Goomba

"So you think we're flimsy, huh? And you're going to "shred" us huh? Well, we'll just see about that!"

- Goomba

Goombas are one of the major species of the series and are among Mario and Luigi's most persistent foes. Since their first game appearance in Super Mario Bros., they have become one of the most iconic members of the Koopa Troop. Goombas resemble small, brown mushrooms and are a fungus-based species like Toads, Amanitas, Spooks, and Shroobs. Goombas are physically weak and are not much of a threat to Mario, since a single stomp usually defeats them, although a number of different Goomba sub-species have emerged throughout the years. The Goombas, as a collective race, used to be allied with the Mushroom Kingdom. However, many of the Goombas have turned traitorous and joined the Koopa Troop, an organization led by Bowser. In many games, Goombas are the first enemy the player meets.

However, not all Goombas are allied with Bowser or the Koopa Troop. Some Goombas, such as the inhabitants of Goomba Village, live peacefully inside the borders of the Mushroom Kingdom, while others simply hold no allegiance and operate independently in distant locales such as Rogueport and Monstro Town. Goombas, along with Koopa Troopas, Piranha Plants, Lakitus, Bullet Bills, Bob-ombs, and Boos have become some of the most well-known and iconic enemies in the entire Mario series, appearing in almost every title.

Creation
The Goomba was the last enemy created during the development process of Super Mario Bros. During development, the only basic enemy was the Koopa Troopa. However, play testers had stated that the Koopa Troopa was too tricky of an enemy to have as the first one. Using this, the developers decided to create an enemy that could be defeated with a single stomp. The Goomba itself was created with the appearance of a shiitake mushroom. Since the enemy was created toward the end of the development cycle, though, hardly any bytes remained on the cartridge. Therefore, to give the enemy moving animations, the developers reused and flipped the image, making it appear to be walking.

Super Mario Bros.
The original homeland of the Goombas is in the Mushroom Kingdom, which they share with the Toads. The two races lived in peace. However, at an unknown point in time, the Goombas betrayed their neighbors and joined the Koopa Troop. In Super Mario Bros., Goombas are the most common enemy. In the game, they appear in almost every level (except underwater levels and most castles). They can be defeated by jumping on them. They can also be defeated by throwing fireballs, Koopa Shells, or by hitting a block from below if they are on top of it. The user manual included with the game identifies them as Little Goomba, but no other Goombas had been introduced at this time.

Goombas in underground and castle areas look blue and grey respectively, indicating changes in lighting rather than a different breed of Goomba. Later games do introduce different types of Goombas, including blue, subterranean Gloombas, introduced in Paper Mario, which play the role of the Goombas in a Super Paper Mario level meant to represent Super Mario Bros.'s World 1-2.

If Mario or Luigi defeats the False Bowser of World 1's castle with fireballs, it turns into its true form, a Goomba, before falling into the lava.

If the player completes the game and plays it again in Hard Mode, Buzzy Beetles replace all the Goombas.

Goombas flip between two sprites, giving them the appearance of walking. The goombas in this game resemble mushrooms (notably, the Shiitake) more than most other sprites. They also seem to lack a mouth.

Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels
Goombas reappear in Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels. Although Buzzy Beetles are more prominent in the game, large numbers of Goombas also appear in packs of three or four.

Super Mario Bros. 3
After their absence in Super Mario Bros. 2, they reappear in Super Mario Bros. 3,where they can be found in all seven of the kingdoms of the Mushroom World. These Goombas are unchanged in behavior from their appearances in Super Mario Bros. and Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels. This game introduces the concept of Goomba sub-species such as: Paragoombas, winged Goombas that fly and drop Micro-Goombas; Grand Goombas, which are bigger but they can be defeated the same way; and Red Paragoombas, which can't fly, but can jump, unlike regular Goombas. The game marks the first time the Goombas' sprites are drawn with mouths.

The Goombas of World 5-3 use a device known as the Goomba's Shoe (previously known as the Kuribo's Shoe) to mimic the jumping abilities of Mario and Luigi. When in the green shoe, a Goomba can jump towards Mario and Luigi instead of walking into them. If Mario or Luigi defeats the Goomba by hitting a block underneath it, if it is standing on a block, the boot is left behind. Mario or Luigi can ride in this boot, allowing him to jump on spiked enemies and cross Muncher patches.

Super Mario World
Normal Goombas do not appear in Super Mario World; instead they are replaced by Galoombas, a species resembling Goombas in appearance and name. Galoombas, called Kuribon in the Japanese version of the game and "Goombas" in the original translation, are seemingly native to Dinosaur Land. They are rounder than normal Goombas and are knocked upside-down when jumped on, instead of being defeated. They are able to be picked up when in this state. In the Game Boy Advance port of the game, Super Mario Advance 2: Super Mario World, after all the goals in the game are found, Galoombas turn yellow and sport sunglasses.

Super Mario 64 / Super Mario 64 DS
Goombas return in Super Mario 64 (and Super Mario 64 DS) as common enemies. Notably, in the DS remake, Goomboss, the ruler of the Goombas, manages to capture Mario. Goomboss is eventually defeated by Yoshi, and Mario is rescued.

In these games, Goombas act slightly differently than the previous games. Instead of walking back and forth in a straight path, Goombas patrol a small area in a circular motion. When they spot Mario (Luigi, Wario or Yoshi), they charge at him, causing to lose one wedge of health. They can be defeated by jumping on them, or by an object at them such as a Bob-omb. Punches and Kicks are also effective. When destroyed, Goombas leave behind Yellow Coins (or in some levels in the remake, a Silver Star, bringing Mario closer to completing his goal).

In the remake, Super Mario 64 DS, Goombas sometimes wear a Mario, Luigi, or Wario cap. Upon defeating the Goomba, wearing the cap can transform the current character into the respective character. In these games, Goombas often appear in groups of two or three. Grand Goombas and Micro-Goombas also reappear in this game, and act like the regular Goombas in the game, but now, the Grand Goombas are stronger than regular Goombas, and Micro-Goombas are weaker, unlike in Super Mario Bros. 3. In addition, Grand Goombas leave behind a Blue Coin if a character Ground Pounds them.

