In Super Mario World, Yoshi can eat various items and enemies. He can consume fruits, such as apples, watermelons, and berries, to gain special abilities. Additionally, Yoshi can eat Koopa Troopas, Goombas, and other enemies, turning them into Yoshi's eggs, which he can then use as projectiles.

As early as the first level, the music and enemy design is synchronized such that during specific musical beats, all Koopa Troopas pause to do a dance while looking directly at the player. The dance returns in all New Super Mario Bros. sequels, where other enemies begin dancing to the music as well.