Super Mario Strikers is a soccer game where Mario plays without referees or rules. The game takes place in an electric fenced arena, and players can use items to gain an advantage. Bowser often appears to shake things up, adding an extra layer of challenge.
The gameplay involves choosing team captains, sidekicks, and sides, as well as selecting play modes like grudge matches, cup battles, custom tournaments, and tutorials. Team captains have the power to execute a super strike, worth two goals, but beware – opponents can still hit you. Sidekicks can charge shots for more power, while players can do lob passes or ground passes. The one-timer move involves shooting as soon as a teammate passes the ball to you.
Players can hit any opponent, but if they hit someone without the ball, their team will receive an item. Items can be earned by scoring goals, adding a strategic element to the game.