New Super Mario Bros.
Goombas appear in New Super Mario Bros.. They act very similar to the ones in Super Mario Bros. Paragoombas and Micro-Goombas also reappear, but they act different. The Paragoombas chase Mario, however can only hop (they hop higher than the normal Goombas in this game when a chorus riff is heard), like the Red Paragoombas in Super Mario Bros. 3, and the Micro-Goombas are weaker versions of normal Goombas, like in Super Mario 64. The Mega Goomba, a Goomba mega-sized by Bowser Jr.'s Mega Mushroom, is one of the bosses Mario can fight in World 4. Goombas also make a short hop to the chorus riff in the background music. Strangely, they can hop high enough for them to avoid incoming Koopa Shells.

Super Mario Galaxy
Goombas appear in Super Mario Galaxy. There are several types of Goombas in Super Mario Galaxy. Normal Goombas act similar to the ones in Super Mario 64. When they see the player, they will attempt to cause damage by running into them. Goombas can be defeated by jumping on them, releasing a Coin. Spinning one or shooting a Star Bit at one flips it down, stunning it. At that point, the player can run into it to kick it and defeat it, releasing three Star Bits. Goombas appear in most galaxies, but in Space Junk Galaxy, the Goombas on the Yoshi Planet do not drop coins when they are defeated. In addition to the regular Goombas, Micro-Goombas appear as well. They have a round shape, which makes them look similar to Galoombas. They appear in some galaxies in Super Mario Galaxy, and they appear uncommonly in the game's successor, Super Mario Galaxy 2. They are weaker than other Goombas, and can be defeated with one spin, rather than being flipped, and they always leave behind a Coin when defeated. However, it is possible to get three Star Bits from one of these small Goombas, by kicking them while they are stunned. It is only possible to stun them by hitting the vibrating poles in Gateway Galaxy or by firing a Star Bit at them. A Grand Goomba also appears in the Gateway Galaxy.

Several alien subspecies of Goombas appear in this game as well. Octoombas and Goombeetles are common enemies and Jack O' Goombas appear in the haunted galaxies.

New Super Mario Bros. Wii
Goombas reappear in the game New Super Mario Bros. Wii, acting as their New Super Mario Bros. counterparts. Mega Goombas and Grand Goombas also reappear, but rather than being big like in Super Mario Galaxy, they have the same size as in Super Mario Bros. 3. The Goomba, Grand Goomba, and Mega Goomba can be encountered in the Enemy Course of World 1. In this Enemy Course it can be either eight Goombas, four Grand Goombas, or two Mega Goombas. Also, during the boss fight with Kamek, his magic can transform the platforms into Goombas, in addition to a variety of other enemies.

In addition, in the seventh level of World 9, there are Goombas inside spiked chestnuts encountered called Prickly Goombas. These chestnuts prevent them from being stomped on, but the Goombas can break out of their shells by a fireball from Fire Mario or a Venus Fire Trap.Also like how the Koopa Troopas do a cha cha, the goombas jump a tiny bit.

Super Mario Galaxy 2
Goombas reappear in Super Mario Galaxy 2, having the same roles as they had in the previous game. Grand Goombas, Octoombas, Goombeetles, and Jack O' Goombas reappear as well. Octoombas in this game, while visually identical to the Octoombas in the first game, now attack by spitting rocks. Paragoombas and Huge Paragoombas, which did not appear in the first game, also appear in the game. The lighter brown and rounder versions of Goombas also return, albeit not being as common as they were in the previous game, and they give out one Star Bit each instead of a coin when they are defeated with a Spin, although they still give out one coin when jumped on. In addition, stunning them with a Star Bit and then kicking them will still only yield one Star Bit as opposed to three as in the previous game. Also, in the mission "C'Mere, Goomba" in the Boulder Bowl Galaxy, a Gold Gearmo asks Mario to find a Goomba and bring it to it.

Chance Cubes also transform into Goombas if the player gets a Bowser emblem on it.

Super Mario 3D Land
Goombas make their reappearance in Super Mario 3D Land. Their behavior is the same as in the 3D Mario platforming games. Goomba boardsigns make their appearance as well, along with a new species, called Tail Goombas. It is possible to acquire a Super Leaf after defeating a Tail Goomba. A gold version of the Tail Goomba was planned to appear in the game, but it was removed in the final version.

On a side note, some Goombas are stacked up in a fashion similar to that of the Acks, Stackin' Stus, and Shy Stacks. These are called Goomba Towers. However, they still attack in the same manner as individual Goombas: by simply charging in the player's direction.

New Super Mario Bros. 2
Goombas reappear in the Nintendo 3DS game, New Super Mario Bros. 2, with two new variants. They maintain their appearance from New Super Mario Bros. Wii. Goombas become Gold Goombas when Mario goes through a Golden Ring. The Goomba will then produce coins when touched. Another new Goomba called the Bone Goomba appears, which mainly appear in Towers and Castles.

Goomba Towers return from Super Mario 3D Land and like a regular Goomba, Goomba Towers can be turned into a stack of Gold Goombas. Jumping on a Gold Goomba would yield 5 coins, with each consecutive jump adding more coins to other golden enemies. Blue Goombas also appear and they appear in the World Flower and World 6 Ghost Houses and in the Super Mario Bros. World 1-2 remake area of the Gold Classics Pack.

New Super Mario Bros. U
Goombas reappear in New Super Mario Bros. U. They maintain their appearance from New Super Mario Bros. Wii, but also have a lighter colored, rounded variety with black stems on their heads named Goombrats. Mega Goombas, Grand Goombas, and Prickly Goombas reappear as well.

Super Mario 3D World
Goombas also appear in Super Mario 3D World, behaving the same as they do in other 3D Mario platformers. Galoombas, which are the Goombas that appear in Super Mario World, and Micro-Goombas also appear. Additionally, a new type of Goomba, which is based around the cat transformation, also appears; these Goombas attack by leaping up and pouncing the player. Additionally, some Goombas are seen riding in ice skates, or sleeping in spiked life-preservers. A Goomba Mask also appears as an item; wearing it causes any Goombas near the player to not attack them.

Super Mario Bros.: Peach-hime Kyushutsu Dai Sakusen!
In the Japanese-exclusive anime movie Super Mario Bros.: Peach-hime Kyushutsu Dai Sakusen!, two Goombas, who work for King Koopa, appear throughout the film, attempting to halt Mario, Luigi, and Kibidango in their search for Princess Peach.

These two Goombas first appear shortly after Mario and Luigi start their quest and follow the Mario Bros. to a camp they have set up for a night's rest. Luigi, however, has grown hungry and is unable to sleep. The Goombas then trick Luigi by saying they are mushrooms, and Luigi, desperate for food, follow them into a small clearing filled with strange, emotion-inducing mushrooms. Luigi (and Mario, who eventually finds his brother in the mushroom field) is eventually kidnapped by a large Paratroopa.

