Nintendo Hints at New 3D Mario for Switch 2: 'Stay Tuned'

Nintendo has sparked excitement among fans with hints that a new 3D Mario game might be on the horizon. In a recent interview with CNN, Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser addressed the community's longing for a new mainline Mario entry. Although he didn't confirm a sequel to Super Mario Odyssey, his comments suggest that fans won't have to wait much longer for an announcement.

"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."

While Bowser's remarks fall short of a definitive confirmation, 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 titles like Donkey Kong Bananza and Mario Kart World, but a traditional 3D Mario platformer was noticeably missing.

The last major Mario title, Super Mario Odyssey, was released in October 2017, shortly after the original Switch's launch. With nearly eight years since the last flagship Mario game, fans are eager for a follow-up. Although games like Donkey Kong Bananza may temporarily fill the gap, they aren't the Super Mario Odyssey 2 many were hoping for. Given Mario's significant role in Nintendo's vast catalog, as Bowser mentioned, it would be surprising if a new 3D Mario game didn't appear soon.

For now, a new mainline Mario adventure remains unannounced. As we await further updates, you can check out Nintendo’s updated Switch 2 pre-order schedule here ahead of the console’s launch on June 5, 2025. You can also dive into everything revealed during last week’s Mario Kart World Direct and read our hands-on thoughts on Donkey Kong Bananza.