this game goes back the original platform conventions of "super mario bros.". like that game, mario jumps, runs, and hits enemies. however, he does not touch a flag and reach a castle. at the end of the level, he hits a spinning block, which will yield a flower, a mushroom, or a star block. when he gets three blocks, he will be rewarded. three stars will result in five lives. if he gets a mix, he will get one extra life.