Side-scrolling platformer where you pick Mario or Luigi and work through a nonlinear world map to reclaim magic wands from Bowser's seven kids, who've turned regional kings into animals. You'll run, jump, and swim through themed kingdoms, each ending in a boss fight against one of Bowser's children. New power-ups include the Super Leaf (raccoon tail for flight), Frog Suit (better swimming), and Tanooki Suit (temporary statue form). Levels hide secret exits and warp whistles. Between stages, you can tackle optional card-matching minigames or skip them entirely. Movement's more versatile than earlier entries—you can slide down slopes, pick up shells mid-run, and backtrack on the map. Each world introduces new obstacles: ice physics, giant enemies, airships with auto-scrolling decks. It's Mario with more routes and more ways to navigate them.
