space Troopa]]
*[[State Troopa]]
*[[Stormtroopa]]
*[[Super Koopa (enemy)|Super Koopa]]
*[[Super Troopa]]
*[[Terrapin]]
**[[Terra Cotta]]
**[[Torte]]
*[[Troopea]]
**[[Elite Troopea]]
**[[Paratroopea]]
**[[Scaratroopea]]
*[[Wereturtle]]
|}
{{br}}


===Lakitu===
===Lakitu===
[[File:Lakitu-NSMBU.png|thumb|100px|A Lakitu as seen in ''New Super Mario Bros U'']]
[[File:NSMBU Lakitu Artwork.png|thumb|150x150px|A Lakitu as seen in ''New Super Mario Bros. U'']]
{{main|Lakitu}}
{{main|Lakitu}}
'''Lakitus''' are bespectacled Koopas who ride clouds through the skies, and which can occasionally be found snorkeling in water and hiding behind walls or in pipes. Unlike most Koopa species, they do not have snouts or beaks, but flat faces; their shells are also unique in their circular patterning. To attack, Lakitus typically throw unlimited numbers of [[#Spiny|Spiny Eggs]] at their opponents, and some will also dangle [[1-Up Mushroom]]s from fishing poles to lure their targets closer.
'''Lakitus''' are goggled Koopas who ride clouds through the skies, and which can occasionally be found snorkeling in water and hiding behind walls or in pipes. Unlike most Koopa species, they do not have snouts or beaks, but flat faces with round noses. Their shells are also unique in their circular patterning. To attack, Lakitus typically throw unlimited numbers of [[#Spiny|Spiny Eggs]] at their opponents, and some will also dangle [[1-Up Mushroom]]s from fishing poles to lure their targets closer.
;Other Lakitu species
*[[Aqua Lakitu]]
*[[Calm Lakitu]]
*[[Commander Lakitu]]
*[[Dark Lakitu]]
*[[Fishin' Lakitu]]
**[[Fishing Boo]]
***[[C. Fishing Boo]]
*[[Glam Lakitu]]
*[[Lakipea]]
*[[Lakitu King]]
*[[Lakitu R]]
*[[Lakitu in a Pipe]]
*[[Lakitufo]]
*[[Thunder Lakitu]]
*[[Wall Lakitu]]
{{br}}


===Magikoopa===
===Magikoopa===
[[File:Magikoopa Artwork - Super Mario 3D World.png|thumb|left|150px|A Magikoopa as seen in ''Super Mario 3D World'']]
[[File:Magikoopa Artwork - Super Mario 3D World.png|thumb|150x150px|A Magikoopa as seen in ''Super Mario 3D World'']]
{{main|Magikoopa}}
{{main|Magikoopa}}
'''Magikoopas''' (referred to as '''Koopa Wizards''' in the [[Super Mario World (television series)|''Super Mario World'' television series]]) are a variant of Koopa that can cast spells and fly on broomsticks. They are generally considered to be high-ranking members of the Koopa Troop. They wear glasses and wizard's garb; typically blue robes and hats, though Magikoopas specializing in different forms of magic sport different colors. Aside from their heads, which have slightly larger beaks than those of their normal counterparts, little is known about the Magikoopa's external structure due to their robes.
'''Magikoopas''' (referred to as '''Kameks''' in the European localizations and as '''Koopa Wizards''' in the [[Super Mario World (television series)|''Super Mario World'' television series]]) can cast spells and fly on broomsticks. They are generally considered to be high-ranking members of the Koopa Troop. They wear glasses and wizard's garb: typically blue robes and hats, though Magikoopas specializing in different forms of magic sport different colors. Aside from their heads, which have slightly larger beaks than those of their normal counterparts, little is known about the Magikoopa's external structure due to their robes. [[Kamek]] is a notable Magikoopa.
 
;Other Magikoopa species
===Parabones===
*[[Dark Magikoopa]]
[[File:Para Dry Bones Artwork - Super Mario 3D World.png|thumb|120px|A Parabones as seen in ''Super Mario 3D World'']]
*[[Gray Magikoopa]]
{{main|Parabones}}
*[[Green Magikoopa]]
*[[Magifoofa]]
*[[Purple Magikoopa]]
*[[Red Magikoopa]]
*[[Toady]]
*[[White Magikoopa]]
*[[Yellow Magikoopa]]
{{br}}


===Robot Monster Troopa===
===Shova===
{{main|Robot Monster Troopa}}
[[File:ShovaForeground.png|thumb|150x150px|A Shova in ''Super Mario Bros. Wonder'']]
'''Robot Monster Troopas''' are powerful robots that are similar in appearance to [[Koopa Troopas]]. They only appear in [[The Super Mario Bros. Super Show]] episode [[Koopenstein]].
{{main|Shova}}
 
