Nintendo is dropping hints that a new 3D Mario game might be on the horizon, but fans will need to stay patient for an official reveal. In a recent interview with CNN, Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser addressed the clamor for a new mainline Mario game. 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 are not a definitive announcement, they offer hope to those disappointed by the absence of a new 3D Mario title in the Nintendo Switch 2 launch lineup. When Nintendo unveiled its next-generation 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 of now, a new mainline Mario adventure remains unannounced. While we await further updates, you can explore Nintendo's updated Switch 2 pre-order schedule here ahead of the console's launch on June 5, 2025. Additionally, you can catch up on everything revealed during last week's Mario Kart World Direct and read our hands-on thoughts on Donkey Kong Bananza.