The Goombas next appear right after Mario and Luigi have collected the Super Mushroom and have come to a fork in the road. Here the Goombas decide to give Mario and Luigi false directions and lead the brothers to a Piranha Plant-filled area.

The Goombas are seen next in a cave-like area where they leave a trail of Coins for the Mario Bros. Mario and Luigi follow this trail and end up in a larger cave, although the Goombas roll a rock up against the entrance of this cave, locking the Mario Bros. within it.

One of the Goombas' last efforts in the film comes when Mario and Luigi have reached Bowser's Castle. They activate a complex platform system over lava (with the inclusion of Podoboos), explaining that Mario has to jump over it to escape. Their plans are foiled, though, when Luigi (who is at the time mining for Coins) accidentally cause a huge flood through Bowser's Castle, putting out the lava and safely carrying the Mario Brothers on.

The Goombas of the movie are last seen being reprimanded by King Bowser for not stopping Mario and Luigi. They run away to parts unknown.

Super Mario Bros. (film)
Goombas appear in the live-action Super Mario Bros. movie. In the movie, they are portrayed as citizens of Dinohatten who have been de-evolved into slightly dim-witted but loyal members of President Koopa's army.

Super Mario Land
While the common Goombas did not appear in the game Super Mario Land, a Goomba species known as the Goombo did. They act very similar to Goombas in the Super Mario series.

Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins
Goombas (not Goombos) reappear in Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins. Terekuribōs are Boo-like Goomba ghosts that appear in Pumpkin Zone. Another variety of Goombas known as Aqua Goombas are also prominently featured in the final stage of the Turtle Zone.

Wario Land series
Another species similar to Goombas known as Gooms appear in Wario Land: Super Mario Land 3. These creatures highly resemble Goombas, except that most Gooms are round and have arms. Many types of Gooms have appeared throughout the Wario Land series. These include Pirate Gooms and Wanderin' Gooms. One notable Goom, known as the Giant Spear Man, is Syrup's high-ranking Goom in Wario Land II. Other types of Gooms include Wizards, Para-Gooms, Yarikuri Obake, and Spearheads. These three varieties appear in Wario Land 3.

WarioWare series
Goombas make cameos in the WarioWare series. In WarioWare, Inc.: Mega Microgame$!, they appear in the microgame Super Mario Bros., in which the player has to defeat the Goombas to win the microgame. In WarioWare: Twisted! in the boss game Super Mario Bros., they appear as enemies that try to defeat Mario, just as in Super Mario Bros.. In WarioWare: Touched! in the Super Mario Bros. microgame, they appear as one of the enemies that have to be defeated. They can defeated by tapping them with the stylus. Finally, in WarioWare: Smooth Moves in the third level of the microgame Super Mario Bros., a Goomba appears as an obstacle that Mario has to avoid, although sometimes it is replaced with a bottomless pit.

The Super Mario Bros. Super Show!
In The Super Mario Bros. Super Show!, Goombas are depicted as being weak soldiers in King Koopa's army. They accurately resemble the physical depiction of Goombas from the video games. Goombas change aliases depending on the plot, appearing as bikers, pirates, zombies, and ninjas.

The Adventures of Super Mario Bros. 3
The continuation of the original cartoon series, The Adventures of Super Mario Bros. 3, retain Goombas and their status as weak yet loyal soldiers.

Mario Ice Capades
Goombas appear in Mario Ice Capades as minions of King Koopa. In the end, the Mario Bros. defeat them as well as their leader.

Mario and the Incredible Rescue
Goombas appear in Mario and the Incredible Rescue as Bowser's henchmen once again. They are all defeated by Mario, Luigi, and Toad by the end of the book.

Nintendo Comics System
Goombas appear in several issues of Nintendo Comics System, though they are scarcely seen, having seemingly been pushed aside by Shy Guys as the main troops of Bowser's army.

Club Nintendo
Goombas make a minor appearance in the German Club Nintendo comics. Two of them are seen in the story "Super Mario: Erholung? Nein, danke!", on the island of Koopabiza. They, along with many other people and creatures, try to get to the beach. One of them is wearing a swimming ring. Also, the Gumba Royal Hotel on Koopabiza is named after the German spelling of the Goomba species.

Super Mario Adventures
In Super Mario Adventures, Goombas, resembling the ones seen in Super Mario World, appeared among the creatures sent to attack Princess Toadstool's Castle, and were also among the attendees to Bowser's marriage to the hypnotized Princess Toadstool.

Super Mario-Kun
In Super Mario-Kun (a manga series), Goombas make several appearances, while not being in every volume.

Nintendo Adventure Books
Goombas appear in several of the Nintendo Adventure Books, starting with Leaping Lizards, where a pair appear to attack Luigi when he first arrives in the Mushroom Kingdom, only to be sent running after being stomped. Some later scurry out of the way as the heroes head to Mushroom Palace, and several are also among the crowds at the International Mushroom Games held three weeks later.

Luigi fights off several Goombas on his way to Wendy O. Koopa's secret camp in the Magma Pits in Koopa Capers, and a Goomba scientist named Dr. Sporis Von Fungenstein appears as the main antagonist in Doors to Doom.

Some Goombas shrunken by Magikoopa are sent into Yoshi's body after Mario in Unjust Desserts; if Mario smashes a Yellow Shell while inside Yoshi, it will cause tremors that cause some Goombas and assorted other shrunken enemies to go careening around the dinosaur's innards.

Hotel Mario
Four varieties of Goomba appear in the game Hotel Mario. They aide Bowser in his attempt to transform the Mushroom Kingdom into his personal resort. Goombas guard the seven hotels set up by Bowser's Koopalings. In the game, Goombas attempt to prevent Mario from shutting down the seven Koopa Hotels. To do this, Mario has to shut all the doors in each hotel. Regular Goombas oppose his efforts by slowly walking to closed doors and opening them (as well as generally just getting in the Mario's way). Paragoombas (called Flying Goombas in this game) also appear. Two new types of Goomba, the Bellhop Goomba and the Rhinestone Goomba, make their only appearance in this game.

Yoshi
Goombas make an appearance in Yoshi. They are enemies in the A Type part of the game, as well as the B Type. Goombas are not main enemies in this game, they just make appearances throughout some parts of it and act like every other enemy in the game. As with the game's other enemies, Goomba's sprite in Yoshi is similar to its sprite from Super Mario Bros. 3.

Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Island
In Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Island and its remake Yoshi's Island: Super Mario Advance 3, Goombas appear, but they are not as common as Shy Guys and Koopa Troopas. Goombas only appear in one level: World 4-1 GO! GO! MARIO!! In this level, Goombas attempt to walk into Yoshi, knocking off Baby Mario and possibly having him kidnapped by a Toady. When Yoshi stomps on them, the Goomba flattens, but it is not defeated; they can even walk into and damage Yoshi even in this state. After some time, the Goomba "pops" and assumes its standard mushroom shape. These Goombas can be defeated with an egg toss, a Ground Pound attack, or Yoshi's tongue. Strangely, before Goombas jump off a ledge, they wiggle their eyebrows.

Yoshi's New Island
Goombas appear in Yoshi's New Island. Here, they are quite rare; in fact, they are only found in one level; Spin-Lift Drift. Unlike most titles, a single stomp does not defeat a Goomba; doing this simply flattens it, making it move faster. A ground pound, Yoshi's tongue, or an egg toss is required to defeat them.

Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars
Goombas are among the weakest members of the Koopa Troop in Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars. However, they are more powerful than the Terrapin. In the game, many Goombas are seen at Mushroom Way, the area between Bowser's Keep and the Mushroom Kingdom. Goombas, under the command of two Hammer Bros., patrol the paths of Mushroom Way. In fact, Toad himself is captured by a group of Goombas while the he is on his way to the Mushroom Kingdom. Other Goombas not loyal to the Koopa Troop reside in Bandit's Way, working as independent thieves. Wild Goombas live in the Pipe Vault, a secret area near Rose Town. Although as strong as the Goombas from Mushroom Way and Bandit's Way, these Goombas are encountered much later in the game. Other independent Goombas live in the caves of the Midas River. These Goombas are more concerned with catching the river's fish to eat than battling outsiders. In battle, Goombas attack enemies by biting. They can also shoot sharp thorns to cause 50% more damage than usual. . Goombas are fairly weak, and they can often be destroyed by a simple Timed Hit. A Goomba's bite attack can be blocked by defending right after the mushroom performed a somersault. The damage of a Goomba's thorn can be blunted by defending right before the projectile hits the party member. Additionally, Goombas typically fight in groups of two to three (either with other Goombas or stronger monsters). When defeated, Goombas often yield HP MAX! Flowers to Mario and his party.

Besides the small outpost at Mushroom Way, the Koopa Troop, as a whole, is actually on the verge of collapse. In the game, the Koopa Troop is devastated by the invasion of the extraterrestrial Smithy Gang. The gang chooses Bowser's Keep as their base-of-operations in Mario World. As a result, many enemies in the Koopa Troop switch sides to join the invaders while others simply ran away. One of the enemies that leaves the Koopa Troop is the Gu Goombas, who later become guards for the Smithy Gang. One Goomba deserter finds its way to Monstro Town, a community of reformed enemies. This lone Goomba sets up shop here, selling powerful Koopa-based armor and weapons. The Goomba is also aided by its three Goombette nephews, the Triplets (other Goombettes, not related to this Goomba, appeared in the Sunken Ship).

After the Koopa Troop is expelled from Bowser's Keep, Bowser himself attempts to reassemble the remains of his troop in Rose Way. Many Goombas remain loyal to Bowser and join him in his quest to retake the castle, but by the time the army reaches Moleville, many Goombas have abandoned Bowser. By the time Bowser reaches Booster Tower, all of Bowser's army (including all his Goombas) has deserted him. However, at the tower, Bowser decides to join forces with Mario, knowing that with the Mario's strength, he can get his keep back. Eventually, Bowser, Mario, Princess Peach, Mallow, and Geno find their way to Monstro Town. While in the town for reformed enemies, Bowser runs into the Goomba deserter who has set up shop in the village. The Goomba apologizes for deserting the Koopa Troop, but offers to sell Bowser powerful weapons and armor in return. Eventually, Bowser, with the help of Mario and his friends, manages to expel the Smithy Gang and defeat their leader, Smithy. With his keep returned, many former soldiers (including many Goombas) return to King Bowser and the Koopa Troop. In fact, many Goombas help rebuild Bowser's Keep to its former glory.

Mario Party series
Goombas are a common sight in the various Mario Party titles. Often, they appear in the background of minigames or they host minigames themselves. Goomba gets the biggest role in Mario Party 4, where it is one of the hosts.

Mario Party
In Mario Party, a Goomba hosts the Flower Lottery in Peach's Birthday Cake. In Crazy Cutter, a Goomba is one of the few shapes that players have to drill.

Mario Party 2
"TEN HUT! It's time for a battle minigame! First, let's decide how many coins to take."

- Goomba

In Mario Party 2, a Goomba appears to host the all the duel and battle minigames. Other than that, Goombas do not play a very major role in this game. A Goomba also makes an appearance in Mystery Land in the tail of a airplane.

Mario Party 3
Mario Party 3 also features Goombas. They still command Duel Minigames and Luigi's default partner is, in fact, a Goomba. The Goomba has an attack stat of 2, an HP stat of 1, and a salary of 2 coins per turn. Goombas make an appearance in Curtain Call, where the player has to memorize the order of them and other enemies on a stage. Paragoombas appear in Ridiculous Relay as obstacles. In Slot Synch, if players get a Goomba icon, they get one point. In Game Guy's Roulette a Goomba icon is one of the six icons the player can guess where the shell can go.

Mario Party 4
In Mario Party 4, Goomba appears as one of the hosts of the Party Cube, along with Toad, Boo, Shy Guy and Koopa Troopa. He wears a glittery pink top hat and a glittery pink vest and hosted both Goomba's Greedy Gala and the minigame room. In the minigames, Goombas appear in Long Claw of the Law as an outlaw, GOOOOOOOAL!! as a crowd member and Goomba's Chip Flip in Story Mode, as the character being fought against. A Goomba is also the referee in the Beach Volley Folley minigame.

Mario Party 5
The Goomba Engine and the Goomba-Trio Engine are two of the many engines the player can purchase for a machine in Super Duel Mode. Typically, the engine offers acceleration and speed in exchange for control. The Goomba Tires are fairly fast and they boast good acceleration, but other abilities are average. The Goomba Capsule, if landed on, makes the player swap coins with another randomly chosen opponent. They can be used on a player for five coins.

