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

Nintendo is stirring excitement among fans with hints that a new 3D Mario game might be on the horizon, though we'll need to wait a bit longer for official confirmation. In a recent interview with CNN, Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser addressed the clamor for a new mainline Mario game. Although he didn't explicitly confirm a sequel to Super Mario Odyssey, his comments suggest that fans won't have to wait too long for more news.

"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 remarks don't confirm an imminent announcement, they offer hope to those disappointed by the absence of a new 3D Mario title in the Nintendo Switch 2's launch lineup. Earlier this month, Nintendo unveiled its hybrid console sequel, showcasing titles like Donkey Kong Bananza and Mario Kart World, but a traditional 3D Mario platformer was notably missing.

It's been nearly eight years since the last flagship Mario game, Super Mario Odyssey, which launched in October 2017, shortly after the original Switch's debut. While games like Donkey Kong Bananza might tide fans over, it's not the Super Mario Odyssey 2 many were hoping for. Given Mario's pivotal role in Nintendo's vast catalog, it would be surprising if a new 3D Mario game didn't appear soon.

As we await further news on a new mainline Mario adventure, you can keep up with Nintendo's updated Switch 2 pre-order schedule here ahead of the console's launch on June 5, 2025. Additionally, dive into everything revealed during last week's Mario Kart World Direct and check out our hands-on thoughts on Donkey Kong Bananza.