# Video game mechanics originating from coding bugs

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/video-game-mechanics-originating-from-coding-bugs
> Updated: 2026-08-07T11:02:51.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

Nintendo's Shigeru Miyamoto has provided insights into the development of the Super Mario franchise, noting that several iconic gameplay mechanics were originally the result of programming errors. 

Miyamoto explained that the ability for Mario to run across small gaps without falling stemmed from a collision-detection bug, and the existence of hidden blocks originated from a bug involving spontaneously appearing coins. In both instances, he chose to retain these features because they enhanced the fun and gameplay experience.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-07: Video game developers discuss mechanics born from bugs and technical challenges

Shigeru Miyamoto revealed that iconic Super Mario mechanics were originally programming bugs, while Owlcat Games shared lessons learned from technical struggles porting Warhammer 40K: Rogue Trader.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/video-game-developers-discuss-mechanics-born-from-bugs-and-technical-challenges

### 2026-08-01: Shigeru Miyamoto says Super Mario dash was born from a coding bug

Miyamoto revealed the Super Mario dash came from a collision‑detection bug, kept for fun, and highlighted other accidental features like hidden blocks and Cheep Cheep, stressing the team’s collaborative process

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shigeru-miyamoto-says-super-mario-dash-was-born-from-a-coding-bug

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Cite as: Video game mechanics originating from coding bugs. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/video-game-mechanics-originating-from-coding-bugs