Feather

From SMWiki

Super Mario World Sprite
Feather
Sprite number(s)	77
Type	Normal sprite
GFX file(s)	GFX00 (SP1)
Palette(s)	A

A feather is an item in Super Mario World that, when collected, turns Mario into Cape Mario. However, if Mario is already in Cape Mario form, the feather will be added to the reserve box in the status bar on top of the screen.

Feathers can be obtained from green ! blocks, certain ? blocks, and certain turn blocks when Mario is not small.

Obtaining a feather gives Mario the ability to break turn blocks using a spin jump, and "hit" turn blocks directly beside him. Cape Mario can also show down his decent by using the cape (holding down the jump button). It also temporarily protects Mario from death should he hit an enemy.

Cape Mario can also fly if he runs and then jumps. While flying, Mario can ascend briefly by pushing the button opposite to the direction he's flying, thus allowing him to fly in the air forever. Mario can also do a dive-bomb that kills all on-screen enemies by pressing and holding the button in the direction he is moving. This maneuver can also be used to ascend rapidly by pressing in the opposite direction immediately after.

The feather is seen as one of the most useful items in the game, and in hacks, it is frowned upon if given in early levels. Many hacks do not use feathers at all (Fire Flowers are used instead.). Feathers can also be used to fly over levels with open skies, so level design that can prevent this is encouraged.