Nintendo is dropping hints that a new 3D Mario game might be on the horizon, but we'll need to wait a bit longer for the full reveal. In a recent interview with CNN, Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser responded to fans' longing for another mainline Mario entry. While he didn't confirm a direct sequel to Super Mario Odyssey, his comments suggest that fans won't have to wait too long for more news.
"Stay tuned," Bowser teased. "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."
Although Bowser's words don't guarantee an imminent announcement, they offer hope to those disappointed by the absence of a new 3D Mario game in the Nintendo Switch 2 launch lineup. When Nintendo unveiled its new hybrid console earlier this month, it showcased exciting titles like Donkey Kong Bananza and Mario Kart World, but a traditional 3D Mario platformer was notably missing.
The last major Mario game, Super Mario Odyssey, was released in October 2017, shortly after the original Switch's launch. It's been nearly eight years since then, and while games like Donkey Kong Bananza might temporarily fill the gap, it's not the Super Mario Odyssey 2 that many fans were hoping for. Given Mario's significant role in Nintendo's extensive catalog, it would be surprising if a new 3D Mario game didn't appear soon.
As we await further updates on a new mainline Mario adventure, you can check out Nintendo’s updated 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.