'''Shovas''' are large Koopas similar to [[Boom Boom]]s and [[Chargin' Chuck]]s that are capable of pushing large objects like pipes with their large mitted hands.
===Rocky Wrench===
{{br}}
[[File:Rocky_wrench.jpg|150px|thumb|Rocky Wrenches' Koopa-like appearance in ''Super Mario Bros. 3''.]]
{{main|Rocky Wrench}}
'''Rocky Wrenches''' are enemies that resemble [[Monty Moles]] and pop out of manhole covers on [[airship]]s at random. They were considered a type of Koopa at the time of ''[[Super Mario Bros. 3]]'', <ref>"Rocky is a turtle who kind of looks like a mole. He will suddenly appear and start to throw wrenches at Mario." — ''[[Super Mario Bros. 3]]'' Manual, Page 37</ref> but they lost their shell after their debut appearance and may have been reclassified as a consequence.
 
===Shellcreeper===
[[Shellcreeper]]s are the prototypes of Koopas who first appeared in [[Mario Bros. (game)]].
 
===Snooze-A-Koopa===
{{main|Snooze-A-Koopa}}
'''Snooze-A-Koopas''' (also known as '''Snooza Koopas''') are bizarre-looking Koopas encountered by Mario in the game ''Super Mario Sunshine''. Snooze-A-Koopas have flippers instead of hands or feet and walk on all fours; they are also quite large and have a shell with a [[Yoshi Egg]]-like pattern on it. They spend much of their time sleeping, but they can be violent when provoked.


===Spike===
===Spike===
[[File:Spike Artwork - Super Mario 3D World.png|thumb|150px|A Spike in ''Super Mario 3D World'']]
[[File:Spike Artwork - Super Mario 3D World.png|thumb|150x150px|A Spike in ''Super Mario 3D World'']]
{{main|Spike}}
{{main|Spike}}
'''Spikes''' are small Koopas who either stand still or walk around. When Mario or an ally of his comes by, however, Spikes throw spiked balls to harm the character. More specialized variants, such as [[Snow Spike]]s and [[Stone Spike]]s, also exist and throw their namesake projectiles instead of spiked balls.
'''Spikes''' are small Koopas who either stand still or walk around. When Mario or an ally of his comes by, however, Spikes throw spiked balls or bars to harm the character. More specialized variants, such as [[Snow Spike]]s and [[Stone Spike]]s, also exist and throw their namesake projectiles instead of metallic, spiked balls.
;Other Spike species
*[[Clubba]]
**[[Dark Clubba]]
**[[White Clubba]]
*[[Mad Spike]]
*[[Shiny Paper Spike]]
*[[Snow Spike]]
*[[Stone Spike]]
{{br}}


===Spiny===
===Spiny===
[[File:Spiny Artwork - New Super Mario Bros. 2.png|thumb|150px|A Spiny in ''New Super Mario Bros. 2'']]
[[File:Spiny Artwork - New Super Mario Bros. 2.png|thumb|150x150px|A Spiny in ''New Super Mario Bros. 2'']]
{{main|Spiny}}
{{main|Spiny}}
'''Spinies''' (Japanese トゲゾー Togezō) are four-legged Koopas known for their spiked shells. They appear to have a symbiotic relationship with [[#Lakitu|Lakitus]], another Koopa variant which throw Spiny Eggs at their opponents.
'''Spinies''' (Japanese トゲゾー ''Togezō'') are four-legged Koopas known for their spiked shells. They appear to have a symbiotic relationship with [[#Lakitu|Lakitus]], another Koopa variant which throw Spiny Eggs at their opponents.
;Other Spiny species
*[[Big Spiny]]
*[[Dark Spiny]]
*[[Sad Spiny]]
*[[Sharpea]]
*[[Shiny Paper Spiny]]
*[[Sky-Blue Spiny]]
*[[Spike Blop]]
*[[Spike Koopa]]
*[[Spikey (Super Mario RPG)|Spikey]]
**[[Spikester]]
**[[Urspike]]
*[[Spiny Egg]]
*[[Spiny R]]
*[[Spiny Shroopa]]
*[[Thorny]]
{{br}}


