Nintendo is hinting that a new 3D Mario game might be on the horizon, but fans will need to exercise a bit more patience before they can lay their eyes on it. In a recent interview with CNN, Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser responded to the clamor for a new mainline Mario game. While he didn't confirm a direct sequel to Super Mario Odyssey, his comments suggest that fans might not have to wait too long for more news.
"Stay tuned," Bowser advised. "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 Bowser's words fall short of a concrete announcement, they offer a glimmer of hope for those who were disappointed by the absence of a new 3D Mario game in the Nintendo Switch 2's launch lineup. When Nintendo unveiled its new hybrid console earlier this month, it showcased exciting titles such as Donkey Kong Bananza and Mario Kart World, but a traditional 3D Mario platformer was conspicuously missing.
The most recent flagship Mario game, Super Mario Odyssey, was released in October 2017, shortly after the original Switch hit the market. It has been nearly eight years since the last major Mario release, and while games like Donkey Kong Bananza might help bridge the gap, they are no substitute for the eagerly awaited Super Mario Odyssey 2. Given Mario's pivotal role in Nintendo's extensive catalog, as Bowser pointed out, it would be surprising if a new 3D Mario game didn't surface in the near future.
As of now, a new mainline Mario adventure remains unrevealed. While we await further updates, you can explore Nintendo's updated Switch 2 pre-order schedule here in anticipation of the console's launch on June 5, 2025. In the meantime, delve into everything revealed during last week's Mario Kart World Direct and check out our hands-on thoughts on Donkey Kong Bananza.
