Mario
The balanced character, with average running, jumping, and lifting abilities.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
Arrow LeftArrow Right | Move left or right |
|---|---|
Arrow Up | Enter doors and climb vines or ladders when applicable |
Arrow Down | Crouch or descend through suitable platforms |
A | Jump; hold to control jump height |
B | Pick up, carry, and throw objects; run when held while moving |
Control notes
Controls use the NES directional pad and buttons; exact physical button labels are version-independent for this platform.
Character abilities affect jump height, air control, speed, and lifting strength.
How it plays
How does Super Mario Bros. 2 play?
The game uses a side-view perspective across twenty stages arranged in seven worlds. Players move through platforms, doors, pits, ladders, and vertical sections while collecting vegetables, coins, cherries, and power-ups.
Each character has a different jump, speed, and lifting ability. Players defeat most enemies by pulling objects from the ground and throwing them, or by carrying and dropping stunned foes. Each stage ends with a locked door or boss encounter, and the player chooses a character before beginning a level.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play Super Mario Bros. 2?
Choose characters according to the level rather than using one hero throughout. Toad is effective when quick lifting is important, while Luigi and Princess help with long jumps and difficult gaps.
Use the ground-search mechanic constantly. Pull vegetables, bombs, and enemies from the ground, and save carried items for crowded areas or boss fights. Collect cherries to build a Starman meter, and use Potion doors to explore hidden rooms and obtain bonus items.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Luigi
Jumps highest and floats briefly, but has slower movement and traction.
Toad
Runs and lifts objects fastest, but has the weakest jump.
Princess
Can float horizontally for a short time after jumping, but is slower at lifting objects.
Wart
The frog-like ruler of Subcon and the final boss.
Documented inputs
What cheats and unlocks are documented?
Documented unlockNo widely confirmed universal cheat is included here; behavior may differ by regional version.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Learn each character’s jump and lifting differences before committing to a difficult stage.
- 2
Stand on top of enemies before pulling them from the ground; this often creates safer throwing opportunities.
- 3
Search suspicious patches of grass for vegetables, bombs, and other useful objects.
Community discussion
What are players saying? 0