The Koopalings were conceived in 1988 for Super Mario Bros. 3 by various game designers who were challenged to come up with new bosses. Most of the Koopalings have punk hairstyles and are named after musicians. Their names are Ludwig von Koopa, Lemmy Koopa, Roy Koopa, Iggy Koopa, Wendy O. Koopa, Morton Koopa Jr. and Larry Koopa.
In 2009, after an 18 year hiatus The Kooplings made a return in Super Mario World on the Wii. Here are The Kooplings next to their the musician who inspired their name and their look…
Roy Orbison – Roy Koopa
Iggy Pop – Iggy Koopa
Lemmy Kilmister – Lemmy Koopa
Wendy O. WIlliams – Wendy O. Koopa
Ludwig von Beethoven – Ludwig von Koopa
Morton Koopa, Jr.’s name comes from actor Morton Downey Jr. yet the star on his eye is based on KISS guitarist Paul Stanley’s makeup.
Some say Larry Koopa’s name comes from Larry King but other sources claim his name come from U2 drummer Larry Mullen Jr.
Larry Mullen Jr. – Larry Koopa
For more video game Mario Bros. stuff, click below to hear Radiohead Kid A album in 8-bit sound. Freakin’ Awesome!!!