Nintendo’s 2025 lineup is shifting into high gear—and Mario Kart World is leading the charge. Launching alongside the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5, 2025, this brand-new installment in the iconic racing series is not just another lap around the track. It’s a complete overhaul of the Mario Kart formula, merging open-world exploration with competitive racing in a way that could redefine the genre. And that’s just the beginning—2025 is shaping up to be a landmark year for Mario fans across the board.
Here’s a detailed look at what’s coming, what’s rumored, and why this is one of the biggest years ever for the Super Mario franchise.
🏁 Mario Kart World – An Open-World Revolution for the Series
For the first time in franchise history, Mario Kart World introduces an open-world structure to the classic kart-racing formula. Instead of selecting tracks from a menu, players now drive through interconnected regions to reach races, time trials, and special events. Each biome—from the Mushroom Jungle to Bowser’s Volcanic Fortress—offers its own hazards, shortcuts, and secrets to uncover.
Key Features:
- Over 40 Playable Characters, including returning racers and newcomers like Pauline, Kamek, and even Cappy.
- 24-Player Online Races with cross-region lobbies and dynamic matchmaking.
- Rail Grinding, Wall Jumps, and Off-Road Terrain mechanics bring more verticality and exploration than ever before.
- Dynamic Weather and Day/Night Cycles, affecting visibility, grip, and track hazards in real-time.
- Grand Prix Mode Overhauled: Players must physically drive between cups and events, making the game world feel alive and cohesive.
The game is priced at $79.99, signaling a premium experience meant to showcase the power of the Switch 2’s upgraded hardware and its AI-assisted environmental rendering.
🎉 Super Mario Party Jamboree – Switch 2 Enhanced Edition
After launching in late 2024, Super Mario Party Jamboree returns this summer with a Switch 2-specific port, arriving on July 24, 2025. More than just a re-release, this version leverages the console’s new motion sensors, camera capabilities, and upgraded Joy-Con haptics to enhance minigames and social gameplay.
What’s New in the Enhanced Edition:
- Higher Resolution Visuals and Faster Load Times
- New Microphone and Camera-Based Minigames
- 20-Player Koopathlon Online Mode, an evolution of last year’s chaotic competition feature
- Augmented Reality Integration, placing Mario-themed objects into your real-world environment during select party modes
Nintendo is positioning this game as the go-to family and party title of the summer.
🆕 Upcoming Titles and Rumored Releases
A New 3D Mario Game on the Horizon?
One of the most anticipated pieces of the Switch 2 puzzle is the return of a mainline 3D Mario adventure. While unannounced as of mid-2025, multiple insiders and data miners point to a project internally referred to as “Project Starburst,” believed to be the spiritual successor to Super Mario Odyssey.
Theories range from Odyssey 2 to a brand-new galaxy-hopping concept that uses the Switch 2’s advanced graphics capabilities and rumored ray tracing support. If confirmed, this would be the first new 3D Mario platformer since Bowser’s Fury in 2021.
Fan Buzz: New Super Mario Bros. Extreme (Unofficial)
One concept that’s caught fire online—but remains unofficial—is New Super Mario Bros. Extreme. While purely fan-made and hosted on platforms like Fantendo, it imagines a six-player side-scrolling experience with rotating daily challenges and rogue-like mechanics. It’s not in development at Nintendo, but it showcases how hungry the fanbase is for new 2D Mario innovations.
🎬 The Super Mario Bros. Movie Sequel is Officially on the Way
The wildly successful Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023) has its sequel in active production. At a recent NBCUniversal upfront event, the sequel’s official title was reportedly announced behind closed doors, with a wide reveal expected later in the summer.
Returning voice actors include Chris Pratt, Anya Taylor-Joy, and Jack Black, with the sequel said to explore deeper corners of the Mushroom Kingdom—and possibly bring in Super Mario Galaxy characters like Rosalina, fueling speculation among fans.
📅 Important Dates to Mark
- June 5, 2025 – Mario Kart World launches with the Nintendo Switch 2.
