Nintendo on New 3D Mario for Switch 2: 'Stay Tuned'

Nintendo is stirring excitement among fans with hints of a new 3D Mario game on the horizon, although we'll have to wait for an official reveal. In a recent interview with CNN, Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser responded to the community's yearning for a new mainline Mario entry. While he didn't confirm a direct sequel to Super Mario Odyssey, Bowser's words suggest that fans might not have to wait too long to see more from Mario's world.

"Stay tuned," Bowser advised, hinting at Nintendo's extensive catalog and the potential for more of their beloved intellectual properties to make their way to the platform. While his statement isn't a definitive announcement, it offers hope to those disappointed by the absence of a new 3D Mario game in the Nintendo Switch 2 launch lineup. The unveiling of the new hybrid console earlier this month showcased exciting titles such as Donkey Kong Bananza and Mario Kart World, but a traditional 3D Mario platformer was noticeably missing.

It's been nearly eight years since the release of the last flagship Mario game, Super Mario Odyssey, which debuted just months after the original Switch's launch in October 2017. While games like Donkey Kong Bananza might temporarily fill the Mario-shaped void, many fans were eagerly anticipating news of a Super Mario Odyssey 2. However, given Mario's pivotal role in Nintendo's vast catalog, as mentioned by Bowser, it seems almost certain that a new 3D Mario game will emerge sooner rather than later.

As we await further announcements, you can keep an eye on 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 read our hands-on thoughts on Donkey Kong Bananza to stay engaged with Nintendo's latest offerings.