Super Meat Boy is a platform game in which players control Meat Boy, a small, dark red, cube-shaped character who must rescue his girlfriend Bandage Girl from the scientist Dr. Fetus. The game is divided into chapters containing over 300 levels, each requiring players to reach the end while avoiding saw blades, crumbling blocks, and other hazards. Players can jump, run on platforms, and slide down walls. Deaths are instant and levels restart immediately with unlimited attempts. Completing levels quickly unlocks harder alternate "dark world" versions, and hidden warp zones contain bonus stages. Additional playable characters with unique abilities can be unlocked through collectibles.