Nintendo is stirring excitement among fans with hints of a new 3D Mario game possibly on the horizon, although we'll need to wait a bit longer for an official reveal. In a recent interview with CNN, Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser addressed the community's longing for a new mainline Mario title. While he didn't confirm a direct sequel to Super Mario Odyssey, his comments suggest that fans won't have to wait too long to see what's next.
"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."
Though Bowser's remarks are not a definitive announcement, they offer a glimmer of hope for fans who were 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 titles like Donkey Kong Bananza, Mario Kart World, and others, but a traditional 3D Mario platformer was notably missing.
The last major flagship Mario game, Super Mario Odyssey, was released in October 2017, shortly after the original Switch's launch. With nearly eight years since the last big Mario release, while games like Donkey Kong Bananza may temporarily fill the gap, many fans are eager for a Super Mario Odyssey 2. Given Mario's pivotal role in Nintendo's extensive catalog, as mentioned by Bowser, it would be surprising if a new 3D Mario game didn't surface soon.
As we await further news on a new mainline Mario adventure, 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. Additionally, you can delve into everything revealed during last week’s Mario Kart World Direct and read our hands-on thoughts on Donkey Kong Bananza.
