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

Nintendo is dropping hints that a new 3D Mario game might be on the horizon, but we'll need to wait a bit longer to get a clear view. In a recent CNN interview, Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser addressed fans' longing for a new mainline Mario entry. While he didn't confirm a sequel to Super Mario Odyssey, Bowser suggested that fans won't have to wait too long to see what's next.

"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 comments don't confirm 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 sequel to the hybrid console earlier this month, it showcased exciting titles like Donkey Kong Bananza, Mario Kart World, and more. However, a traditional 3D Mario platformer was notably missing from the reveal.

The last major Mario game, released in October 2017, came just months after the original Switch launch. It's been nearly eight years since then, and while games like Donkey Kong Bananza might help bridge the gap, it's not the Super Mario Odyssey 2 that many fans were hoping for. Given Mario's pivotal role in Nintendo's extensive catalog, it would be surprising not to see a new 3D Mario game announced 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. In the meantime, dive into everything revealed during last week’s Mario Kart World Direct and check out our hands-on thoughts on Donkey Kong Bananza.