Mario
The primary playable character, who defeats enemies by striking platforms from below and kicking stunned enemies away.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
A | Jump Jump onto platforms or strike enemies from below. |
|---|---|
Control Pad Left | Move left |
Control Pad Right | Move right |
Control Pad Down | Activate the POW block Use when standing on the arena floor. |
Control notes
Player 2 uses the same controls on the second controller.
The game has no conventional attack button; enemies are struck from below.
How it plays
How does Mario Bros. play?
Each stage is a single-screen arena viewed from the side. Pipes release enemies, and the player must defeat every enemy before advancing to the next round.
Jumping into a platform from below flips or stuns enemies on its surface. The player must then touch the stunned enemy to remove it. POW blocks can affect enemies across the arena, but their limited use encourages timing and planning. Bonus stages periodically provide coin-collecting challenges.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play Mario Bros.?
Stay near the center of the arena when possible so you have room to react to enemies approaching from either side. Strike a platform from below only when you can safely reach the stunned enemy afterward.
Use the POW block when several enemies are aligned or when a dangerous enemy is difficult to approach. In two-player mode, agree on separate sides of the arena to avoid accidentally blocking one another.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Luigi
The second playable character in cooperative or competitive two-player mode.
Shellcreeper
A turtle-like enemy that patrols platforms and can be flipped by a jump from below.
Sidestepper
A crab-like enemy that becomes faster after being hit once.
Fighter Fly
A hopping enemy that is vulnerable when it lands on a platform.
Freezie
An ice-like hazard that spreads across platforms and must be removed before it causes trouble.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Watch enemy movement before committing to a jump.
- 2
Clear Freezies quickly because they reduce safe platform space.
- 3
Save the POW block for crowded or dangerous situations.
Community discussion
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