===Spike Koopa===
===Sumo Bro===
{{main|Spike Koopa}}
{{main|Sumo Bro}}
'''Spike Koopas''' are [[Koopa Troopas]] with Spikes on their shells. They only appear in the game [[Mario Party]] in the [[minigame]] [[Key-pa-Way]].
[[File:NSMBU Sumo Bro Artwork.png|thumb|150x150px]]
'''Sumo Bros.''' (or '''Sumo Brothers''') are a type of Koopa with similarities to [[Sledge Bro]] and [[Chargin' Chuck]]. They pound their foot to create thunderbolts that explode upon impact with the ground. Despite fitting within the [[Hammer Bro]]s. naming scheme in most languages, they are generally depicted as unrelated. Sumo Bros. first appeared in ''[[Super Mario World]]''.
{{br}}


===Stormtroopa===
==Other Koopa-like creatures==
{{main|Stormtroopa}}
===Conkdor===
'''Stormtroopas''' are [[#Koopa Troopa|Koopa Troopas]] dressed similarly to certain ''Star Wars'' characters. They only appeared in the [[Super Mario Bros. Super Show]] episode [[Star Koopa]].
[[File:Conkdor Artwork - Super Mario 3D World.png|thumb|150x150px|left]]
{{main|Conkdor}}
'''Conkdors''' are huge flightless birds with lavender-colored spiked Koopa shells and long necks and beaks they can use to bash anyone in front of them.


===Super Troopa===
===Rocky Wrench===
{{main|Super Troopa}}
[[File:Rocky_wrench.jpg|thumb|150x150px|Rocky Wrenches' Koopa-like appearance in ''Super Mario Bros. 3''.]]
'''Super Troopas''' are large and strong Koopa Troopas that are very dull and clumsy. They serve as Bowser's guards and only appear in the ''[[The Super Mario Bros. Super Show]]''.
{{main|Rocky Wrench}}
 
'''Rocky Wrenches''' are enemies and pop out of manhole covers on [[airship]]s at random. They were stated to be a mole-like type of Koopa during ''[[Super Mario Bros. 3]]'',<ref>「モグラようなカメ{{ruby|族|ぞく}}。{{ruby|穴|あな}}からニョキッと{{ruby|出|で}}てきてスパナを{{ruby|投|な}}げてくる。{{ruby|飛行船|ひこうせん}}の{{ruby|乗組員|のりくみいん}}だ。」 ("''Mole-like members of the Turtle Tribe. They will pop out of a hole to throw their spanner. They are the maintenance crew of the airship.''") - ''Super Mario Bros. 3'' Japanese instruction booklet, page 38.</ref><ref>"Rocky is a turtle who kind of looks like a mole. He will suddenly appear and start to throw wrenches at Mario." - ''Super Mario Bros. 3'' English instruction booklet, Page 37.</ref> but have been redesigned to greatly resemble [[Monty Mole]]s (which are in turn based off Rocky Wrenches) as of ''[[New Super Mario Bros. Wii]]'', though the shells reappear in the "classic" styles of ''[[Super Mario Maker]]'' and its iterations as well as the DLC for ''[[Mario Kart 8 Deluxe]]''.
===Super Koopa===
{{br|left}}
[[File:SMW SuperKoopa.jpg|thumb|150px|A Super Koopa jumping and flying in ''Super Mario World'']]
{{main|Super Koopa (enemy)|Super Koopa}}
'''Super Koopas''' are shell-less Koopas that wear a cape, allowing them to fly.


===Terra Cotta===
===Skedaddler===
{{main|Terra Cotta}}
[[File:SMBW Skedaddler.png|thumb|150x150px|left]]
'''Terra Cottas''' are advanced versions of Terrapins they are only found at [[Bowser's Keep]] in the game ''[[Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars]]''. Instead of having green shells like Terrapins, they have red ones.
{{main|Skedaddler}}
'''Skedaddlers''' are timid ground squirrel-like enemies that spit seeds to attack. They have small, black shells very similar to the ones [[Rocky Wrench]]es sometimes have.


===Terrapin===
===Yoshi===
{{main|Terrapin}}
[[File:Yoshi - Mario Party 10.png|thumb|150x150px]]
'''Terrapins''' are armored Koopas with green shells that appear in ''[[Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars]]''. In spite of their armored appearance, these Koopas are the weakest enemies in the game, even weaker than Goombas.
{{main|Yoshi (species)}}
 
