Waluigi

Waluigi (ワルイージ, Waruīji, [w͍a.ɽɯ.iː.dʑi]) (English /wɑːluːˈiːdʒi/) is a fictional character in the Mario franchise. He plays the role of Luigi's arch-rival and accompanies Wario in spin-offs from the main Mario series, often for the sake of causing mischief and problems. He was created by Camelot employee Fumihide Aoki and is voiced by Charles Martinet, who described Waluigi as someone who has a lot of self-pity and would "cheat to win".

Waluigi debuted in the game Mario Tennis as Luigi's rival and Wario's partner. Since then, he would remain a playable character in the main Mario series spin-offs, occasionally causing comedic mischief alongside Wario or antagonizing the rest of the characters, primarily Mario and Luigi. Since his debut, Waluigi has received mixed reception from fans and critics alike.

Creation and characteristics

Waluigi was created during the development of the game Mario Tennis, to serve as the bitter rival to Luigi. He was created by Fumihide Aoki and is voiced by Charles Martinet. His name is a portmanteau of Luigi's name and the Japanese adjective warui (悪い) meaning "bad"; hence, a "bad Luigi".