Dream Event

Dream Events are events in the Mario & Sonic series that are loosely based on Olympic Events and prominently feature elements from both the Mario and series as part of the event. This often includes items being used or enemies and obstacles appearing in the event. The events take place either in existing places from the two series or in new locations created for the games. The events are unlockable in the first two instalments, but are available from the start in the third and fourth ones.

Duel Events
In the Wii U version of Mario & Sonic at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, Duel Events appear instead of Dream Events. Duel Events focus on earning Duel Points, which are gained by attacking other players or scoring in the same way as in the sport the event is based on.
 * Duel Beach Volleyball
 * Duel Football
 * Duel Rugby Sevens

Plus Events
In the Nintendo 3DS version of Mario & Sonic at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, Plus Events appear instead of Dream Events. Plus Events take place in the same locations as the original event, but feature items or obstacles on top of the regular event's original gameplay.
 * 100m Plus
 * 110m Hurdles Plus
 * Long Jump Plus
 * Javelin Throw Plus
 * 100m Freestyle Swimming Plus
 * Beach Volleyball Plus
 * Table Tennis Plus
 * Football Plus
 * Boxing Plus
 * Rhythmic Gymnastics Plus
 * BMX Plus
 * Equestrian Plus
 * Archery Plus
 * Golf Plus