Super Mario RPG blends the Mario cast and setting with turn-based role-playing mechanics, sending Mario and a group of allies, including original characters like Mallow and Geno, on a quest to recover the Star Pieces and defeat Smithy's invading gang. Combat combines traditional turn-based commands with timed button presses that boost attacks and defense.

Its mix of RPG structure, light platforming-influenced exploration, and Mario's own charm gives it a distinct identity within both the RPG genre and the wider Mario series.