Classic Mario items like Shells, Bananas, and Mushrooms can be used to disrupt opponents. Players can also perform "Team Tackles" to push teammates into enemies or towards the ball for a tactical advantage.

By picking up a Strike Orb on the pitch, players can charge a cinematic special shot that, if successful, counts for two goals.

The game supports up to 8 players on a single console, local wireless, or online play.

Matches are 5-on-5 (four field players and one AI goalkeeper per team) played in stadiums that are often combinations of two different themes.