- July 24, 2025 – Super Mario Party Jamboree – Switch 2 Edition hits shelves.
- Late 2025 (TBA) – Expected reveal of the new 3D Mario project.
- Holiday 2026 (rumored) – Release window for the Super Mario Bros. Movie sequel.
Nintendo is clearly pulling out all the stops to make the most of its next-gen console’s debut. With Mario Kart World poised to shake up racing games and Super Mario Party Jamboree delivering massive multiplayer fun, all eyes are now on what surprises the next 3D Mario adventure may hold. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the Mushroom Kingdom, 2025 is the year Mario goes full throttle.
A Look Back At The Super Mario RPG Remake
The Super Mario RPG Remake for Nintendo Switch has been a remarkable success since its release, capturing both newcomers and long-time fans of the original 1996 classic. The remake has already outsold the original SNES version in just over six weeks on sale, demonstrating the enduring appeal of this beloved RPG. Nintendo has shown ongoing commitment to improving the game experience, with their latest update (Ver. 1.0.1) released on December 12, 2023, addressing various bugs and game progression issues.
While many players have praised the remake for its updated visuals, UI improvements, and new content, there has been growing discussion in the community about the game’s difficulty level. Some fans are calling for Nintendo to add a hard mode in future updates to increase the challenge for experienced players. The remake stays true to the spirit of the original while enhancing the experience with modern features that make it more accessible to today’s gaming audience.
Key Takeaways
- The Super Mario RPG Remake has outsold the original game in just six weeks, proving its commercial success on the Nintendo Switch.
- Nintendo continues to support the game with updates that fix bugs and address progression issues.
- Fans are requesting additional difficulty options while appreciating the visual enhancements and quality-of-life improvements.
Historical Context
Super Mario RPG has a rich history dating back to the 1990s. This beloved game represents a significant collaboration between two gaming giants and laid groundwork for future Mario RPG titles.
Legacy of the Original SNES Classic
The original Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars launched in 1996 as the SNES era was winding down. As mentioned in the search results, the game released just as the Nintendo 64’s launch was approaching.
This timing proved significant, as the game became one of the final major releases for Nintendo’s 16-bit console. The original title introduced RPG elements to the Mario universe, blending turn-based combat with timing-based action commands.
These innovative mechanics set it apart from traditional RPGs of the era. The game’s isometric view and unique art style also distinguished it from other Mario titles.
Partnership Between Square Enix and Nintendo
Super Mario RPG represented a groundbreaking collaboration between Nintendo and Square (now Square Enix). This partnership brought together Nintendo’s beloved characters with Square’s RPG expertise.
Square had established itself as an RPG powerhouse with the Final Fantasy series. As noted in the search results, Super Mario RPG featured “Final Fantasy-style combat” enhanced with innovative timing mechanics.
This collaboration wasn’t without complications. Following the original game, Square developed Final Fantasy titles for Sony’s PlayStation, creating a temporary rift with Nintendo.
The remake signals a renewed partnership, though search results indicate Nintendo has been “weird about who developed Super Mario RPG Remake.”
Gameplay Evolution
The Super Mario RPG remake maintains the charm of the original while introducing significant gameplay improvements. These enhancements balance nostalgia with modern gaming expectations across several key areas.
Enhanced Role-Playing Mechanics
The remake stays largely faithful to the SNES original’s core RPG elements while streamlining some of the more archaic features. Character progression remains familiar but with added depth. Players can still level up characters through turn-based battles, but the remake offers more meaningful skill trees and equipment options.
The inventory system has been redesigned for better usability without sacrificing the original’s charm. Item management is more intuitive, making the adventure flow more smoothly for both veterans and newcomers.
Party member interactions have been expanded, providing richer storytelling moments throughout the journey. These enhancements respect the original formula while making the role-playing experience more engaging for modern players.
Innovations in Turn-Based Battles
The battle system has received significant attention in the remake with several noteworthy improvements. Action Commands, the timed button presses that increase attack effectiveness, have been refined and expanded to feel more responsive and rewarding.
