Mario Treats New Yorkers to Free Cabs

To celebrate the launch of Mario Kart in America, Nintendo will be sending Mario to New York to help NYC residents hail taxi cabs.

WHAT: Video game icon Mario treats unsuspecting New Yorkers to a free cab ride. Mario is in New York to promote Mario Kart Wii, the new Nintendo racing game that features Mario and all of his Mushroom Kingdom buddies. He's helping commuters race through the city before they get racing with Mario Kart Wii.

Mario Kart Wii launches April 27 and will be packaged with the Wii Wheel accessory, which lets players control the action on the screen just like they were steering a real car. The game also introduces a host of new courses, vehicles and eye-popping battle arenas, plus the ability to compete online with drivers from around the world using Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection.

WHO: Mario, everyone's favorite Italian plumber, and excited (and grateful) New York commuters

WHEN: Thursday, April 24; 8-10 a.m. and 12-2 p.m.

WHERE: Sheraton Hotel (811 7th Ave., between 52nd and 53rd streets.)

Mario will be hailing down cabs for New York commuters. New Yorkers queuing up for a free cab ride Mario costumed character

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