These are Mario's most basic forms, but they are fundamental to understanding the game's progression and power-up system.
- Small Mario: This is Mario's default state when he starts a new life or takes damage while in a powered-up form. In this state, Mario is vulnerable to a single hit from any enemy or hazard, which will result in losing a life. He cannot break Brick Blocks from below.
- Super Mario: Obtained by collecting a Super Mushroom. Super Mario is larger and can withstand one hit before reverting to Small Mario. He can also break Brick Blocks from below. This is the foundational power-up, and most other power-ups require you to be Super Mario to transform further. If Small Mario collects a Super Mushroom, he becomes Super Mario. If Super Mario collects a Super Mushroom, he gains a 1-Up.
Always aim to be Super Mario as quickly as possible in any stage. The extra hit point is invaluable for survival, and the ability to break blocks opens up more paths and secrets.