"Super Mario Run," Nintendo Co.'s first foray into the world of mobile gaming, might be encountering some growing pains.
Even though the game debuted at the top of download rankings in 62 countries, it was the highest grossing game in only five, according to researcher SensorTower. Nintendo shares dropped as much as 5.6 percent in early trade in Tokyo, wiping out almost $2 billion in value. Partner DeNA Co., which helped develop the title, fell as much as 7.9 percent.
The game, which features the company's iconic character running across a scrolling landscape to rescue Princess Peach, provides free access to the first three levels, but requires a $9.99 payment to unlock the remaining 21 and other features. That model is a departure from the world's most profitable mobile games, which are free-to-play but encourage users to buy items. "Super Mario Run" also came out late in the day, and users aren't expected to start paying until they finish the first levels.