I remember the good old days. Mario and Sonic. The dynamic duo. Everyone knew those names, it was a household name where even though they were on opposite sides, the family fun of them brought everyone together. Now think to today: what's happened to Sonic? And where is the quality of Mario games(Galaxy and Brawl excluded)? The last great Sonic game dates back to the 2D era, while Mario finally gets a platformer in the level of Mario 64, the two's popularity is diminishing, while M rated mascots like Master Chief and Solid Snake take the spotlight. Another two examples are Crash Bandicoot and Spyro. The PS1 games were great, platforming fun to tackle Mario, but their new games aren't up to par with back then. Now some people have no idea who Crash or Spyro are, compared to every Playstation owner back 10 years ago. What is happening? Some say it's the original gamers from years ago are the only real gamers, making quality games for them, while others say that kids aren't playing games. They are both completely wrong, as the number of kids who play video games overshadows that of adults. While the dynamic duo join forces in Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games, it's only because all three big names are together that it'll grab attention, but to me it's just an advertising tool solely for Beijing 2008. With all big new IPs being Teen or Mature(mostly Mature), how are younger gamers and families experience new games to play together, or extremely enjoy as much as those back in the early 1990s? Mario Galaxy coming out will be an amazing new addition for all families to enjoy, but when will the get a new mascot that will be on level with the Master Chief? So think back to when everyone could play together on almost any game, and think when E for Everyone characters will redeem themselves and get back into the fray against all those big guns.