'''Yoshis''' are long-tongued omnivorous saurian creatures initially intended as Koopas.<ref>in the {{media link|SMHAmerican SMW and SMAS.jpg|section of the ''Super Mario History Booklet'' dedicated to ''Super Mario World''}} [[Takashi Tezuka]] states that ''''Yoshi was originally supposed to be a type of Koopa. That saddle you see on his back was actually is shell.''</ref> After their debut, this connection was not brought up again for many years, but it would eventually be reconfirmed that they are turtles with the large red "saddle" being a natural shell.<ref>[https://www.nintendo.co.uk/News/2017/October/Nintendo-Classic-Mini-SNES-developer-interview-Volume-5-Super-Mario-World-and-Super-Mario-World-2-Yoshi-s-Island-1290850.html Nintendo Classic Mini: SNES developer interview – Volume 5: Super Mario World and Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Island].</ref><ref>Brian (April 27, 2019). [https://nintendoeverything.com/yoshis-crafted-world-devs-on-the-art-style-kindergarten-inspiration-flip-side-gimmick-more/ Yoshi’s Crafted World devs on the art style, kindergarten inspiration, flip side gimmick, more]. ''Nintendo Everything''. Retrieved May 2, 2019.</ref><ref>[https://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/news/742615.html The Creator of the Famicom and the Designer of Super Mario are here!]. GAME Watch. Retrieved June 5, 2022.</ref> As such, they are the one Koopa-based creature consistently depicted as friendly characters, with [[Yoshi]] being a major protagonist of both the ''[[Mario (franchise)|Mario]]'' franchise as well as [[Yoshi (franchise)|his own]] franchise.
===Tub-O-Troopa===
{{br}}
{{main|Tub-O-Troopa}}
'''Tub-O-Troopas''' are chubby [[Koopa Paratroopas]] that are found at [[Bowser's Keep]] they only appeared in ''[[Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars]]''


==Names in other languages==
==Names in other languages==
{{foreignname
{{foreign names
|Jap=カメ族
|Jap=カメ{{ruby|一族|いちぞく}}<ref>''Super Mario Bros. 2'' Disk System instruction booklet, page 3.</ref><ref>''Super Mario Bros. 3'' Japanese instruction booklet, page 35.</ref><br>''Kame-ichizoku''<br>クッパ{{ruby|一族|いちぞく}}<ref>''All Night Nippon Super Mario Bros.'' instruction booklet, pages 6 and 7.</ref> (''All Night Nippon Super Mario Bros.'')<br>''Kuppa-ichizoku''<br>カメ{{ruby|族|ぞく}}<ref>''Super Mario Bros. 3'' Japanese instruction booklet, page 38.</ref><br>''Kame-zoku''<br>カメ<br>''Kame''
|JapR=Kame-zoku
|JapM=Turtle Tribe<br><br>Bowser Tribe<br><br>Turtle Tribe<br><br>Turtle
|JapM=Turtle Tribe
|Spa=Koopa<br>(Los) Koopa
|SpaM=-<br>(The) Koopa
|Por=Koopa
|Por=Koopa
|PorM=-
|PorM=-
|Fra=Koopa
|Fre=Koopa
|FraM=-
|FreM=-
|Ita=Koopa<br>Tribù delle Tartarughe (''Super Mario Bros.'' manual)
|ItaM=-<br>Turtle Tribe
|Rus=Купа
|RusR=Kupa
|RusM=Koopa
|Kor=거북족<ref>해머를 던지는 거북족의 엘리트, 전망 좋은 높은 곳을 좋아하는 것 같다.(Hammer-throwing Elite of Turtle Tribe. He seems to like high place with good view.), from card description of Hammer Bro from ''[[Super Paper Mario]]''</ref>
|KorR=Geobukjok
|KorM=Turtle Tribe
|Ger=Koopa
|GerM=-
|ChiS=喏库<br>''Nuòkù''<br>乌龟族<ref>In-game profile of Mario from ''Super Smash Bros.''. "在人们的印象中,马力欧一直是一个用特殊的跳跃技能与乌龟族战斗的水管工。" (In people's impression, Mario has always been a plumber who used special jumping skills to fight with the Turtle Tribe.)</ref> (''Super Smash Bros.'')<br>''Wūguī Zú''<br>龟族 (''Mario Party Superstars'')<br>''Guī Zú''
|ChiSM=Derived from "喏库喏库" (''Nuòkù'nuòkù'', Koopa Troopa)<br><br>Turtle Tribe<br><br>Turtle Tribe
|ChiT=烏龜族<ref>[https://www.nintendo.tw/mariokartwii/character/index_04.html Official traditional Chinese website for ''Mario Kart Wii'']. Retrieved December 18, 2021.</ref> (''Mario Kart Wii'')<br>''Wūguī Zú''<br>庫巴一族<ref>[https://www.nintendo.com.hk/switch/mario/history/index.html Official Chinese website for the ''Super Mario Bros.'' 35th Anniversary]. Retrieved February 7, 2021.</ref> (''Super Mario Bros.'' 35th Anniversary)<br>''Kùbā-yīzú''
|ChiTM=Turtle Tribe<br><br>Bowser Tribe
}}
}}


