Mario
The main playable hero who travels through the Mushroom Kingdom to rescue Peach.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
D-pad | Move left or right; press Down to crouch or enter certain pipes. |
|---|---|
A | Jump; hold while jumping to perform a higher jump. |
B | Dash; use while holding a shell to kick or throw it. |
L | Scroll the world map left in map screens. |
R | Scroll the world map right in map screens. |
Touch screen | Use the reserved power-up or interact with supported minigame elements. Touch-screen functions vary by mode. |
Combos and sequences
D-pad RightBA | Run to the right and jump farther using a running jump. |
|---|---|
D-pad DownA | Perform a spin jump from certain wire or rope surfaces. Only applies where the stage provides a compatible surface. |
Control notes
Button assignments refer to the Nintendo DS version.
The D-pad direction can be reversed without changing the action.
How it plays
How does New Super Mario Bros. play?
The game uses a side-view perspective. Mario runs and jumps through eight main worlds, avoids enemies and hazards, collects coins and Star Coins, and reaches the goal at the end of each stage.
Power-ups include Super Mushrooms, Fire Flowers, Starman, Mini Mushrooms, and Mega Mushrooms. World maps contain standard stages, fortresses, towers, castles, bonus areas, and secret paths. Two players can also compete in dedicated wireless minigames.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play New Super Mario Bros.?
Learn the timing of running jumps rather than rushing every obstacle. Collecting all three Star Coins in a stage can reveal alternate progression and improves completion.
Keep a useful power-up before entering fortresses and castles. Mini Mario is especially important for certain secret routes, while the Mega Mushroom is best saved for large groups of enemies or breakable terrain.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Luigi
Mario's brother and the second playable character in multiplayer modes.
Princess Peach
The ruler of the Mushroom Kingdom who is kidnapped at the start of the adventure.
Bowser
The primary antagonist and ruler of the Koopas.
Bowser Jr.
Bowser's son and a recurring opponent who helps carry out Peach's kidnapping.
Documented inputs
What cheats and unlocks are documented?
Documented unlockDefeat the World 2 boss as Mini Mario to unlock the path to World 4.
Documented unlockDefeat the World 5 boss as Mini Mario to unlock the path to World 7.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Use the map's moving platforms and pipes to look for secret routes.
- 2
The touch screen displays the current item reserve; activate it when the situation is safe.
- 3
Blue coin trails often indicate a short timed challenge or a useful route.
Editorial context
What do players highlight?
A polished modern take on classic 2D Mario platforming.
The secret exits and Star Coins give the straightforward stages extra replay value.
Community discussion
What are players saying? 0