Mario vs. Donkey Kong is a puzzle game where Mario 's Mini Mario toys have been stolen by Donkey Kong. The story begins with DK watching TV when he sees an ad for the new Mini Mario Toy, and decides to get as many as he can. Now, Mario must navigate through six levels in each world to rescue the Mini Marios and eventually confront Donkey Kong.
The gameplay involves guiding Mini Marios through obstacles and enemies to reach the toy box at the end of each level. Along the way, players must avoid Bob-ombs, Shy Guys, Boos, trash cans, fireballs, and Thwomps, while also using power-ups like mushroom-shaped items to aid in progress.