Goombas feature prominently in a minigame called Hotel Goomba, where they serve as obstacles that the player must punch to get through. A Goomba is a 30-feet marker in Triple Jump. Goombas appear as part of the background in Will Flower, Fight Cards and Random Ride. Goombas also feature prominently in Mathletes as the crowd and the host of the minigame. Players direct the movement of a Goomba or Paragoomba robot using slots in Quilt for Speed. In Clock Stoppers a Goomba is one of the three characters that appear when a team gets the clock hands matching the center one. Goombas appear as one of the contents of a can in Mario Can-Can. In Panic Pinball, Goombas appear on the top of the slot. When they are flattened by a pinball, they start the slots. Also, in Beach Volley Folley, the Goomba remains a referee.

Mario Party 6
The Goomba Orb makes a reappearance in Mario Party 6, but its function is different. If an opponent lands on the player's Goomba Orb space, the opponent must determine how much coins he or she has to give to the player by rolling a dice block. Goombas appear in the background in Thirsty Gulch. Goombas are one of the enemies featured in Odd Card Out, where players must guess which card is different from the other two. They also appear as part of the crowd in that minigame. Players have to take pictures with the most Goombas in Freeze Frame. In Trap Ease Artist, players capture Goombas or Gold Goombas to earn points. Goombas appear in the background in Sunday Drivers, Stage Fright, and Dunk Bros.. In Word Herd the lone player must direct Goombas away from the other three attacking players. Goombas appear in clean windows during the day in Clean Team. Goombas host Control Schtick. Goomba-shaped asteroids appear in Mass Meteor. The player has to rescue a Goomba in Lab Brats.

Mario Party Advance
In Mario Party Advance, one task the player must do is to obtain a train ticket and give it to a Goomba in the Goomba House. Goomba will then give the player the Gaddget Egg Roll when he is given the ticket. The ending says that he was made the new guide for Shroom City.

Goombob is a Goomba that looks similar to the Goombas in Super Mario World. He lives in the Goombob Manor. The player must find a seashell on a beach and give it to Goombob and his girlfriend, Goombetty. The ending states the Goombob is considering moving to the beach with Goombetty, and the Goombetty is madly in love with Goombob, and collects seashells.

Goombas also appear in the minigame Floor It!, where the player must direct them to the correct floor. A Goomba hosts the minigame Volleybomb.

Mario Party 7
The Goomba Orb does not appear in this game. Goomba figures can be bought from the Duty-free Shop. A Goomba appears in the background in Big Dripper, where it is being chased by bees. Goombas appear in the background in Kart Wheeled, Dart Attack, Weight for It, and Light Speed. They host the minigame Clock Watchers. Goombas appear as one type of card in Cardinal Rule. Players have to ground-pound Goombas and a Gold Goomba in Royal Rumpus, but the Gold Goomba is worth more points, but is more difficult to stomp. Goombas are one of the pictures players have to match in Spin Off.

Mario Party 8
Goomba has a board of its own in Goomba's Booty Boardwalk. Captain Goomba is the goal in this board. Other Goombas either hinder the player or help the player. Goombas appear in the background in Chump Rope, Swing Kings, Blazing Lassos, and Fruit Picker. Players have to shoot Goombas with paint in Paint Misbehavin' to win. In Lob to Rob, players hit Mushroom icons to gain points. Goomba pictures subtract points. Goombas chase the loser at the end of the minigame. Goombas help the player make a basket in Settle It in Court. Goombas appear as one of the nine rescue-able enemies in Specter Inspector. A Goomba is one of the racers in Moped Mayhem.

Mario Party DS
In the Nintendo DS game Mario Party DS, the Goombas take large role in various minigames that occurred during the event. One of the minigames they appear is Goomba Wrangler where they are used as points. The players must capture them by circling them using the stylus to gain points. Goombas (referred to as Brown Goombas in the instructions) are worth one point and move slowly when the minigame starts. Golden Goombas are worth three points and move faster; they appear later during the minigame. More Goombas arrive in this very spot from the staircases as the time goes by. However, they can be deducted by circling a Bob-omb. Depending on the points the player receives, the player may lose the ordinary Goombas or the rare Golden Goombas at that time resulting it to be knocked out from the player's container.

A Goomba also appears in a minigame called Soccer Survival. A large Goomba is the goalie and shoots soccer balls at the players. The object of the game is to avoid the soccer balls that the Goomba kicks to the players.

Goombas also appear in another minigame Call of the Goomba where they are lured by one of the players; they are also used as points. They appear in the middle of the field, and there are players away from them. The Goombas can be lured by players by using the music box to make the closest speed of the music as possible. They are lured if they listened to the colorful notes from one of the players. The lured creatures cannot return back into the field once they are caught by a player. If one of the Goombas hears a closest music than the weak music tune, the Goombas rather go towards the player who makes a closest speed of the music. The player who has the most Goombas wins.

In the minigame Plush Crush, the Goomba appears as a plush that uses one space during in the minigame. The plush can be carried by a player's mechanical grabber. It can be used to try to block the solo player's paths or to defeat the player by dropping this plush.

In another minigame Double Vision, Goombas occasionally appear as one of the three trace drawings for the two players to complete. The two players have to work together to trace the creature, the players all have a different color for them to trace in certain parts of this drawing.

In the last minigame in appearance Shorty Scorers, wooden Goombas appear as a goalkeeper at both of the goals. They automatically move at the left and the right side. The goalkeeper's job is to try to block the ball the players try to get a goal.

Mario Party 9
In the Wii game Mario Party 9 Goombas play a small role, being seen mostly in minigames. One such minigame is Goomba Bowling, where the player must toss a Koopa Shell across a bridge to hit the Goombas. They also appear in Goomba Spotting and Goomba Village, the former involving counting the number of Goombas that pass by the player, and the latter involving trying to guess which Toad House contains the most Goombas. The Goomba also has its own constellation that can be bought in the museum, named "Ground Soldier." In Toad Road, random Goombas jump, looking at the vehicle.

Mario Party: Island Tour
Goombas reappear in the game Mario Party: Island Tour for the Nintendo 3DS. They appear in the minigame Git Along, Goomba, as obstacles that the player must lasso. They also appear as tiles in both of the minigames Match Faker and Tap Dash, appear in the minigame Starring Artist as one of the many constellations, and appear in a bubble in the minigame Spin the Bubble. They also appear in the AR Card Minigame Ka-Goomba!.

