In the Mushroom Kingdom, there stands a mysterious tree. It has a branch in the shape of a tail and is known as the Tail Tree. One night, a fierce storm assails the Mushroom Kingdom. Worried for the Tail Tree, Princess Peach goes to check on it, but when morning arrives, she has yet to return.

Accompanied by Toads, Mario rushes to the Tail Tree only to find its leaves are gone. All that remains is the bare Tail Tree and an envelope.

Inside the envelope, they find a photograph of Princess Peach in Bowser’s grasp! The Toads are beside themselves. Bowser is up to his dirty deeds again, so Mario rushes off to rescue Princess Peach!