New Mario 3D on the way? Clues that fans are excited about

The recent release of Donkey Kong Bananza has taken Nintendo fans by surprise. Not only does it mark the return of the iconic character to a three-dimensional environment , but its development has generated even more anticipation as it is being spearheaded by the team behind Super Mario Odyssey , one of the most acclaimed titles on the Switch console.

This unexpected twist has sparked a wave of speculation. Why is the team behind Mario's latest smash hit now behind the new Donkey Kong game? What does this mean for the future of the most famous plumber in video games? For many, the answer is clear: a new 3D Mario game could be on the way .

Another factor fueling the rumors is Mario's absence from the official announcement of the long-awaited Switch 2 , Nintendo's next-generation console. Historically, the company has accompanied each major release with a plumber title, whether in 2D or 3D. From Super Mario 64 to Odyssey , Mario's presence has been synonymous with technological revolution and innovative gameplay.

This time, however, Nintendo has opted not to release any mainline Mario titles alongside the console. Instead, it has opted for Donkey Kong Bananza, which has raised even more suspicions among fans. For many, this can only mean one thing: Nintendo is holding back a surprise .

Another key fact that has raised alarm bells among fans is the absence of Yoshiaki Koizumi from the production of Bananza. Koizumi has been an essential figure in the history of 3D Mario. His signature appears on classics like Super Mario Galaxy , 3D Land , 3D World , and, of course, Odyssey . His experience and creative vision have been instrumental in turning each game into a memorable experience.

The fact that he's not involved in Bananza has been interpreted by many as a sign that he's working on another project , possibly a new mainline Super Mario title. His lack of presence in promotional materials for the Switch 2 also reinforces this hypothesis.

Donkey Kong Bananza is being produced by Kenta Motokura , who was also responsible for Super Mario 3D World and Odyssey . It is being directed by Kazuya Takahashi , a recent talent with involvement in franchises such as Sonic and Final Fantasy . Their combined experience has generated excitement, but it has also raised the inevitable question: if Motokura and company are busy with Donkey Kong , who is preparing the next Mario 3D ?

The most attentive fans point out that Motokura had already expressed his desire to innovate in the design of open worlds after Odyssey, which could indicate that Nintendo is developing two parallel projects : one with Donkey Kong and another, not yet announced, with Mario as the protagonist.

Since the release of Super Mario Odyssey in 2017 , fans have been patiently waiting for the announcement of a new 3D plumber's installment. While games like Bowser's Fury and re-releases like Super Mario 3D All-Stars have also arrived, the community is still eager for a completely new adventure .

The timing seems right. The Switch 2 represents a new generation of power and possibilities, and Mario has traditionally been the face of these technological leaps. Anticipation is growing and rumors are multiplying. Although Nintendo hasn't officially confirmed anything, everything seems to indicate that the announcement could be closer than we think.

While these are just hints and speculation for now, the context is clear: Nintendo could be preparing a new Super Mario 3D . Koizumi's absence, the return of the Odyssey team with Donkey Kong, and the lack of a Mario title at the launch of the Switch 2 are signs that fans haven't missed.

Meanwhile, Donkey Kong Bananza promises to be a milestone in 3D platforming, and also a hint of what might be to come. The big question is when Mario will return to the scene. And if the signs are right, that moment could be closer than we think .