Super Mario Run can't save Nintendo from falling

Nintendo may be celebrating record downloads of its new Super Mario Run smartphone game, but its shares were not on winning form today amid pricing concerns.

The Japanese gaming giant’s latest product has been downloaded more than 40 million times since its launch in the app store on December 15.

That breaks records for Apple’s mobile software shop. It can be downloaded for nothing, but to unlock all 24 levels, users must pay $9.99 (£8).

The one-off payment model contrasts with rivals who demand small, frequent payments for upgrades so players can move up through the game.

But investors are worried about how many people are paying to play the new game which features the princess-rescuing Italian plumber.

Shares dropped 3.8% in Tokyo, with the firm’s stock pushed to a six-week low today.