==References==
==References==
<references />
<references/>
{{BoxTop}}
 
{{Misc Koopas}}
{{Buzzy Beetles}}
{{Hammer Bros.}}
{{Koopa Troopas}}
{{Koopa Paratroopas}}
{{Dry Bones}}
{{Lakitus}}
{{Magikoopas}}
{{Spikes}}
{{Spinies}}
{{Koopas}}
{{Koopas}}
[[Category:Species]]
[[Category:Major Races]]
[[Category:Mario Sports Mix]]
[[Category:Mario Kart Wii]]
[[Category:Mario Kart: Double Dash!!]]
[[Category:Koopas|*]]
[[Category:Koopas|*]]
[[Category:Mario Party Advance]]
[[Category:Mario & Luigi series species]]
[[Category:Reptiles and Amphibians]]

Latest revision as of 12:40, April 27, 2024

Not to be confused with Koopa Troopa.
This article is about the Koopa species as a whole. For other uses of the word "Koopa", see Koopa.
Koopa
Artwork of Koopa Troopa from Super Mario Party
A Koopa Troopa, the most common and basic type of Koopa
First appearance Super Mario Bros. (1985)
Latest appearance Super Mario Bros. Wonder (2023)
Variant of Shellcreeper
Variants
Derived subjects
Notable members
Yoshi-dear, that baby is going to cause disaster to befall the Koopas. So give him here before you accidentally get hurt!”
Kamek, Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Island

Koopas (once "the Koopa")[1] are a category of turtle-like creatures that form the Turtle Tribe (also known as the Koopa clan or Koopa tribe). There are many different types of Koopas, the most common being Koopa Troopas; they are specifically named for the species that Bowser belongs to due to an inconsistency in localization.

Most Koopas operate in a hierarchy-based grouping system. Bowser is the leader of a large army of minions, which has invaded the Mushroom Kingdom many times and has control over most of the Koopas in the Super Mario franchise, beginning in Super Mario Bros., where, according to an interpretation of the story of the game's Japanese manual[2] during the English localization that saw Koopa (クッパ) as the name of the group of turtles instead of the name of Bowser, they were known for their "black magic."[3] Said interpretation has since been rectified, with Koopa being acknowledged to be the Japanese name of Bowser,[4] but the concept of Koopas as a group of turtles in the West remains,[5] while Nintendo of Japan consistently refers to Koopa as the name of Bowser and to the Turtle Tribe (カメぞく) as the group to which the various turtles belong.[6] Many of these same Koopas are members of the Koopa Troop and have different tasks in the organization based on the abilities of their particular class. For example, Koopa Troopas tend to be assigned as basic foot soldiers alongside Goombas due to their lack of specialized offensive capabilities, while Magikoopas are often given advisory roles due to their magical abilities and gift of foresight.

However, not all Koopas are allied with Bowser. Some Koopas, such as the Koopa Troopas of Koopa Village, live peacefully inside the borders of the Mushroom Kingdom, while others, such as Koopa the Quick in Super Mario 64 and the Roving Racers in Super Mario Odyssey, simply hold no allegiance and operate independently.

Koopas in general are based on the Shellcreepers from Mario Bros., as evident by various enemies being tentatively named and designed after Shellcreepers in development documents of Super Mario Bros.[7] Mario Mania indicates that Koopa Troopas and Koopa Paratroopas were previously Shellcreepers.[8] At least one source, Perfect Ban Mario Character Daijiten, lists Shellcreepers among the Turtle Tribe while simultaneously stating that they are the roots originating the whole Turtle Tribe.[9] Additionally, Super Smash Bros. for Wii U states that Koopa Troopas (referred to simply as "Koopas" in English versions) are apparently evolved from Shellcreepers.[10][11][12]

Species[edit]

Boom Boom[edit]

Boom Boom in Super Mario Run.
Boom Boom in Super Mario Run
Main article: Boom Boom

Boom Booms are a Koopa species similar to Bowser's. Booms Booms are very large and most have spikes on the back of their shells. The only difference seems to be the connected plastron (the underside of the shell) that Boom Booms have. They have huge arms, which they use to attack by flailing them, although in some cases their arms are replaced with wings. Aside from the main Boom Boom, a female Boom Boom named Pom Pom has been shown. They appear in boss battles in games like Super Mario Bros. 3, Super Mario 3D Land, New Super Mario Bros. U, New Super Luigi U, Super Mario 3D World, and Super Mario Maker 2.

