Nintendo has confirmed that Donkey Kong Bananza is in development, a new title that will be exclusive to the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 console. This game is being developed by EDP Tokyo, the same studio responsible for Super Mario Odyssey, a title that has sold over 29 million copies and has redefined the platforming genre since its release in 2017.
Donkey Kong is great, but where is Mario?
The news has sparked a debate among fans. While Donkey Kong Bananza promises to be a unique experience, many followers of the Super Mario saga feel anxious about the lack of information regarding a new 3D game featuring the iconic plumber. Former marketing directors of Nintendo, such as Kit Ellis and Krista Yang, have speculated that, given EDP Tokyo’s commitment to Bananza, fans may have to wait several years to see a new Mario title. According to Yang, the development process of this team is not quick, suggesting that a new 3D Mario game may not arrive until the middle or even the end of the next generation of consoles.
Despite these concerns, the community also speculates that the nearly eight years since the release of Odyssey may have allowed EDP Tokyo to work on several projects in parallel. In fact, it is rumored that Nintendo might release a package that includes a new Super Mario 3D game, along with the Switch 2, to coincide with the premiere of the second Super Mario Bros. movie in April 2026.
Meanwhile, fans will be able to enjoy Donkey Kong Bananza, which will be released on July 17. This announcement has generated excitement among the series’ followers, who not only expect a great video game but also wonder when Mario will return in his own 3D adventure.
