Excitement is building among fans as Nintendo hints at the possibility of a new 3D Mario game being in development. During a recent interview with CNN, Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser addressed the community's longing for a new mainline Mario entry. Although he didn't confirm a direct sequel to Super Mario Odyssey, Bowser suggested that fans might not have to wait too long for more news on this front.
“Stay tuned,” Bowser encouraged. “You know, we have a long, long catalog, and a long list of (intellectual property) that I’m sure will make its way to the platform.”
While these comments don't serve as a definitive announcement, they offer a glimmer of hope for those disappointed by the absence of a new 3D Mario game in the Nintendo Switch 2 launch lineup. When Nintendo unveiled its next-generation hybrid console earlier this month, it showcased exciting titles such as Donkey Kong Bananza and Mario Kart World. However, a traditional 3D Mario platformer was notably missing from the reveal.
It's been nearly eight years since the release of the last flagship Mario game, Super Mario Odyssey, which launched just months after the original Switch in October 2017. While games like Donkey Kong Bananza may temporarily fill the void, many fans are eagerly awaiting news of a Super Mario Odyssey 2. Given Mario's significant role in Nintendo's extensive catalog, as mentioned by Bowser, it would be surprising if a new 3D Mario game didn't surface in the near future.
As we await further announcements, you can stay updated by checking Nintendo’s revised Switch 2 pre-order schedule here ahead of the console's launch on June 5, 2025. In the meantime, dive into everything revealed during last week’s Mario Kart World Direct and read our hands-on thoughts on Donkey Kong Bananza.
