Quick answer: In Super Mario Odyssey, collect enough Power Moons in each kingdom to power the Odyssey and continue the journey. Cappy gives Mario new movement options and lets him capture certain enemies and objects. Beginners progress faster by exploring vertically, experimenting with captures and learning a few reliable movement combinations instead of chasing every Moon immediately.
Power Moons are the main progression currency
Nintendo describes Power Moons as the energy used to power the Odyssey airship. Each kingdom contains many more Moons than the minimum needed to move on. If one challenge is frustrating, leave it, find another Moon and return later.
Use Cappy for more than captures
Cappy can be thrown to hit objects and enemies, but cap throws also extend Mario’s movement. Practice throwing Cappy while jumping, using cap bounces where appropriate and combining jumps with dives. You do not need advanced speedrun techniques to benefit from better movement.
Experiment with captures
Nintendo’s official description highlights the ability to capture and control enemies, objects and animals. A capture often changes the rules of the area: one may jump higher, swim more safely or interact with terrain Mario cannot handle normally. If a creature is placed near an obvious obstacle, test what its capture can do.
Explore each kingdom vertically
Moons are frequently above, below or behind the obvious route. Look from high points, rotate the camera and check ledges. Coins, regional currency and visual landmarks often hint that an area is worth exploring.
Do not try to collect everything immediately
Some content becomes easier or available later. The game is designed to let you continue and revisit kingdoms. Finishing the main story is not the same as exhausting every kingdom’s optional challenges.
Use checkpoints and the map
Activate checkpoints as you find them. They provide convenient fast-travel points within a kingdom and reduce the time spent repeating long walks. The map also helps you recognize which areas you have barely explored.
Two-player co-op
Nintendo supports local two-player play: Player 1 controls Mario and Player 2 controls Cappy. This can be a friendly way to play with a younger or less experienced partner, though both players share the same adventure rather than exploring separate worlds.
Beginner movement habits
- Use the camera before committing to a blind jump.
- Practice long jumps and ground pounds in safe areas.
- Throw Cappy at suspicious objects and signs.
- Use captures whenever the environment appears designed around them.
- Leave a difficult Moon and return later instead of blocking all progress.
FAQ
What do Power Moons do?
They power the Odyssey and unlock further travel between kingdoms.
Can two people play?
Yes. Nintendo supports local co-op with one player controlling Mario and the other Cappy.
Do I need every Power Moon to finish the story?
No. Each kingdom contains optional Moons beyond the amount needed for main progression.
Official reference
Other Articles
Luigi’s Mansion 3: Puzzle, Ghost and Co-Op Beginner Guide
Metroid Dread Beginner Guide: Exploration, Upgrades and Bosses
