PETA Takes Aim at 'Super Mario'

United Press International

Virginia-based People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals is criticizing Nintendo icon Mario for donning a suit modeled after a raccoon.

PETA said the video game character's use of the Tanooki suit, modeled after Japanese raccoon dogs called tanuki, in the new "Super Mario 3D Land" for the Nintendo 3DS, as well as "Super Mario Bros. 3" for the original Nintendo Entertainment System, "is sending the message that it's OK to wear fur," USA Today reported Tuesday.

The group has created a Web site, titled "Mario Kills Tanooki," featuring a game called "Super Tanooki Skin 2D," which allows the player to control a skinless animal chasing a Mario wearing a blood-soaked Tanooki suit.

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