Buzzy Beetle[edit]

NSMBU Buzzy Beetle Artwork.png
Main article: Buzzy Beetle

Buzzy Beetles are found generally in caves and other dark areas. They are known to be immune to fireballs, and they can climb on walls and ceilings, and they can drop from ceilings if Mario or others approach them closely enough. As with Koopa Troopas, Buzzy Beetles hide inside their shell if Mario or others stomp on them, letting their shells be used.

Other Buzzy Beetle species

Chargin' Chuck[edit]

Artwork of two Chargin' Chucks from Super Mario 3D World.
Chargin' Chucks with and without helmets in Super Mario 3D World
Main article: Chargin' Chuck

Chargin' Chucks are a type of Koopa who wear gridiron football gear. They have a variety of attacks and sports based weaponry, such as damaging baseballs and footballs. Chargin' Chucks first appeared in Super Mario World. They have similarities to Boom Boom, and like the Hammer Bros. and their variations, Chargin' Chucks often appear as duos, or sometimes even larger groups.

Hammer Bro[edit]

Main article: Hammer Bro
Hammer Bro in New Super Mario Bros. U

Hammer Bros. (or Hammer Brothers) are a type of Koopa that stand upright, wear helmets and shoes, and throw hammers at passerby. There are various similar Koopas who throw other objects at their opponents, such as the Boomerang Bros., Ice Bros., and the Fire Bros., the latter of which used to spit their projectiles from their mouths, but now pull them from thin air, like the others. All of these Koopas have similar shell patterns (though they are color-coded by type: Hammer Bros. wear green armor, Fire Bros. wear red, Boomerang Bros. wear blue, Ice wear light blue, etc.) and beaks that are lighter in color than the rest of their face, both of which sets them apart from Koopa Troopas, which are also slightly smaller.

Other Hammer Bro species

Koopa (Bowser's species)[edit]

Official artwork of Bowser, Bowser Jr., and the Koopalings on an Airship.
Various members aboard an airship
Main article: Koopa (Bowser's species)

Koopas (not to be confused with Koopa Troopas or the Turtle Tribe in general) are a large species that is generally shown with bipedal posture, a spiked shell that is separated between the front and back, and lumpy, fleshy muzzles. As the species Bowser belongs to, many of his traits and abilities are later shown by others, such as the ability to breathe fire. Most examples of them are specific named characters rather than generic enemies. They physically have the closest resemblance to Boom Booms and Sumo Bros.

Most variants of Bowser's species are offshoots of Bowser himself.

Koopa Troopa[edit]

Main article: Koopa Troopa
Artwork of Koopa Troopa from Super Mario Party

Koopa Troopas (often shortened to plain Koopas and occasionally to Troopas, Japanese ノコノコ Nokonoko) are common enemies in the Super Mario franchise. While some are peaceful, Koopa Troopas are usually displayed as foot soldiers of the Koopa Troop under the direct leadership of Bowser. They typically have no special offensive abilities like Hammer Bros. or Lakitus. Throughout the Super Mario franchise, Koopa Troopas have appeared as both quadrupedal creatures (four legged) and bipedal (walking on two legs). Since their debut in Super Mario Bros., Koopa Troopas have appeared in almost every game, usually as enemies, but also as playable characters in numerous spin-offs. They are also partners for Mario in the first two Paper Mario games.

Other Koopa Troopa species

Lakitu[edit]

Lakitu in New Super Mario Bros. U
A Lakitu as seen in New Super Mario Bros. U
Main article: Lakitu

Lakitus are goggled Koopas who ride clouds through the skies, and which can occasionally be found snorkeling in water and hiding behind walls or in pipes. Unlike most Koopa species, they do not have snouts or beaks, but flat faces with round noses. Their shells are also unique in their circular patterning. To attack, Lakitus typically throw unlimited numbers of Spiny Eggs at their opponents, and some will also dangle 1-Up Mushrooms from fishing poles to lure their targets closer.

Other Lakitu species

Magikoopa[edit]

Artwork of a Magikoopa in Super Mario 3D World
A Magikoopa as seen in Super Mario 3D World
Main article: Magikoopa

Magikoopas (referred to as Kameks in the European localizations and as Koopa Wizards in the Super Mario World television series) can cast spells and fly on broomsticks. They are generally considered to be high-ranking members of the Koopa Troop. They wear glasses and wizard's garb: typically blue robes and hats, though Magikoopas specializing in different forms of magic sport different colors. Aside from their heads, which have slightly larger beaks than those of their normal counterparts, little is known about the Magikoopa's external structure due to their robes. Kamek is a notable Magikoopa.

