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

Nintendo is dropping hints that fans might not have to wait much longer for a new 3D Mario game. During a recent interview with CNN, Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser responded to the clamor for a new mainline Mario title. While he didn't confirm a direct sequel to Super Mario Odyssey, his comments suggest that fans won't be kept waiting indefinitely.

"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 fall short of a definitive announcement, they offer a glimmer of hope for those disappointed by the absence of a new 3D Mario game in the Nintendo Switch 2 launch lineup. When Nintendo unveiled its next-generation hybrid console earlier this month, it showcased impressive titles like Donkey Kong Bananza and Mario Kart World, but a traditional 3D Mario platformer was conspicuously missing.

The last major Mario game, Super Mario Odyssey, was released in October 2017, just months after the original Switch hit the market. That means it's been nearly eight years since the last big Mario adventure. While games like Donkey Kong Bananza might help bridge the gap, it's not the Super Mario Odyssey 2 many fans were hoping for. Given Mario's significance in Nintendo's extensive catalog, as mentioned by Bowser, it would be surprising if a new 3D Mario game didn't surface soon.

As of now, a new mainline Mario adventure remains under wraps. While 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. Dive into everything revealed during last week’s Mario Kart World Direct and read our hands-on thoughts on Donkey Kong Bananza to stay in the loop with Nintendo's latest offerings.