Mario
The main playable hero who journeys through the Mushroom Kingdom.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
D-pad LeftD-pad Right | Move left or right |
|---|---|
D-pad Down | Crouch or enter certain pipes Available when Mario is Super Mario or larger. |
D-pad Up | Enter certain pipes Used at appropriate pipe entrances. |
A | Jump |
B | Run faster or throw fireballs Fireballs require Fire Mario. |
Start | Pause the game |
Combos and sequences
BA | Run and jump Hold B while pressing A for a longer, faster jump. |
|---|
Control notes
Controls apply to the NES-style version; the PC10 cabinet may map these actions to cabinet buttons.
The Select button has no documented core gameplay function in the standard NES release.
How it plays
How does Super Mario Bros. (PC10) play?
The game uses a side-view perspective across eight worlds, each divided into four stages. Mario must reach the flagpole before time expires while crossing platforms, pits, enemies, lifts, water sections, and castles.
Players can run, jump, stomp enemies, collect coins, and use power-ups. Super Mushrooms increase Mario’s size, Fire Flowers grant fireballs, and Starman provides temporary invincibility. The final stage of each world is a castle, and later worlds increase enemy density and platforming precision.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play Super Mario Bros. (PC10)?
Learn the timing of each jump rather than rushing every obstacle. Keep Super Mario whenever possible, and use fireballs to remove difficult enemies from a safe distance.
Explore suspicious walls, ceilings, and pipes for coins, power-ups, and warp zones. In castle stages, observe the repeated obstacle patterns and conserve time for the final approach to Bowser.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Luigi
Mario’s brother and the second player character in multiplayer mode.
Princess Toadstool
The ruler of the Mushroom Kingdom whom Mario must rescue.
Bowser
The Koopa King who kidnaps Princess Toadstool and guards the castles.
Toad
A Mushroom Kingdom attendant who appears after some castle stages.
Goomba
A common walking enemy defeated by jumping on it.
Koopa Troopa
A turtle-like enemy whose shell can be kicked after it is stomped.
Documented inputs
What cheats and unlocks are documented?
Hold A, then press Start at the Game Over screenContinues the game from World 1 of the world number reached in the previous session.
World 1-2 warp pipesAt the end of the underground stage, use the upper pipes to warp to Worlds 2, 3, or 4.
World 4-2 warp passageUse the hidden block-and-vine route to reach pipes leading to Worlds 6, 7, or 8.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Use running speed to clear long gaps, but release B before landing when precision is needed.
- 2
Small Mario can pass through some narrow spaces that Super Mario cannot.
- 3
The timer continues during most safe-looking pauses, so keep moving.
Editorial context
What do players highlight?
A foundational platformer with excellent controls, memorable level design, and substantial challenge.
Its limited lives and strict time limits can feel unforgiving, especially in the later worlds.
Community discussion
What are players saying? 0