Super Smash Bros.
Goombas appear in the first Super Smash Bros.. They are seen in the background of the secret Mushroom Kingdom stage. These Goombas are rendered as 2-D NES-style sprites.

Super Smash Bros. Melee
Goombas have a minor role in Super Smash Bros. Melee. Very rarely, a Goomba emerges from a Party Ball or a Crate, instead of an item. The Goomba then walks around the stage, damaging fighters until being defeated. Goombas are also featured prominently in the first level of Adventure Mode, the Mushroom Kingdom. As in the traditional Mario games, Goombas in this game can be defeated by any stomp or simple attack. A Goomba trophy can also be collected in the game by completing Event Match #14: Trophy Tussle 1, the battle taking place on a giant Goomba trophy.

Super Smash Bros. Brawl
Goombas appear in the next game of the series, Super Smash Bros. Brawl. They play another small role as in the previous game. They try to get in the players' way by bumping into them, similar to their purpose in most Mario games. Most of these Goombas work for Bowser, and they help him steal the Banana Hoard, but some aid Tabuu in defense of The Great Maze. Giant Goombas, who are bigger, stronger versions of Goombas also make an appearance in the Subspace Emissary.

Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS
Goombas appear as enemies in the Smash Run mode exclusive to Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS. They attack by charging into the player, and can be defeated by attacking them or with a single stomp. Giant Goombas also once again appear as enemies in this mode.

Paper Mario
Goombas are a part of Bowser's army during his attempt to take the Mushroom Kingdom with the power of the Star Rod in the game Paper Mario. In fact, many varieties of Goombas aid Bowser. Goomboss (this time named the Goomba King) returns, commanding a large group of Goombas that reside in Goomba Road, the pathway between Goomba Village and Toad Town. Besides regular Goombas, he controls a large number of Paragoombas and Spiky Goombas, Goombas that wear spiked helmets to counter Mario's jumping ability. His two loyal henchmen, Red Goomba and Blue Goomba, appear in the game as well. A new sub-species of Goomba, known as the Gloomba, is also introduced. These dark Goombas live underground. The underground also includes Paragloombas and Spiky Gloombas. Hyper Goombas, green-colored Goombas similar to the Gu Goombas, are first seen in this game. These powerful Goombas can charge their attack power. Again, Hyper Goombas have a Hyper Paragoomba and a Hyper Spiky Goomba variant.

The regular brown Goombas of Paper Mario behave similarly to their counterparts in Super Mario 64. They patrol a small area, and upon seeing Mario, they can charge at him. In battle, Goombas attack by using the "Headbonk" technique. They jump in the air, then dive into Mario, bonking their head against him. This attack can be blocked by defending just as the Goomba's head touches Mario. If he is struck by the attack, Mario takes one HP of damage. At the beginning of the game, it requires two stomps or two Hammer strikes to defeat a Goomba (as Goombas only have two HP). However, after Mario learns how to use Action Commands, he only needs one timed attack to defeat one of them.

Although Goombas are normally fought at the beginning of the game, one Goomba can be fought much later than expected. At one point, Bowser asks Princess Peach what Mario fears most. One of Peach's choices is "A Goomba", and if she picks this, Kammy Koopa warps a Goomba to Shy Guy's Toy Box. Although Kammy expresses doubt that the Goomba will scare Mario away, she leaves the Goomba in charge of defending a Treasure Box. When Mario eventually arrived, the Goomba is quickly defeated by him.

Despite the large number of Goombas loyal to the Koopa Troop, Paper Mario notably features the first community of peaceful Goombas. This Goomba community is vital in defeating Bowser and freeing the Mushroom Kingdom. It is the family of Goombas (composed of Goompa, Gooma, Goompapa, Goomama, Goombaria, and Goombario) living in peaceful Goomba Village that first discovered Mario unconscious after the his initial defeat from Bowser. These Goombas nurse Mario back to full strength and provides him with a Hammer to fight the Koopa Troop. The family also allows Mario to take Goomnuts from their village; these nuts can be used by Mario to recover his FP. Goombario, a young Goomba and personal admirer of Mario, even joins the hero on his adventure. His Tattle ability is valuable, as he provides hints on how to defeat certain enemies. With Goombario's (among others) help, Mario is able to defeat Bowser and save the Mushroom Kingdom.

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door
Mario runs into a number of Goombas in Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door. These Goombas lives in a town known as Rogueport. Many of these Goombas are independent thieves, bandits, crooks, cheats, and "cleaners." These ones wear green hats, similar to the hat Link wears. Although not the best of company, these Goombas from Rogueport do not attack Mario. However, the Goombas that live in the Rogueport Sewers or in Petal Meadows are very aggressive. Goombas behave just as their Paper Mario counterparts and are not much of a threat, since Mario can perform Action Commands from the beginning of the game. All the Goomba sub-species featured previously in Paper Mario also return in this game.

Although a large number of either aggressive or simply seedy Goombas appear in the game, The Thousand-Year Door features two Goombas that aid Mario in his adventure. His first partner to do so is Goombella, a female college student from the University of Goom. She actually joins Mario on his quest to find the legendary treasure hidden beneath the town of Rogueport (as well as rescue Princess Peach, who has been captured by the Secret Society of the X-Nauts). Her Goomba teacher, from Goomba University Professor Frankly, also helps Mario by interpreting the Magical Map, allowing the him to find the next Crystal Star and continue his journey.

Super Paper Mario
Goombas appear in the game Super Paper Mario. In this adventure, Goombas are the first enemies to be battled. They are slightly less common then the Squiglets. Goombas also appear in the Flipside Pit of 100 Trials in rooms 2 and 5. Their HP is lowered to 1 in this game, but attack and defense stay the same from previous Paper Mario titles. Some of the Goombas in this game have the ability to Flip, just like Mario. This game also introduces Headbonk Goombas, which are throwbacks to the previous two Paper Mario games, as the Goombas' main attack is the Headbonk, and Dark Goombas, the dark versions of Goombas that appear in the Flopside Pit of 100 Trials.

Paper Mario: Sticker Star
Goombas reappear in the game Paper Mario: Sticker Star for the Nintendo 3DS. Their appearance is closer to that of the Goombas of the mainstream Mario games; their feet are now brown instead of red and their eyebrows are not as thick as in the previous Paper Mario games. However, as shown in early builds of this game, they were going to retain their past Paper Mario appearance with no changes.

