Mario Game Cheats and Tricks

Mario is one of the most-played games of all time, loved by kids and adults alike. Like every classic, it hides a handful of famous cheats and tricks. Here are some of the best-known ones from the original Super Mario Bros.

Warp to World 5

World 5-1 can be reached early from World 1-2, and you’ll need Super or Fiery Mario to do it. Near the end of the level, jump on top of the pipe that leads to the exit and break the block above the far-left section of the ceiling. Stand on the very edge of the pipe with one foot hanging off, duck, and jump backward. If your timing is right, Mario slips through the pipe and blocks into the warp zone — enter the middle pipe to travel to World 5, Level 1.

The Minus World

The infamous "Minus World" is reached from World 1-2 as well. At the pipe that leads to the flagpole, break the blocks so that just one remains touching the pipe. Duck and jump backward into that block (without breaking it). You should slide through the wall and into a warp zone; drop down the first pipe you see and you’ll land in the Minus World, an endless water level.

Unlimited 1-Ups

You can rack up endless extra lives in World 3-1. Become Super Mario and head to the staircase near the end flag, where two turtles walk down the stairs. Jump over the first, then bounce on the second so its shell ricochets against the step. Keep bouncing on the shell without touching the ground and the extra lives will pile up.

Keep Fire Power as Small Mario

You can throw fireballs even while small. Reach Bowser in a castle level (1-4, 2-4, 3-4 and so on) as Big Mario. As Bowser walks toward you, jump so that you touch both Bowser and the axe at the same moment. Done correctly, you’ll flash but stay big. On the next stage grab the Mushroom that appears (it replaces the Fire Flower); touching it shrinks you. Then pick up a Fire Flower and you’ll have fire power as small Mario.

World Select

Once you finish the game, you can jump to any world you like. After beating Bowser, don’t turn the console off — you’ll return to the title screen. There, hold the B button and press Start to begin in World 1 through 8, whichever you choose.