Why the Nintendo Switch 2 Launch Lacks Impact Without a New 3D Mario Game

Mario has remained Nintendo’s enduring mascot for many years, featuring prominently in countless beloved games. Titles from the Mario franchise, including traditional 2D platformers and expansive 3D adventures, have historically driven console sales and contributed significantly to Nintendo’s overall success. Spin-offs such as Mario Kart have further cemented Mario’s status in the gaming world. Although new consoles may not always launch with a Mario platformer, announcements of future releases generally accompany the excitement surrounding fresh hardware.

With the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 Direct presentation, many fans eagerly anticipated the announcement of a new 3D Mario game. Just as Super Mario Odyssey was teased during the 2017 event for the original Switch, a new 3D iteration could have served as a crowning feature for the Switch 2. However, the initial launch lineup appears predominantly focused on enhanced versions of older titles.

No New 3D Super Mario Launching Alongside the Switch 2

Disappointment Without a New Super Mario Game

Mario running in Super Mario Odyssey
Mario and Cappy in Super Mario Odyssey
Mario chasing his hat in Super Mario Odyssey
Mario facing Bowser in Super Mario Odyssey

Although several intriguing titles have been revealed for the Switch 2, the absence of a 3D Super Mario game was a major letdown for fans, including myself. Given that Nintendo’s identity is intertwined with Mario, launching a new console without a new 3D platformer feels like an oversight.

The original Switch, while lacking a 3D Mario title at launch, showcased The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild as a flagship exclusive, tantalizing players with brief glimpses of Super Mario Odyssey shortly thereafter. A similar launch strategy could have elevated the anticipation for the Switch 2, offering players the promise of a grand single-player adventure. Instead, the current launch lineup, dominated by ports and remasters, leaves much to be desired and casts doubt on the value of the upgraded hardware.

As of December 31, 2024, Super Mario Odyssey has achieved outstanding sales figures, with 29.04 million copies sold, positioning it amongst the most successful titles on the Switch.

Although Nintendo may still be developing something special behind the scenes, the release of the Switch 2 without a flagship 3D Mario game renders its launch somewhat lacking. This isn’t the first time Nintendo has debuted a console devoid of a direct Mario platformer, but the overwhelming success of Super Mario Odyssey raises questions about the absence of a sequel ready for release.

Super Mario Odyssey Released 8 Years Ago

Long Wait for a Mainline Mario Game

Mario and Cappy in Super Mario Odyssey

Super Mario Odyssey emerged as a tremendous success for the Nintendo Switch, despite not being available at the console’s launch. While the Switch debuted in March 2017, Odyssey followed in October. Fortunately, players had the critically acclaimed The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild to explore during the wait.

Even though Mario’s entry was delayed, Odyssey proved to be worth it. The game introduced innovative mechanics, such as Cappy, and boasted expansive open worlds, providing a rejuvenating experience for the 3D Mario franchise. It quickly gained popularity, demonstrating that Nintendo could still innovate with its most iconic character.

Super Mario Odyssey was enhanced with a multiplayer option and even adapted for virtual reality using the Nintendo Labo kit.

Now, eight years later, fans are still eagerly awaiting a new 3D Mario game. Nintendo has launched various remasters and spin-off titles, but no legitimate sequel to Odyssey has emerged. The extended absence of a new Mario platformer significantly highlights the current lack of one at the Switch 2 launch. While many fans hoped for a sequel to Odyssey, others simply desired fresh content; instead, they are left wanting for now.

Nintendo’s decision to prioritize other titles at launch over a new Mario offering could prove risky. While Mario Kart World is likely to be a strong seller, it cannot replicate the excitement of a complete 3D platforming journey. With the official unveiling of the Switch 2, fans face an even longer wait for a new Mario adventure, and that duration is already wearing thin.

Without the charm of a 3D Mario game, the launch of the Switch 2 feels somewhat anticlimactic. The original Switch benefited from the momentum of Breath of the Wild, and Odyssey soon followed to keep interest high. In contrast, the Switch 2’s debut lacks a standout title to ignite similar enthusiasm.

The Switch 2 Launch Lineup is Disappointing

Few New Games at Launch

Mario Kart World on Nintendo Switch 2
Custom Image by Bruno Yonezawa

Upon launch, the Nintendo Switch 2 will feature only one significant first-party game: Mario Kart World. While the return of a new Mario Kart installment is exciting and helps maintain the franchise’s visibility in the absence of a 3D platformer, it is disappointing that the lineup lacks additional noteworthy titles. Most other offerings consist of upgraded editions of pre-existing games, such as enhanced versions of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom.

The contrast with the original Switch launch is stark. The 2017 reveal showcased not only inconsistent titles like 1-2-Switch but also a diverse array of anticipated games such as ARMS, Xenoblade Chronicles 2, and Shin Megami Tensei V, which teased an appealing future for the console. Although not everything was slated for day-one release, the promise of a thrilling year ahead raised expectations.

However, the Switch 2 seems overly reliant on upgrades and remakes. Although Mario Kart World can serve as a highlight, it fails to compensate for the lack of a new 3D Mario or another prominent first-party title, akin to Zelda or Animal Crossing. Nintendo had a unique opportunity to enhance the Switch 2’s launch with additional compelling titles, yet the overall impression remains muted.

Though further games will be added later, such as Donkey Kong Bananza, and the Switch 2 may eventually host a plethora of exciting titles, the current launch lineup feels incomplete without a new Mario platformer. Given Nintendo’s history of strong console introductions, the Switch 2’s initial offerings and the announced games for the upcoming year leave much to be desired.

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