Nintendo Direct September 2026 unveils Switch 2 titles but skips Mario flagship
New Metroid and Kirby projects were revealed, but the absence of a 3D Mario title leaves fans disappointed during the character's 40th anniversary.
Nintendo's September 2026 Direct provided a first look at the software pipeline for the Switch 2, yet left a glaring hole where a flagship Mario title was expected. The presentation focused on upcoming releases, but the absence of a new 3D Mario adventure has sparked significant discussion among the gaming community.
During the broadcast, Nintendo officially announced 'Metroid Ravenous,' a 2D adventure slated for a January 2027 release on the Switch 2. The company also revealed 'Kirby and the World Beyond,' an open-world 3D title scheduled to launch in Spring 2027. These announcements followed a separate Legend of Zelda 40th anniversary showcase held on September 8, 2026, which confirmed that the Ocarina of Time remake will launch on November 5, 2026.
The Mario Gap
The lack of a new 3D Mario game is particularly striking given that 2026 marks the 40th anniversary of the iconic character. For many Switch 2 owners, a new 3D platformer was expected to serve as the primary anchor for the new hardware's library. This omission was compounded by the absence of 'The Duskbloods,' a rumored multiplayer title from FromSoftware that had been heavily speculated as a Switch 2 exclusive.
Industry Implications
The absence of a flagship 3D Mario title is seen as a missed opportunity to build immediate momentum for the Switch 2. Historically, Nintendo has typically released a major 3D Mario experience early in a console's lifecycle to drive hardware adoption and establish the platform's capabilities. By failing to deliver a centerpiece title during a milestone anniversary, Nintendo risks a slower start for its new ecosystem compared to previous generational shifts.
Furthermore, the 'no-show' of 'The Duskbloods' suggests that high-profile third-party exclusives may not be arriving as quickly as enthusiasts had hoped. While the Metroid and Kirby announcements demonstrate a commitment to first-party variety, they do not carry the same systemic weight as a new Mario flagship or a prestige third-party partnership.
Looking Ahead
Attention now turns to whether Nintendo is saving a major Mario reveal for a later window or if the development cycle for the next 3D entry has shifted. While 'Metroid Ravenous' and 'Kirby and the World Beyond' provide a foundation for 2027, the industry remains watchful for any sign of the missing 3D Mario project. It remains unconfirmed if 'The Duskbloods' is still in development for the platform or if the rumors were unfounded.