Dr. Mario Was Once Called Virus and Infected Arcades

Before Mario donned his Doctor's gown, he originally starred in a Dr. Mario prototype called Virus.

Found in a PlayChoice-10 unit, a NES-based arcade console, the concept shows the iconic puzzle game in one of its earlier states - without the fan-favourite "Fever" and "Chill" themes, and even "Sick Level" displayed instead of Speed.

As well as playing the latest NES games modified for the arcades, the PlayChoice setup was also used at times to test certain titles in development - which could explain the presence of Virus over Dr. Mario. The version also includes a bonus after each pill has dropped, culminating at the end of each level - but was removed from the retail release.