I think it's possible to point out that the gaming industry* has a problem where the Dumbass in Distress is usually female, while noting that some (many?) individual heroes are the sort that would save random strangers from peril because they're that kind of person. Especially when those random strangers' absence is a national emergency.

The Bowser-as-game-designer theory would be fun, especially if Peach starts asking if they can switch roles. I mean, maybe sometimes she wants to run the obstacle course and have Mario being the one playing cards with Bowser at the finish line.

* And other storytellers.