Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Super Mario World Important to the Mario franchise?
Super Mario World is a 1990 platforming game developed and published by Nintendo for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). It follows Mario and Luigi as they travel across Dinosaur Land to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser. The game introduced Yoshi, one of Nintendo’s most iconic characters, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest platformers ever made.
How many levels are in Super Mario World?
The game contains 72 distinct levels, but contains 96 total exits, which is the number displayed on the save file when players achieve 100% completion. While there are dozens of individual stages, many levels feature multiple exits, including secret exits that unlock alternate routes, hidden worlds, and shortcuts across the map.
Who is Yoshi, and what does he do?
Yoshi is a friendly dinosaur who makes his first appearance in Super Mario World. Players can ride Yoshi to gain extra abilities, such as eating enemies, swallowing shells for special powers, and surviving hazards that would normally defeat Mario. Different colored Yoshis can also grant unique abilities, including flying and powerful attacks.
Blue Yoshi: Flies whenever he has a shell in his mouth, allowing for free-form flight.
Red Yoshi: Spits out three fireballs in a spread pattern when holding any shell.
Yellow Yoshi: Creates sand clouds/earthquakes upon landing from a jump while holding a shell, damaging nearby enemies.
Green Yoshi: Has no inherent special power, but utilizes the power of the shell he is currently holding.
What is Star Road?
Star Road is a hidden network of secret levels scattered throughout Dinosaur Land. By finding secret exits in specific stages, players can unlock Star Road locations that serve as shortcuts to other parts of the game. Completing all Star Road stages eventually opens the mysterious Special World, the game’s most challenging area.
What happens when you complete Special World?
Completing all eight levels of Special World triggers a permanent visual change throughout Dinosaur Land. Enemies gain new appearances, the overworld changes colors, and several sprites receive alternate designs. This serves as a reward for players who fully complete the game’s toughest challenges and discover all of its secrets.