Summary
The time may be right forMarioto embark on his next 3D adventure, and there’s plenty of reason to expect one soon enough. After all, with Mario being Nintendo’s mascot and most famous figure, the possibility of him having another game in the pipeline can never truly be discounted. TheSuper Marioseries is a reliable source for some of Nintendo’s most polished titles, both in 2D and 3D. While Mario’s last 3D adventure had an impressive scope, the series can still go further, especially if the next game embraces the full potential of the franchise.
After releasing one of thebest Switch games of 2023withSuper Mario Bros. Wonder, it’s clear that Nintendo’s favorite plumber still has plenty of life in him. This step back to the genre of 2D platforming where the series got its start mixed wonderfully with the array of new features and gimmicks introduced in the game. Platforming isn’t the only area where Mario has had a high profile recently. The Booster Course pass forMario Kart 8 Deluxefinally reached its conclusion recently, and the remake ofSuper Mario RPGalso received a warm reception. Overall, 2023 was a fantastic year for Mario and friends.
Another 3D Mario Platformer Has Plenty of Potential For Nintendo
It’s Been Years Since Mario’s Last 3D Adventure
It has been six years since theplatforming masterpieceSuper Mario Odysseywas released, and Mario hasn’t had another 3D adventure since unless once countsSuper Mario 3D World, Bowser’s Fury.Super Mario Odysseypushed to a new height, with several large, interesting worlds to explore, as well as a unique gimmick in the form of Cappy’s possession ability. It also gave players a level of customization not seen before, with many outfits and hats that Mario could wear. However, even withSuper Mario Odysseybeing as good as it is, it can’t support the series forever, and enough time has passed for a new entry.
Mario Has More Abilities That Haven’t Seen a 3D Game Yet
Even if Nintendo doesn’t decide to include theWonder Flower in Mario’s next 3D adventure, there are a lot of new abilities that Mario now has at his disposal that haven’t been used in 3D yet, including:
The Bubble Flower may be the best example, both defeating enemies and creating single-use bubbles for Mario to bounce off of. That power-up alone can play a role in many puzzles and platforming challenges if adapted to a 3D environment.Super Mario Bros. Wonder’s new abilities could play a big role in improving Mario’s next 3D adventure.
A New Mario Game Could Introduce Another Innovative Gimmick
Another 3D Mario game could also play the important role of forging unexplored territory.Super Mario Bros. Wonderhad a fantastic gimmickwith the Wonder Flower, furthering the series' tradition of introducing something new and unique in most of its mainline adventures. The next game would almost certainly have something new to add to the formula. FromSuper Mario Sunshine’s F.L.U.D.D. toSuper Paper Mario’s dimension-flipping, few other franchises have managed to work in as many gimmicks as theMarioseries while maintaining their overall quality. Another 3DSuper Marioplatformer would have a good chance to expand the series' legacy in that regard.
There are still plenty of opportunities for a new 3DSuper Mariogame to thrive. Nintendo can easilykeep theMarioseries relevant in the future, with new releases being an important part of such a plan. It has already been over half a decade since players got the chance to go on a 3D adventure with Mario, leaving players waiting for Mario’s return to the realm. The time for another 3DSuper Marioplatformer could be fast approaching, especially if Nintendo intends to keep up its flagship character’s momentum.
