Nintendo is stirring excitement among fans with hints that a new 3D Mario game might be on the horizon, though we'll need to wait a bit longer to see it in action. During a recent interview with CNN, Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser addressed the community's longing for another mainline Mario entry. While he didn't confirm a sequel to Super Mario Odyssey, his words suggest that fans might not have to wait too long for more Mario magic.

"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 these comments don't confirm an imminent announcement, they offer hope to those who were 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 exciting titles like Donkey Kong Bananza, Mario Kart World, and others—but fans were left wanting for a traditional 3D Mario platformer.

It's been nearly eight years since the last major Mario release, Super Mario Odyssey, which launched in October 2017, shortly after the original Switch. Although games like Donkey Kong Bananza may temporarily fill the Mario-sized gap, it's not the Super Mario Odyssey 2 many were hoping for. Given Mario's significant role in Nintendo's vast catalog, it would be surprising if a new 3D Mario game didn't appear sooner rather than later.

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