Other Magikoopa species

Shova[edit]

Screenshot of a Shova
A Shova in Super Mario Bros. Wonder
Main article: Shova

Shovas are large Koopas similar to Boom Booms and Chargin' Chucks that are capable of pushing large objects like pipes with their large mitted hands.

Spike[edit]

Artwork of a Spike from Super Mario 3D World.
A Spike in Super Mario 3D World
Main article: Spike

Spikes are small Koopas who either stand still or walk around. When Mario or an ally of his comes by, however, Spikes throw spiked balls or bars to harm the character. More specialized variants, such as Snow Spikes and Stone Spikes, also exist and throw their namesake projectiles instead of metallic, spiked balls.

Other Spike species

Spiny[edit]

Spiny artwork from New Super Mario Bros. 2
A Spiny in New Super Mario Bros. 2
Main article: Spiny

Spinies (Japanese トゲゾー Togezō) are four-legged Koopas known for their spiked shells. They appear to have a symbiotic relationship with Lakitus, another Koopa variant which throw Spiny Eggs at their opponents.

Other Spiny species

Sumo Bro[edit]

Main article: Sumo Bro
Sumo Bro

Sumo Bros. (or Sumo Brothers) are a type of Koopa with similarities to Sledge Bro and Chargin' Chuck. They pound their foot to create thunderbolts that explode upon impact with the ground. Despite fitting within the Hammer Bros. naming scheme in most languages, they are generally depicted as unrelated. Sumo Bros. first appeared in Super Mario World.

Other Koopa-like creatures[edit]

Conkdor[edit]

Artwork of a Conkdor from Super Mario 3D World.
Main article: Conkdor

Conkdors are huge flightless birds with lavender-colored spiked Koopa shells and long necks and beaks they can use to bash anyone in front of them.

Rocky Wrench[edit]

Rocky Wrenches' Koopa-like appearance in Super Mario Bros. 3.
Main article: Rocky Wrench

Rocky Wrenches are enemies and pop out of manhole covers on airships at random. They were stated to be a mole-like type of Koopa during Super Mario Bros. 3,[13][14] but have been redesigned to greatly resemble Monty Moles (which are in turn based off Rocky Wrenches) as of New Super Mario Bros. Wii, though the shells reappear in the "classic" styles of Super Mario Maker and its iterations as well as the DLC for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

Skedaddler[edit]

A Skedaddler standing idly from Super Mario Bros. Wonder
Main article: Skedaddler

Skedaddlers are timid ground squirrel-like enemies that spit seeds to attack. They have small, black shells very similar to the ones Rocky Wrenches sometimes have.

Yoshi[edit]

Artwork of Yoshi in Mario Party 10 (also used in Super Mario Party and Mario Kart Tour)
Main article: Yoshi (species)

Yoshis are long-tongued omnivorous saurian creatures initially intended as Koopas.[15] After their debut, this connection was not brought up again for many years, but it would eventually be reconfirmed that they are turtles with the large red "saddle" being a natural shell.[16][17][18] As such, they are the one Koopa-based creature consistently depicted as friendly characters, with Yoshi being a major protagonist of both the Mario franchise as well as his own franchise.

Names in other languages[edit]

Language Name Meaning
Japanese カメ一族いちぞく[19][20]
Kame-ichizoku
クッパ一族いちぞく[21] (All Night Nippon Super Mario Bros.)
Kuppa-ichizoku
カメぞく[22]
Kame-zoku
カメ
Kame

Turtle Tribe

Bowser Tribe

Turtle Tribe

Turtle

Chinese (simplified) 喏库
Nuòkù
乌龟族[24] (Super Smash Bros.)
Wūguī Zú
龟族 (Mario Party Superstars)
Guī Zú

Derived from "喏库喏库" (Nuòkù'nuòkù, Koopa Troopa)

Turtle Tribe

Turtle Tribe

Chinese (traditional) 烏龜族[25] (Mario Kart Wii)
Wūguī Zú
庫巴一族[26] (Super Mario Bros. 35th Anniversary)
Kùbā-yīzú

Turtle Tribe

Bowser Tribe

French Koopa
-
German Koopa
-
Italian Koopa
Tribù delle Tartarughe (Super Mario Bros. manual)
-
Turtle Tribe
Korean 거북족[23]
Geobukjok
Turtle Tribe

Portuguese Koopa
-
Russian Купа
Kupa
Koopa

Spanish Koopa
(Los) Koopa
-
(The) Koopa

References[edit]

