Cheats, Glitches & Secrets in Super Mario Bros. (1985): Warp Zones, Infinite Lives & More

Are There Cheat Codes for the Original Super Mario Bros.?

The NES classic Super Mario Bros. (1985) does not have traditional cheat codes entered via controller inputs. However, players have discovered several glitches and techniques that can provide advantages.

Known Glitches and Techniques

• Warp Zones: Hidden pipes in Worlds 1-2, 4-2, and 4-2 (alternate) let you skip ahead to later worlds.
• "Jump Through" Glitch: With precise timing, Mario can jump through solid blocks to access hidden areas or bypass obstacles.
• Infinite Lives Trick: In World 3-1, bouncing on a Koopa Troopa shell against a stair block can yield infinite 1-Ups (requires precise timing).
• Infinite Jump Glitch: A highly technical exploit allowing continuous jumping by manipulating physics—more a curiosity than a practical tool.

Important Notes

• These are unintentional glitches, not developer-intended cheats.
• They can be inconsistent and difficult to perform.
• Using them may reduce the satisfaction of mastering the game's intended challenge.

Recommended Approach

Practice the game's precise platforming mechanics. The sense of accomplishment from beating Bowser through skill alone is unmatched.