Super Mamio: this Russian ‘video game’ highlights the struggle of single parents

St Petersburg-based charity Tyoply Dom has released a new video spotlighting the stigma faced by Russia’s single parents.

Styled as an 8-bit answer to Super Mario, Super Mamio follows a mother as she takes her young son to nursery. As well as the many trials of the school run, our hero also has to face down the open disapproval of neighbours and passersby, draining her precious health.

“Single mothers are vulnerable because they often lack resources,” the charity, who provide emotional and practical support to families facing crisis, told news outlet Wonderzine. “If we add criticism and uninvited advice in the mix, the task of creating a positive emotional environment for children to grow becomes difficult. Super Mamio reminds us that mothers need our care and approval.”