PETA is taking a stand against magical suits that let you fly and turn to stone, Tanooki Suits. In an attempt to stay relevant, PETA has launched a new campaign called Mario Kills Tanooki. Their theory is Nintendo's poster boy is promoting wearing fur in real life by donning the Tanooki suit in game. To drive their point home they've created a game called Super Tanooki Skin 2D. The flash game stars a skinless raccoon who must chase down Mario who stole his skin.
PETA's site reads, "When on a mission to rescue the princess, Mario has been known to use any means necessary to defeat his enemy - even wearing the skin of a raccoon dog to give him special powers."
"Tanooki may be just a "suit" in Mario games, but in real life, tanooki are raccoon dogs who are skinned alive for their fur. By wearing tanooki, Mario is sending the message that it's OK to wear fur. Play Super Tanooki Skin 2D and help Tanooki reclaim his fur!"
I considered posting this in the Video Games Central section but I figured it might spawn a discussion on PETA, so General Talk it is.
Anyway, it's eye-rolling but as the blog notes, it achieves its purpose of getting PETA in the news and drawing some attention. It's attention they shouldn't be seeking though, not if they're as serious about their mission as they claim to be. Looking out for animal welfare and the prevention of animal cruelty are noble causes; however, does it really help your cause when you throw away credibility at every turn?
