Mario
The primary playable plumber, controlled by the first player.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
Joystick Left | Move left |
|---|---|
Joystick Right | Move right |
Fire Button | Jump Use the joystick direction while jumping to control horizontal movement. |
Control notes
Controls refer to the Atari 2600 joystick and fire button.
The second player uses the second controller in two-player mode.
How it plays
How does Mario Bros. play?
Each stage is a single fixed screen containing platforms, pipes, and enemies. Mario moves horizontally and jumps between the platforms while avoiding hazards and positioning himself beneath enemies.
Strike a platform from below to flip an enemy, then touch the stunned enemy before it recovers. Stages become more difficult as enemies move faster and hazards appear. One-player and alternating two-player play are available, with the second player controlling Luigi.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play Mario Bros.?
Use the platforms to control enemy movement rather than chasing enemies across the screen. Position Mario below an enemy, strike it once, and approach immediately while it is stunned.
Keep track of pipes and the screen edges, especially when several enemies are active. In two-player games, coordinate attacks so one player stuns enemies while the other clears them.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Luigi
Mario’s brother and the second player character in two-player games.
Shellcreeper
A turtle-like enemy that can be stunned from below and then removed.
Sidestepper
A crab-like enemy that becomes more dangerous after being struck.
Fighter Fly
A flying enemy that must be attacked when it is vulnerable.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Strike enemies from underneath before attempting to touch them.
- 2
Clear dangerous enemies early and avoid careless jumps near the screen edges.
- 3
Use two-player mode to divide attention between different parts of the stage.
Community discussion
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