Nintendo fans may need to exercise patience for the next 3D Mario game, as a new rumor linked to the Nintendo Switch 2 hints at a release timeline. The last major 3D Mario title, Super Mario Odyssey, launched in 2017, marking an eight-year gap that is unusually long for the franchise. Comparatively, prior gaps between 3D Mario games have ranged from two to six years.

What the Rumor Suggests

According to the rumor, the new 3D Mario game won’t debut alongside the Nintendo Switch 2, expected to launch on March 3, 2025. Instead, the game may release later in the year. Historically, Nintendo has reserved high-profile Mario releases for key points in a console’s lifecycle, such as the holiday season or as follow-ups to major launch titles.

For example:

• In 2017, Super Mario Odyssey arrived in October, eight months after the Switch’s launch.

• The Wii U’s Super Mario 3D World (2013) and the 3DS’s Super Mario 3D Land (2011) also followed strategic timing to maximize momentum.

Possible Release Windows

If the new 3D Mario game skips the Switch 2’s launch, there are two logical windows for its release:

• Holiday 2025: Nintendo could replicate the success of Super Mario Odyssey by making the game its flagship holiday title. This approach ensures a major boost in sales during the competitive end-of-year shopping season.

• Spring 2025: The game could serve as a follow-up to Mario Kart 9, which is rumored to be the Switch 2’s launch game. A spring release would allow Nintendo to sustain interest in the new console through a steady cadence of blockbuster titles.

Why the Wait?

The extended development period for the next 3D Mario game could reflect Nintendo’s ambition to push boundaries in gameplay and design. Given the franchise’s legacy and the success of Super Mario Odyssey, fans can likely expect an innovative experience tailored to showcase the capabilities of the Switch 2.

Final Thoughts

While rumors and speculation dominate the conversation, one thing is clear: the wait for the next 3D Mario game is almost over. Whether it lands in spring or the holiday season of 2025, fans can expect a major release that lives up to the series’ storied reputation. Until then, keep an eye out for official announcements from Nintendo, and take these rumors with a grain of salt.

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