Jaxi

"I'll take off as soon as you're strapped in, but watch yourself - I go quick."

- Jaxi

Jaxi is a feline, animated statue found throughout the Sand Kingdom in Super Mario Odyssey. Mario can ride Jaxi by jumping on its back; the first time it is encountered, it must be paid thirty coins to use it, but this fee only has to be paid once, and Mario can call it at any Jaxi Stand free of charge afterwards. It only becomes accessible after completing the mission Showdown on the Inverted Pyramid or by talking to it on the Jaxi Ruins. It is instrumental in the acquisition of several Power Moons and serves as quick transportation through the vast desert.

As soon as Mario jumps onto a Jaxi's back, it takes off running at its full speed. The player can control the Jaxi with, brake by pressing , and dismount by pressing. However, the Jaxi's speed makes it difficult to control, and it slides whenever the player makes a turn, though the player can turn more quickly by braking while turning. Any breakable objects or small enemies the Jaxi runs into are knocked over or defeated, and it can run on poison without being damaged. If Mario falls down a pit while riding a Jaxi, the Jaxi returns to the spot where Mario found it.

Concept and creation
To emphasize it being a moving statue, some parts were made movable and others not-movable before finishing the design of the Jaxi. It was also given a necklace that resembles a mane.

Jaxis are based on s and es, and their name in many languages is a portmanteau of jaguar and taxi. This is reflective of various jaguar deities from ancient Mesoamerica, such as. Jaxis may also be inspired by, Japanese lion statues that are believed to protect shrines and temples from evil. Numerous tales exist about normally stoic komainu statues suddenly coming to life, similar to Jaxis. Notably, the first stone Jaxis encountered in the ruins are before a large gate reminiscent of a, which are traditionally guarded by a pair of komainu in Japan.

Quotes

 * "How you doin'? I'm what you call a Jaxi."
 * "You wanna ride, it'll be 30 coins. Whaddaya say?"
 * "Gotta ride along to get along...bud."
 * "So, what, you doing some sightseeing? You gotta check out the Inverted Pyramid!"
 * "Controls are a snap: : Brake : Dismount"
 * "I'll take off as soon as you're strapped in, but watch yourself—I go quick."
 * "Aw, were you taking me to see my family, you old softy?"
 * "I appreciate your kind gesture. Come see me again anytime!"
 * "I know this place. But my days of standing around are done."