The game uses a side-scrolling perspective. Each stage requires the player to move from left to right, survive enemies and hazards, collect coins and power-ups, and reach the flagpole before the time limit expires.

Stages are grouped into worlds with four courses each, followed by an end-of-world castle. Mario or Luigi can run, jump, crouch, swim, stomp enemies, and use fireballs when powered up. The game includes warp zones, hidden rooms, bonus areas, and several misleading routes. Completing the main worlds can unlock additional challenge worlds.

Learn the safest route through each stage before prioritizing coins. The game often punishes rushing, so stop to observe enemy cycles, moving platforms, and hidden blocks.

Use small Mario carefully: a mistake can cost a power-up, but large Mario can also be trapped by tight passages. Preserve Fire Flowers for castle rooms and difficult enemy groups, and remember that some apparent power-ups or pipes are deliberately placed to create risk.