Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels / Characters

Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels Characters: Mario versus Luigi and the single-player rules

Choose the physics that suit the route you are learning.

Edition covered

Original 8-bit Japanese Super Mario Bros. 2 rules. Super Mario All-Stars changes bonus-world access and lives; Super Mario Bros. Deluxe omits the bonus worlds.

5 characters · one picture per entry · open a picture for full size.

Characters

Solo selection

Mario

Choose for precise ground control.

Reference

Solo selection

Luigi

Choose for higher jumps.

Reference

Castle captive

Toad

Continue to the next world.

Reference

Final rescue

Peach

Complete the main route.

Reference

Castle opponent

Bowser

Fight or reach the axe.

Reference

Quick notes

Mario and Luigi are separate solo choices. Select one on the title screen.
Luigi trades traction for jump height. He can clear higher gaps but needs extra braking room.
Mario is steadier on small platforms. His lower jump makes some routes stricter, but firmer ground control helps around narrow landings and springs.
Castle characters are not roster unlocks. Peach and the Toads mark story progress.

Mario and Luigi are separate solo choices

Physics comparison
Trait	Mario	Luigi
Jump height	Lower	Higher
Traction	Firmer	More slippery
Narrow landing	Easier braking	Needs more margin
High route	Requires tighter execution	May clear more easily

References

Guide references
Reference	Website
Nintendo original game information	www.nintendo.com
Edition-specific mechanics reference	www.mariowiki.com