Which gaming mascot was originally created as a placeholder character but became so popular that the company decided to make them the star of their flagship franchise?

In the world of gaming, brand mascots have become powerful symbols that drive recognition and loyalty. These characters often transcend their games to become cultural icons in their own right. This trivia question tests your knowledge about the origins of one of gaming's most recognizable mascots and the strategic decisions behind its creation. Do you know the real history behind the characters that defined generations of gaming?

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Kirby from Nintendo - initially designed as a simple blob for easy animation
Crash Bandicoot from Naughty Dog - originally conceived as a temporary test model
Sonic the Hedgehog from Sega - first created as an internal company mascot before getting a game
Mario from Nintendo - started as 'Jumpman' in Donkey Kong because a proper character hadn't been designed yet