Nintendo Switch 2 Launch Lineup – No New 3D Mario… Yet

29 April 2025
Nintendo Switch 2
6 min.
WhatsAppMessengerLinkedInRedditPinterestBufferSMS
Nintendo Switch 2 Launch Lineup – No New 3D Mario… Yet

Summary:

The launch of Nintendo Switch 2 has stirred the excitement of fans across the world, especially with heavy-hitters like Mario Kart, Donkey Kong, and the return of Kirby Air Ride in the spotlight. However, something — or rather, someone — is conspicuously absent: Mario in a brand-new 3D adventure. While fans hoped for a follow-up to Super Mario Odyssey, Nintendo had other plans for their launch event. When asked directly, Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser gave a brief yet telling response, encouraging fans to “stay tuned.” With this, speculation has only intensified. Nintendo’s rich vault of intellectual properties means surprises are always on the horizon. Although a mainline 3D Mario game isn’t part of the day-one lineup, its absence might be part of a much larger strategy. This look at the Switch 2’s current trajectory, game offerings, and hints about what’s next for Mario reveals a company keeping its cards close to its chest — but not for long.

The Switch 2 lineup – Is Mario even more coming?

With the anticipation for the Nintendo Switch 2 reaching fever pitch, the big reveal brought both excitement and questions. Nintendo rolled out a launch list that’s sure to please longtime fans, featuring iconic names like Mario Kart, Donkey Kong, and Kirby. But amid the applause, whispers quickly grew louder — where was Mario? Specifically, where was the next big 3D Mario adventure? While there’s plenty to celebrate, the absence of a flagship Mario title left a noticeable void that has the fanbase talking.

What’s in the launch lineup?

The Switch 2 is launching with some pretty powerful nostalgia and franchise firepower. A new Kirby Air Ride, a brand-new Donkey Kong game, and a fresh installment of Mario Kart are all confirmed. These titles aren’t just fillers — they’re polished, anticipated, and representative of Nintendo’s legacy of delivering unforgettable gameplay. Each one serves a purpose: to attract old fans, intrigue new ones, and showcase what the new console is capable of. Still, when the curtain lifted, many noticed a big piece missing from the puzzle.

Kirby Air Ride returns with new energy

Kirby Air Ride making a comeback is one of those announcements that hit fans right in the childhood. First released on the GameCube, the original was a cult classic. With its fast-paced gliding and accessible controls, it had something special. Now, with modern hardware behind it, Kirby’s new ride looks sleeker, faster, and more vibrant than ever. It’s not just a remake — it’s a reimagining, complete with new mechanics, stages, and potentially online multiplayer. The pink puffball is flying high again, and fans are here for it.

A brand-new Donkey Kong swings into action

Donkey Kong is no stranger to reinventing himself. Whether it’s in side-scrolling platformers or rhythm games with bongo drums, he’s a staple. This new Donkey Kong offering leans heavily into lush environments, co-op mechanics, and challenging level design. From early glimpses, it’s clear this isn’t just a visual upgrade — it’s a full-fledged adventure. Jungle hijinks are back in style, and the visuals alone make a strong case for what Switch 2 can do.

Mario Kart powers up for the next generation

No Nintendo console launch would be complete without some karting chaos. Mario Kart returns, likely pushing the envelope even further with enhanced graphics, new track mechanics, and deeper online functionality. While not much is known about the exact features, one thing is certain: Nintendo wouldn’t bring out Mario Kart unless they had new tricks up their sleeves. This game will likely be the social magnet for the Switch 2, keeping friends and rivals glued to their screens for hours.

But where’s Mario? The missing 3D icon

With so many high-profile names making an appearance, Mario’s absence in a 3D title feels strange. Super Mario Odyssey, released in 2017, was a defining title for the original Switch. It set a new standard for 3D platformers. Naturally, fans expected a sequel or spiritual successor to be part of the Switch 2’s early offerings. Yet, here we are — no plumber, no princess, no Bowser kidnappings. Just the silence of unfulfilled expectations… at least for now.

Doug Bowser’s statement and what it implies

When CNN asked Doug Bowser why a mainline Mario title wasn’t part of the lineup, his answer was short and sweet: “Stay tuned.” He emphasized that Nintendo has a deep library of intellectual property ready to roll out on the platform. That might seem like a non-answer, but coming from a company known for tight-lipped strategies, it’s enough to get the rumor mill spinning. Bowser’s hint doesn’t confirm a new Mario — but it doesn’t deny one either. And in Nintendo-speak, that usually means something’s brewing behind the scenes.

Nintendo’s strategy with legacy IPs

Nintendo has always been calculated in how and when it unveils its IPs. They’ve got decades worth of beloved characters and franchises to play with, and spacing them out ensures prolonged hype and consistent sales. Launching with familiar but slightly less expected faces like Kirby and Donkey Kong gives the Switch 2 breathing room. It also creates an opportunity to deliver a massive reveal later, one that could break the internet — like a new Super Mario Odyssey sequel. Holding back Mario might just be a tactical move in a much bigger play.

The slow burn method: Why it works

Releasing everything at once is like lighting every firework at the same time — spectacular, but short-lived. Nintendo’s approach has always favored the long game. By keeping Mario under wraps for now, they allow the other titles to shine while giving themselves a major marketing card to play later. It’s about timing, not absence. If anything, it’s a strategy that builds anticipation and guarantees the spotlight when Mario finally does make his return.

The future of Super Mario on Switch 2

Whether it’s a direct sequel to Odyssey or a brand-new adventure, it’s almost certain that a 3D Mario is on the way. Nintendo has never launched a console generation without a marquee Mario game within its lifecycle. The question isn’t if, but when. Fans can expect announcements at upcoming Directs, possibly tied to the holiday season or major gaming expos. Until then, we’re left reading between the lines — and all signs point to Mario gearing up for his next big leap.

Why this launch lineup still matters

Even without a 3D Mario title, the Switch 2’s debut isn’t lacking firepower. Kirby, Donkey Kong, and Mario Kart each carry significant weight in the Nintendo universe. They represent not just nostalgia, but also innovation, and signal the direction Nintendo wants to go. The absence of one title doesn’t take away from the strength of what’s here. This lineup is a reminder that Nintendo doesn’t need to rely on just one mascot to make waves. They’ve built a universe — and they’re only just beginning to unleash it.

Conclusion

The Nintendo Switch 2 is stepping into the spotlight with a strong set of titles that balance legacy and freshness. While the lack of a new 3D Mario is hard to ignore, it doesn’t overshadow the excitement that Kirby, Donkey Kong, and Mario Kart bring to the table. Doug Bowser’s subtle hint gives fans hope and a reason to keep their eyes peeled for what’s next. It’s clear Nintendo is playing the long game, and Mario will eventually take center stage. For now, the Switch 2 offers more than enough reasons to get excited — and stay tuned.

FAQs
  • Is a new 3D Mario game confirmed for Switch 2?
    • Not officially, but hints from Doug Bowser suggest it’s likely in development.
  • What games are confirmed for the Switch 2 launch?
    • A new Kirby Air Ride, Donkey Kong game, and Mario Kart are part of the initial lineup.
  • Why didn’t Nintendo include Mario in the launch?
    • Nintendo likely has strategic reasons, saving Mario for a major announcement later.
  • Is Kirby Air Ride a remake or a new game?
    • It’s a reimagined version with updated graphics and new features, not a simple remake.
  • When can we expect a new Mario announcement?
    • Possibly during a future Nintendo Direct or a major event like E3.
Sources
WhatsAppMessengerLinkedInRedditPinterestBufferSMS