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

Nintendo is dropping tantalizing hints about a new 3D Mario game possibly being on the horizon, though we'll need to hold our horses a bit longer before we get a glimpse. In a recent chat with CNN, Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser responded to fans' clamor for a new mainline Mario game. While he didn't outright confirm a sequel to Super Mario Odyssey, his words suggest that we might not be waiting too long to see something new.

"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."

Bowser's comments, while not a definitive announcement, provide a glimmer of hope for those disappointed by the absence of a new 3D Mario entry in the Nintendo Switch 2's launch lineup. When Nintendo unveiled its latest hybrid console earlier this month, it showcased exciting titles like Donkey Kong Bananza, Mario Kart World, and more, but a traditional 3D Mario platformer was notably missing from the list.

The last major Mario game, Super Mario Odyssey, hit the shelves in October 2017, shortly after the original Switch's debut. That means it’s been nearly eight years since we last enjoyed a flagship Mario adventure. While games like Donkey Kong Bananza might help bridge the gap, they're no substitute for the Super Mario Odyssey 2 many fans are eagerly awaiting. Given Mario's iconic status in Nintendo's vast catalog, as mentioned by Bowser, it would indeed be surprising if a new 3D Mario game didn't appear soon.

For now, a new mainline Mario adventure remains under wraps. As we eagerly await further announcements, you can check out 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 read our hands-on thoughts on Donkey Kong Bananza.