Koopa Troopas, commonly shortened to Koopas or Troopas, known in Japan as Nokonoko (ノコノコ), are mini-troopers of the Koopa Troop from the Mario franchise. First appearing in the 1983 Arcade game Mario Bros. as Shellcreepers. The Koopa Troopa is among the oldest recurring enemies in the series and have appeared in some form in all of the main games and most of the spin-off games. When defeated, Koopas may flee from or retreat inside their shells, which can usually be used as weapons. Koopa shells are a recurring weapon in the series, particularly popularized in the Mario Kart series, in which they can be fired as projectiles against other racers. Despite making up the bulk of Bowser's army, known as the "Koopa Troop", Koopas as a species are often shown to be peaceful, some teaming up with Mario. An undead Koopa Troopa becomes a Dry Bones.
