Goomba

Goomba is a fictional character created by Nintendo and appears primarily in the *Super Mario* video game series. Introduced in *Super Mario Bros.* (1985), Goomba is one of the most iconic enemies in the franchise, known for its simple yet recognizable design. The character resembles a short, green, mushroom-like creature with a round body, stubby arms, and a small, triangular head. Its name is derived from the Japanese word *gōmabō*, meaning "dumb mushroom," reflecting its basic behavior.

Goombas are typically encountered in outdoor environments, such as grassy plains, forests, and castles. They move in a straight line at a steady pace, making them easy targets for the player. In most games, they can be defeated by jumping on their heads, causing them to explode into a pile of goop. Some variations exist, such as the Paragoomba, which can fly, and the Koopa Troopa, a related enemy with a shell. Goombas often serve as a foundational enemy, introducing players to basic combat mechanics in the *Mario* series.

Over the years, Goombas have appeared in numerous *Mario* games across multiple platforms, including spin-offs like *Mario Kart*, *Mario Party*, and *Super Smash Bros.* Their design has remained largely consistent, though some variations feature different colors or abilities. Despite their simplicity, Goombas have become a staple of the *Mario* universe, symbolizing the series' approachable yet enduring appeal. They are often used as a visual shorthand for the *Mario* franchise in media outside of games.