Which famous gaming mascot was originally created as a placeholder character during development before becoming the company's official mascot?

Video game mascots have shaped the identity of gaming companies for decades, becoming iconic symbols that players instantly recognize. From plumbers to hedgehogs, these characters have often transcended their games to become cultural phenomena. This trivia question tests your knowledge about the origin story behind one of gaming's most recognizable brand mascots.

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Kirby from Nintendo - originally designed as a simple blob for easy animation that was meant to be replaced later
Crash Bandicoot from Sony - initially a prototype animal called 'Willy the Wombat' before final design
Master Chief from Xbox - started as a generic space marine template before becoming Halo's protagonist
Sonic the Hedgehog from Sega - originally designed as a rabbit that could grab objects with extendable ears