I apologize for this, but you have to admit that these power-ups are not as iconic as, say the Fire Flower or Starman right?
Considering a huge portion of his power-ups are items, I actually retract my statement. However, these power-ups do not have to be attributed to Mario. Both Mario and Luigi have access to the power-ups and the rather show the series as a whole than define Mario as a character. I think his Cape Fireball and,to a less extent FLUDD, show Mario through the ages. From his days shooting Fireballs, to his days flying with capes (even though its implementation surprises me), to his days cleaning up paint which a high pressured hose, it shows Mario through the ages.
I personally think the way Sakurai is showing powerups, through items, is more enjoyable, as you see Marth in a Tanuki Tail or see a Metal Kirby rather than shoving eight of the power-ups into Mario.
My problem with your statement is how you are blaming Palutena for having twelve different custom moves instead of Mario. I swear the Palutena hate on Smashboards is laughable; we get a completely unique staff user and people complain because it's for Kid Icarus and not Mario or Mega Man.