In this game, regular Goombas are stronger and have more HP than their previous appearances and are seen in World 6, World 2, World 1 and World 3 making them one of the most common enemies. Goombas can now turn into Paper-Cone Goomba, pointed Goombas that resembles paper airplanes and even fly toward Mario, and a 2-Fold Goomba. Mural Goombas and Shiny Goombas also debut in the game as well. Like the two Paper Mario games, the Goomba's only attack is by Headbonking Mario. If a Goomba's attack misses, it will roll over. Some Goombas fight alone but they do aid Koopa Troopas, Buzzy Beetles and Spinies. It is possible to find a Goomba that aids not only an enemy in red robes but with a gasmask as well. Some Goombas also hide in bushes and will suprise and possibly scare the player by jumping out of the bush.

A trio of Goombas are fought in Decalburg to demonstrate the sticker mechanic. These same Goombas also guard the first Comet Piece in the game. The Megasparkle Goomba, a Goomba who went insane from a Royal Sticker, serves as the first major boss of the game. There are also two Goombas that assist the mini-boss in Water's Edge Way.

Mario Kart series
Goombas have appeared in various Mario Kart games. They appear in several courses, acting as obstacles to racers and cause a kart to spin out if hit. In most games, if a Goomba is hit by an item, it drops a Mushroom on the track, giving a kart a speed boost when picked up. Goomboss from Super Mario 64 DS appears in Mario Kart DS as a boss in Mission Mode. In Mario Kart Super Circuit, Goombas only appear in the audience when the player gets on the podium in a cup. Grand Goombas and cardboard cut-outs of Goombas also appear in Mario Kart 7. Goomba Towers appear at the end of Mario Circuit in Mario Kart 8, and also replace the Porcupines as obstacles in Yoshi Valley.

Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga
A group of Goombas join Bowser as he attempts to track down Cackletta in Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga. These Goombas hold tutorial battles with Mario and Luigi in the Koopa Cruiser, who happens to join the Bowser in his search for Cackletta (as the she has stolen Princess Peach's voice). These Goombas are patrolling the halls of the cruiser or simply hiding in barrels. The Goombas engage in battles with the Mario Bros., to get some training before the Mario Bros. battle Fawful. In battle, a Goomba approaches either Mario or Luigi, somersaults towards him, then bite. This attack can be dodged by jumping after the Goomba opened its mouth. To counter the attack, Mario or Luigi would have to jump right when the Goomba's mouth opened. They each have 4 HP. The Goombas did not see much action after that, since the Koopa Cruiser is shot down by Fawful before Cackletta is engaged in combat.

Although traditional, Koopa Troop-loyal Goombas did not appear throughout the rest of the game, a number of wild sub-species are located in Beanbean Kingdom. The Tanoombas resided just north of Beanbean Castle Town. Another sub-species, known as the Gritty Goomba, lives in the Teehee Valley and Gwarhar Lagoon regions of the Beanbean Kingdom. These Goombas are covered in bandages and have the ability to conjure sandstorms to distort opponents. The ones in Gwarhar Lagoon are slightly stronger than those in Teehee Valley.The last Beanbean Kingdom sub-species is the Goomdiver. Unlike most Goombas, these creatures can reside underwater since they wear special scuba diving gear. Mario and Luigi encounters Goomdivers in Oho Ocean.

Mario & Luigi: Partners in Time
Goombas act as castle guards during the Shroob invasion, as depicted in the game Mario & Luigi: Partners in Time. In this adventure, Goombas are considered the weakest member of the Koopa Troop. They patrol the halls of Baby Bowser's Castle, attacking any intruder who enters Prince Bowser's castle. To attack, a Goomba runs into the Mario Bros. They can be countered with a Jump attack. Goombas are sometimes aided in battle by Boos. Other Goomba sub-species are featured in the game. The Tanoomba returns from Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga and appears in Thwomp Mountain. The invading Shroobs also created their own version of the Tanoomba known as the Tashrooba. This dark sub-species serve as guards inside Shroob Castle, the conquered, Shroobified version of Princess Peach's Castle.

Additionally, in the present-time events of Mario & Luigi: Partners in Time, Goombas appear in Princess Peach's Castle Dungeon. Although weak, these Goombas are slightly stronger, and they attack faster than their counterparts from Baby Bowser's Castle. These are the only non boss battles that can be fought in the present Mushroom Kingdom.

Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story
Goombas return in this game as one of Bowser's special attacks, where the player has to touch Goombas to light them on fire and send them upward. The enemy takes damage for each Goomba it is hit with. Fawful captures some Goombas and brainwashes them, while other ones are put in a cage in Dimble Wood. Bowser also encounters two new subspecies, the Chuboombas, fat Goombas that carry lollipops, and Choombas, Goombas that resemble steam engine trains and gain speed in their charge, even after Bowser punches them. Also, another, similar species, called Goombules, are found inside Bowser. Jailgoons are living cage enemies containing either a Goomba or a Bob-omb.

The top screen of Mario and Luigi's Special Attacks tutorials show a Goomba being defeated by the Special Move.

Mario & Luigi: Dream Team
Goombas reappear as enemies in Mario & Luigi: Dream Team. Like a select few enemies, Goombas do not appear on the field, and can only be fought by getting into a battle with a Fly Guy or Durapurl. In battle, Goombas charge into Mario and Luigi without pausing. If they look in Mario's direction and tilt back, they're going to charge at Mario. If they look at Luigi's direction and tilt forward, they're going to charge at Luigi. Since Goombas are still weak they can cause the trip status effect.

Goombas attack in unison with Fly Guys differently depending on whether or not there are Goombas present in the battlefield. If there are not any Goombas present, a Fly Guy will fly high into the sky to reappear flying back into the battlefield from the background, now air-lifting a Goomba in its grip, who it'll drop in line with Mario and Luigi from Mario's left for them both to charge one after another at Mario and Luigi. Dodging the Goomba requires Mario and Luigi to jump before it hits them. Dodging the Fly Guy requires Mario and Luigi to not jump into it while trying to dodge the Goomba, and to just idle as it goes by. This attack takes up the Fly Guy's attack turn.

If there is, a Fly Guy will pick up a nearby Goomba, fly above Mario or Luigi, and bomb the Goomba on them, which must be countered by smacking the Goomba into the sand before it lands on the targeted Bro. Regardless of whether the former part of the attack was countered or not, if the Goomba wasn't defeated due to the counter-attack, it will then either run at the targeted Bro. again or if the Goomba has stars around its head, it will charge into the Bro. who wasn't targeted. This attack takes up the Fly Guy's attack turn.

