I am spending time making a game that is small and simple, and even a clone of another game. The purpose being to practice my development skills, the pipeline of creating and releasing games.

BUT

How do I practice my design skills? What do I think the player will do with the game as provided? How can i make this game more compelling?

How do I get the player to WANT to stay on the platforms? what if it was a king of the hill situation, where players gained score while on the platforms but instead of being "out" when they fell, they respawned and got back in the ring? Players should be able to punch others off of the platforms, or ground pound them into being stuck for a moment.

Should the game go forever? it should end at some point. Maybe when there's a commanding lead? Maybe as you go on you get slower? The mushrooms are affecting your ability to play the game, pushing you in incorrect ways, or just making you slower.

What is the prize for winning though? Nirvana. Absence of pain lol.