Nintendo shows its hand (literally)

Nintendo of Japan will soon return to its roots by releasing a series of Mario-themed playing cards.

The Kyoto-based company, which began life (in 1889) as a producer of hanafuda cards, will start selling the "Mario Trump" cards in July for ¥1,050 (approximately $11.50) per set.

Three different designs will be available from the get-go: "Dot" (featuring Mario et al in sprite form), "standard" (Mario et al in hand-drawn form) and "neon" (Mario et al in 3D form).

For a closer look at each design, check out andriasang.com.