• Table of Contents

  • What Does Mario Jump on When He Completes a Level?
  • The Flagpole: A Symbol of Victory
  • The Castle: A Gateway to New Adventures
  • Other Platforms and Objects
  • Platforms:
  • Other Objects:
  • Q&A
  • 1. Why does Mario jump on a flagpole at the end of a level?
  • 2. What is the significance of the castles at the end of some levels?
  • 3. Are there any other objects that Mario can jump on at the end of a level?
  • 4. Do different levels have different designs for the end-of-level objects?
  • 5. Can Mario earn extra points by jumping on other objects at the end of a level?
  • Summary

When playing the iconic video game Super Mario Bros., one of the most satisfying moments is when Mario successfully completes a level. As he leaps into the air, players often wonder, “What is Mario jumping on?” In this article, we will explore the various objects and platforms that Mario encounters at the end of a level, providing valuable insights into the game’s design and mechanics.

The Flagpole: A Symbol of Victory

At the end of each level in Super Mario Bros., players will notice a tall flagpole with a flag attached to it. This flagpole serves as the primary object that Mario jumps on to complete a level. The flagpole is a symbol of victory, representing Mario’s progress and accomplishment.

The height at which Mario grabs the flagpole determines the number of bonus points he receives. The closer he is to the top, the more points he earns. This mechanic encourages players to aim for the highest point possible, adding an extra layer of challenge and competition to the game.

The Castle: A Gateway to New Adventures

Occasionally, instead of a flagpole, Mario encounters a castle at the end of a level. These castles serve as gateways to new worlds and levels, marking significant milestones in the game’s progression. When Mario jumps on top of a castle, he gains access to the next set of challenges and adventures.

The castle’s design varies throughout the game, with each castle having its unique characteristics and obstacles. Some castles are guarded by powerful enemies, while others require Mario to solve puzzles or find hidden paths. These diverse castle designs keep the gameplay fresh and engaging, ensuring players are constantly challenged.

Other Platforms and Objects

While the flagpole and castle are the most common objects that Mario encounters at the end of a level, there are other platforms and objects that he can jump on. These additional elements add variety to the game and provide players with different ways to complete a level.

Platforms:

• Platforms with Enemies: In some levels, Mario may encounter platforms with enemies on top. By defeating these enemies, Mario can safely jump on the platform and complete the level.
• Moving Platforms: Certain levels feature platforms that move horizontally or vertically. Mario must time his jumps carefully to land on these moving platforms and reach the end of the level.
• Rotating Platforms: Rotating platforms add an extra layer of challenge to the game. Mario must time his jumps precisely to land on these platforms as they rotate, ensuring he doesn’t fall off.

Other Objects:

• Goal Poles: In some levels, Mario encounters goal poles instead of flagpoles. These poles have a spinning circle at the top, and Mario must jump and touch it to complete the level.
• Warp Pipes: Warp pipes are another common object found at the end of levels. By jumping into a warp pipe, Mario can be transported to different areas of the game, allowing for shortcuts or access to hidden levels.
• End-of-Level Doors: In certain levels, Mario must jump through a door to complete the level. These doors often lead to bonus areas or secret levels, rewarding players for their exploration.

Q&A

1. Why does Mario jump on a flagpole at the end of a level?

Mario jumps on a flagpole at the end of a level to symbolize his victory and progress. The height at which he grabs the flagpole determines the number of bonus points he receives, adding an extra layer of challenge and competition to the game.

2. What is the significance of the castles at the end of some levels?

Castles at the end of levels serve as gateways to new worlds and levels. When Mario jumps on top of a castle, he gains access to the next set of challenges and adventures.

3. Are there any other objects that Mario can jump on at the end of a level?

Yes, besides flagpoles and castles, Mario can jump on platforms with enemies, moving platforms, rotating platforms, goal poles, warp pipes, and end-of-level doors. These objects add variety to the game and provide different ways to complete a level.

4. Do different levels have different designs for the end-of-level objects?

Yes, different levels in Super Mario Bros. have unique designs for the end-of-level objects. Castles, in particular, vary in their layouts and obstacles, ensuring players are constantly faced with new challenges.

5. Can Mario earn extra points by jumping on other objects at the end of a level?

While jumping on the flagpole yields bonus points based on the height of the grab, jumping on other objects at the end of a level does not typically provide additional points. However, these objects often lead to shortcuts, hidden levels, or bonus areas, rewarding players in different ways.

Summary

In Super Mario Bros., Mario jumps on various objects and platforms to complete a level. The most common object is the flagpole, symbolizing victory and offering bonus points based on the height of the grab. Castles serve as gateways to new worlds and levels, while other platforms and objects add variety and challenge to the game. By understanding these elements, players can fully appreciate the design and mechanics behind Mario’s triumphant leaps at the end of each level.