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

Nintendo is stirring excitement with hints that a new 3D Mario game might be just around the corner, though we'll need to wait a bit longer for a full reveal. During a recent interview with CNN, Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser responded to fans' longing for a new mainline Mario title. While he didn't confirm a direct sequel to Super Mario Odyssey, his words suggest that fans won't have to wait much longer for news.

"Stay tuned," Bowser encouraged. "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 aren't a definitive announcement, they offer hope to those who were surprised not to see a new Mario game in the Nintendo Switch 2's launch lineup. When Nintendo unveiled its sequel to the hybrid console earlier this month, it showcased impressive titles like Donkey Kong Bananza and Mario Kart World, but a traditional 3D Mario platformer was noticeably absent.

The last major Mario release was Super Mario Odyssey in October 2017, shortly after the original Switch launched. With nearly eight years having passed, games like Donkey Kong Bananza might temporarily fill the gap, but many fans are still eager for a Super Mario Odyssey 2 announcement. Given Mario's iconic status within Nintendo's extensive catalog, as Bowser mentioned, it would indeed be surprising if a new 3D Mario game didn't surface soon.

As we await further news on a new mainline Mario adventure, you can keep up with developments by checking Nintendo's updated Switch 2 pre-order schedule here ahead of the console's launch on June 5, 2025. In the meantime, delve into everything revealed during last week's Mario Kart World Direct and read our hands-on thoughts on Donkey Kong Bananza.