Checkpoint Flag

The Checkpoint Flag (or Midway Flag) is a recurring object that signifies a checkpoint in several Mario games. They are similar to the Midway Gates from Super Mario World. If Mario or Luigi lose a life after passing a Checkpoint Flag, they will restart at the point in the level in which the Checkpoint Flag is positioned.

Checkpoint Flags first appeared in New Super Mario Bros. They appeared as white flags with a picture of a Mushroom on them, though not all courses had them.

Checkpoint Flags reappeared once again in New Super Mario Bros. Wii. In this game, they appear as black flags with Bowser's symbol on them. When Mario, Luigi or one of the Toads touches one, the Bowser symbol will be replaced by the symbol for whatever character touched it. Depending on the character that touched it first, the player may also receive 2,000 points. Additionally, if Mario is currently Small Mario, he will become Super Mario when the Checkpoint Flag is activated.

They reappear again in Super Mario Galaxy 2 and feature almost the same appearance and function as in New Super Mario Bros. Wii. Like in that game, when Mario or Luigi touches a flag, the Bowser symbol will change to their respective symbol (a "M" or "L" symbol). Depending on which galaxy the player is in, there may be anywhere from one to several Checkpoint Flags positioned from the beginning of the level to the end of the level. Some levels, such as "The Perfect Run" in the Grandmaster Galaxy, may not feature any Checkpoint Flags at all.

Trivia

 * In Super Mario Galaxy 2, Checkpoint Flags don't always have to be activated by Mario or Luigi walking into them; they can also be activated by the Co-Star Luma or by Yoshi's tongue.