Discussing the unhealthy nature of the Mario/Peach relationship
In almost every game since the first Super Mario brothers, plus the ancient obscure anime and most of the cartoons, Peach is kidnapped and Mario has to risk life and limb to rescue her. She doesn't even try to help herself out of the situation, nor does Mario give her a chance to do so. The so-called hero saves the damsel in distress simply because this is the way it must be.
One would say given the number of times Peach is kidnapped and doesn't try very hard to escape Bowser's clutches, she's not too bright. And there's plenty of evidence that she isn't.
But in a way, she does have some intelligence. Princess Peach Toadstool is actually very manipulative.
Yes, manipulative. The number of times plus not thinking to rescue herself means Peach is willing to let this happen just so the foolish plumber will come to her rescue. Almost as if she enjoys being a damsel in distress, waiting there like a sitting duck, relishing in the fact that Mario is risking his neck out there all for her sake. She's selfish, she enjoys having people worship and protect her and fight for her.
Mario, meanwhile, is ignorant of the princess's manipulation. Also note that he doesn't even suggest she get an alarm system or a weapon to ward off Bowser. This indicates that Mario actually wants Peach to be kidnapped so he can rush in, save her, and be a big hero.
And it's always his own doing. He doesn't ask for his poor, unfortunate brother's help, nor does he consider rounding up an army to help shorten the quests! He goes through all those levels and fights all those enemies by himself, so he can have all the glory.
Simply put, Mario likes having his ego fed.
And Nintendo wants us to believe this egotistical plumber and manipulative princess are "in love". It might look pretty on the screen, but in reality, Mario and Peach have one of the most unbalanced, unhealthy relationships ever in video game history.