  1. ^ Super Mario Bros. English instruction booklet, page 2.
  2. ^ Super Mario Bros. Japanese instruction booklet. The line in particular is 「強力な魔法を操る大ガメクッパの一族」 which, due to the various meanings of 「の」, can be interpreted as both the tribe of the great turtle Koopa who uses powerful magic or the Koopa tribe, great turtles who use powerful magic. Retrieved May 10, 2018.
  3. ^ Super Mario Bros. North American instruction booklet, page 2.
  4. ^ History section of the Official Home of Mario. Note how the rectified story of Super Mario Bros. now states The Mushroom Kingdom was the peaceful home of the Toads until the day Bowser and his wicked minions invaded. Using powerful magic, Bowser™ transformed the Toads into bricks and quickly conquered the land. Retrieved May 10, 2018.
  5. ^ Bowser's bio in the Official Home of Mario states The king of the Koopas dreams of ruling the Mushroom Kingdom, and only Mario and his brave friends stand in his way!. Retrieved May 10, 2018.
  6. ^ As can be seen both by this diagram of the Koopa Troop on pages 88 and 89 of the Super Mario Zen Hyakka (「スーパーマリオ全百科」, Super Mario Complete Encyclopedia)Media:SMCE pages 88 89.png and the current bio of Bowser in the Mario Portal.
  7. ^ Nintendo (September 14, 2015). Nintendo Digital Event @ E3 2015. YouTube. Retrieved October 18, 2021.
  8. ^ M. Arakawa. Nintendo Mario Mania Player's Guide. Page 13. "These fighting turtles first appeared in Mario Bros. as Shellcreepers, then became Koopa Troopas and Koopa Paratroopas in the Super Mario Bros. series."
  9. ^ Perfect Ban Mario Character Daijiten. Page 55.
  10. ^ "The Koopa is apparently an evolved form of this veteran of Mario Bros." – Shellcreeper trophy from the NTSC Super Smash Bros. for Wii U
  11. ^ "A true veteran from way back in Mario Bros., this guy even predates Koopas, which apparently it evolved into." – Shellcreeper trophy from the PAL Super Smash Bros. for Wii U
  12. ^ Treat4567 (December 28, 2014). [スマブラWiiU] フィギュア 全716種まとめ. YouTube. Retrieved March 13, 2018.
  13. ^ 「モグラようなカメぞくあなからニョキッとてきてスパナをげてくる。飛行船ひこうせん乗組員のりくみいんだ。」 ("Mole-like members of the Turtle Tribe. They will pop out of a hole to throw their spanner. They are the maintenance crew of the airship.") - Super Mario Bros. 3 Japanese instruction booklet, page 38.
  14. ^ "Rocky is a turtle who kind of looks like a mole. He will suddenly appear and start to throw wrenches at Mario." - Super Mario Bros. 3 English instruction booklet, Page 37.
  15. ^ in the section of the Super Mario History Booklet dedicated to Super Mario WorldMedia:SMHAmerican SMW and SMAS.jpg Takashi Tezuka states that ''Yoshi was originally supposed to be a type of Koopa. That saddle you see on his back was actually is shell.
  16. ^ Nintendo Classic Mini: SNES developer interview – Volume 5: Super Mario World and Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Island.
  17. ^ Brian (April 27, 2019). Yoshi’s Crafted World devs on the art style, kindergarten inspiration, flip side gimmick, more. Nintendo Everything. Retrieved May 2, 2019.
  18. ^ The Creator of the Famicom and the Designer of Super Mario are here!. GAME Watch. Retrieved June 5, 2022.
  19. ^ Super Mario Bros. 2 Disk System instruction booklet, page 3.
  20. ^ Super Mario Bros. 3 Japanese instruction booklet, page 35.
  21. ^ All Night Nippon Super Mario Bros. instruction booklet, pages 6 and 7.
  22. ^ Super Mario Bros. 3 Japanese instruction booklet, page 38.
  23. ^ 해머를 던지는 거북족의 엘리트, 전망 좋은 높은 곳을 좋아하는 것 같다.(Hammer-throwing Elite of Turtle Tribe. He seems to like high place with good view.), from card description of Hammer Bro from Super Paper Mario
  24. ^ In-game profile of Mario from Super Smash Bros.. "在人们的印象中,马力欧一直是一个用特殊的跳跃技能与乌龟族战斗的水管工。" (In people's impression, Mario has always been a plumber who used special jumping skills to fight with the Turtle Tribe.)
  25. ^ Official traditional Chinese website for Mario Kart Wii. Retrieved December 18, 2021.
  26. ^ Official Chinese website for the Super Mario Bros. 35th Anniversary. Retrieved February 7, 2021.