Goombas have weaker versions early in the game known as Grombas

A stronger variation of Goombas called Goomba Rs appear later on in the game.

Mario Baseball series
Goombas are playable characters in Mario Superstar Baseball, making use of a baseball bat and a glove which it levitates to make up for its lack of arms. Paragoombas are also playable characters in the game, and are shown to have slightly higher-pitched voices. Goomba has the Ball Dash ability, where it can run very fast and possibly tag any runners out when carrying the ball. Goomba is a balanced character with above-average running, but is slightly weak in all the other stats.

Both Goombas and Paragoombas return in the sequel, with slightly above average pitching and fielding abilities. However, Goomba seems to be slightly slower than it was in Mario Superstar Baseball. Goomba's Ball Dash ability returns in this game. The Mario Baseball series is the only time Goombas are playable in the Mario sports games

Super Princess Peach
In Super Princess Peach, Princess Peach has to fight the Koopa Troop while attempting to rescue Mario, Luigi and Toads. In the game, Bowser has acquired the Vibe Scepter from Vibe Island, and he uses its power to attack Princess Peach's Castle. A lone Goomba leads an army of Hammer Bros. in an assault on the castle, using the power of the Vibe Scepter to debilitate the castle guards. The attack is successful, and Mario, Luigi, and multiple castle Toads are captured by the Hammer Bros. Fortunately, Princess Peach and her attendant Toadsworth escapes the assault. Princess Peach decides to rescue her friends, and she is given a magical umbrella named Perry to help her in her quest. Once again, Goombas, among other enemies, attempt to stop her in her travels around Vibe Island. She can throw the Goomba at another enemy, hit the Goomba with Perry, or have the umbrella eat the Goomba. Paragoombas, as well as a new variety the Red Paragoomba, appear in the game as well. Princess Peach also battles with a number of emotional varieties of Goomba, all affected by the power of the Vibe Scepter (which is accidentally released across the island by the Goomba who leads the attack on Mushroom Castle). These emotional Goombas include the Mad Goomba, the Sad Goomba, the Sad Paragoomba, and the Mad Red Paragoomba.

Mario Golf: World Tour
In Mario Golf: World Tour, Goombas appear as NPC characters in the Castle Club game mode. Their name can also appear on the tournament scoreboard.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker
Goombas, regaining their traits from Super Mario 3D World, will return as enemies in Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker. Goomba Towers and the Goombas in life preservers return.

Mario Maker
Goombas are set to reappear in Mario Maker, acting similarly to their appearance in 2D platformers, as enemies that can be placed in the course by the player. Goomba Towers and Paragoombas are also going to reappear.

The Legend of Zelda series
Goombas have also appeared elsewhere. In The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening, Goombas reside in various underground passages and dungeons on Koholint Island alongside Piranha Plants. Link can either jump on a Goomba to defeat it or slash it with his sword. When Link uses the Roc's Feather to jump on a Goomba, he receives a Recovery Heart. This Goomba smiles unlike other Goombas.

Super Mario Chess
In Super Mario Chess, Goombas appear as rooks on Bowser's team.

Wii Fit Plus / Wii Fit
Goombas appear in the bicycle minigame where they are near the start and the tunnel.

Traits and abilities
"'Marching straight ahead into the enemy's feet!' Didn't you memorize that in Goomba boot camp?"

- Bowser

Goombas are a fungus-based species capable of speech. They resemble brown mushrooms (or chestnuts, hence their Japanese name) with two feet but no arms and are specifically based on the shiitake mushroom. Goombas have large faces that occupy most of their mushroom caps, while their stems attach their heads to their feet. A defining feature are their black bushy eyebrows that form a scowl. They also have two upward-pointing fangs that sometimes resemble braces. Both Goombas and Toads are fungus-based, and both originated from the Mushroom Kingdom (although, as mentioned, the Goomba race betrayed their homeland many years ago).

Goombas are among the most basic enemies. They can typically be defeated with a single punch, stomp, or fireball attack, although in some games, they are a bit more resilient. When jumped on, Goombas usually flatten before being defeated. They are particularly weak against fire magic, as seen in Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars. Although Goombas are physically weak, they are very adaptable. Regular Goombas have been encountered in almost all types of terrain, while many sub-species have emerged perfectly suited for certain environments.

Goombas' main form of attack is walking into their opponents. Rarely, a Goomba walks off a ledge and falls on its enemy. A Goomba's only real strength is that it works in large groups to attack an enemy. This forces the opponent to be much more cautious as he or she fights the group. In some games, Goombas have additional attacks such as biting and spitting thorns from their mouths in Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars. In the [Mario & Luigi series, various Goombas attack by charging with a headbutt, biting, rolling, and kicking. In Paper Mario and Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door, Goombas gain the ability to headbonk enemies.

While not as often as Shy Guys, Goombas do occasionally use tools to aid them. Despite their lack of arms, Goombas are shown to be able to pick up and use various objects. One part of technology the Goombas use is the parachute. The parachute allows a large number of Goombas to swarm enemy territory from the sky. Goombas using life preservers, and Goomdivers are equiped to adapt to water. Goombas have developed a number of tools to counter the jumping ability of the Mario Bros.: The Goomba's Shoe allows them to imitate Mario and Luigi, while the spiked hat seen in the Paper Mario series counters any jump attack (unless Mario is wearing a Spike Shield badge). Gritty Goombas have attached spears to their heads to counter stomp attacks as well.

Etymology
The name "Goomba" is the same as the Italian slang word "goombah". This term was used by Italian-Americans to describe themselves (although the term has also emerged as a derogatory word used against Italian-Americans). The term "goombah" originated from the Italian word "compare" (abbreviated as "compa") which literally means "friend",an other definition for "goombah" is a member of a criminal gang. Coincidentally, the Hungarian word for mushroom is "gomba".

Related items

 * Goomba's Shoe (previously known as Kuribo's Shoe) - ''Super Mario Bros. 3
 * Goomnut - ''Paper Mario

Trivia

 * Goombas are the only enemies in the original Super Mario Bros. game to have two different "defeated" sprites: one showing it being flattened after being stomped by Mario/Luigi, and the other simply being flipped upside-down.
 * The Hungarian word for mushroom is "gomba".