- Mario is typically considered the hero as he rescues Princess Peach from Bowser by defeating the villain and saving the princess. However, in some games Luigi fills the hero role, such as in Luigi's Mansion where he must save Mario.
- King Bowser is usually portrayed as the villain since he kidnaps Princess Peach and locks her in his castle. Other villains sometimes include Wario and Waluigi.
- Donor blocks give power-ups like mushrooms and fire flowers to help Mario. Though mysterious, looking ahead in levels can hint at what power-ups they contain.
- Toads typically ask Mario to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser, though in