https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1O_y3t_LMQEgUsuWVn4fftuYmNXf8ajmH0e4Q5ACRW4Y/edit?usp=sharing
Description and Intention
This project recreates the iconic “?” Question Box from the Super Mario video game series as an interactive prop.
When someone punches or taps the bottom of the box, it lights up brightly and plays a Mario coin sound, just like in the game when Mario collects a coin or power-up.
The intention behind this costume prop is to bring nostalgia and fun to Halloween.
It’s not designed to scare people — it’s designed to make people smile and feel like they’re inside the Mario world.
When friends see the glowing box and hear the coin sound, they immediately recognize it and often want to “hit” it themselves!
It’s both interactive and playful, perfect for a group or gaming-themed costume.
Concept:
Inspired by the iconic Question Block from the Super Mario games, this interactive box lights up and changes color whenever it’s “hit” from below — just like in the game when Mario punches it to release a coin or power-up.
The project uses NeoPixel LEDs for vivid lighting effects and an impact sensor (or push button) at the bottom to detect the punch or tap.
Objective:
To recreate a nostalgic video game interaction using Arduino and NeoPixel LEDs, demonstrating how sensors can trigger real-time lighting animations.
Take Away…
I chose the Mario Question Box as my Halloween costume because Super Mario has always been one of my favorite games. I’m obsessed with its playful, dynamic style—so I decided to bring the iconic question mark box to life! My first plan was to buy the costume online and then build the box myself. After discussing the idea with Becky, I began modeling the design, bought two rolls of filament, and started 3D printing in the wood shop. Everything went smoothly, except for the printing time—it took almost two full days! Thankfully, Becky kindly provided me with a sound board, and Wini helped me a lot with the circuit assembly.Besides， thanks for woodshop staff members helping me to set up the printer!
During the soldering phase, I experimented with different ways to prevent short circuits on the Gemma board while ensuring there was enough power for the speaker. It was a long and sometimes frustrating process, but eventually, the LEDs worked perfectly and the soundboard played flawlessly. Through this project, I learned two important lessons: patience in problem-solving and the true value of teamwork.
If I had the chance to redo it, I would design a more elastic mechanism to switch the lights on and off, and connect the sound board to a more stable power source for better performance.
Thank You!