One of the most exciting additions is the new Triple Move system. This powerful combat option allows players to combine the abilities of three party members for devastating special attacks. These combinations add strategic depth to battle planning.
Visual feedback during combat has been enhanced with clearer indicators for successful timing windows and damage potential. Enemy encounters remain turn-based but feature smoother transitions and more dynamic camera angles during special moves.
Status effects and battle items also play more meaningful roles in combat strategy than in the original game.
Integration of Platforming Elements
True to its Mario roots, the remake expertly blends RPG mechanics with platforming elements. The overworld exploration incorporates more interactive jumping puzzles and hidden areas that reward skilled platforming.
Movement feels more fluid and responsive, making navigation through the colorful environments more enjoyable. Secret areas are more abundant and contain worthwhile treasures that encourage thorough exploration of each zone.
The developers have added platforming challenges that utilize each character’s unique abilities, creating varied gameplay moments between the turn-based battles. These segments provide a welcome pace change and highlight the hybrid nature of the game.
Mini-games throughout the adventure also incorporate platforming skills, creating a seamless blend between Super Mario’s platforming heritage and its RPG elements.
Visual and Technical Enhancements
The Super Mario RPG remake for Nintendo Switch showcases significant visual improvements while maintaining the charm of the original game. Technical analysis reveals impressive performance optimizations that enhance the overall gaming experience.
Upgraded Graphics and Animations
The remake features completely overhauled graphics that modernize the classic isometric perspective of the original Super Mario RPG. Character models have been redesigned with more detail while preserving their iconic appearances.
Animations are now smoother and more expressive, giving familiar characters like Mario and Bowser new life. The updated visual style uses vibrant colors and enhanced lighting effects that make the world feel more dynamic.
Background environments have received special attention, with added details that weren’t possible on the Super Nintendo hardware. Water effects, particle systems, and environmental animations bring the world to life.
Digital Foundry particularly praised the video cutscenes in the remake, which feature cinematic quality that far exceeds the original game’s capabilities.
Optimization for Nintendo Switch
The Super Mario RPG remake has been carefully optimized for the Nintendo Switch hardware. According to technical analysis by Digital Foundry, the game targets and maintains 60 frames per second almost consistently throughout gameplay.
This smooth frame rate ensures that combat sequences and platforming elements feel responsive and fluid. Load times have been minimized compared to other Switch titles, allowing players to jump into the action quickly.
The game takes advantage of the Switch’s capabilities while ensuring strong performance in both docked and handheld modes. Visual quality remains consistent across both play styles, with minimal compromises for portable play.
Sound design has also been enhanced while preserving many of the original sound effects that fans remember, creating a nostalgic yet modernized audio experience.
Narrative and World Building
Super Mario RPG’s remake maintains the beloved storyline while enhancing the narrative elements through improved visuals and character interactions. The world feels more vibrant and immersive while staying true to the original’s charm.
Expanding the Story of the Seven Stars
The Seven Stars storyline remains the central plot point in the Super Mario RPG remake. When Smithy destroys Star Road, these seven star pieces scatter across the world, creating the foundation for Mario’s adventure.
The remake preserves this narrative while adding subtle enhancements to character development. Players experience deeper connections with companions like Mallow and Geno, whose motivations for collecting the stars become more emotionally resonant.
Visual storytelling has improved significantly. Cut scenes now feature more expressive animations that highlight key story moments, making the quest to recover the Seven Stars feel more urgent and meaningful.
Environmental storytelling also benefits from the remake’s updated graphics. Each location where a star piece resides tells its own mini-story through detailed backgrounds and NPC interactions.
Developing the Myths of Star Road
The remake expands on the mythology surrounding Star Road itself. This cosmic pathway, where wishes become shooting stars, receives more detailed explanation through enhanced dialogue and visual cues.
Players gain deeper insight into how Star Road’s destruction impacts the Mushroom Kingdom. The connection between wishes and the fabric of the world feels more substantial in the remake.
Character reactions to Star Road’s mythology vary. Geno’s connection as a guardian gains additional context, while other characters express more diverse perspectives on the cosmic importance of wishes.
The visual representation of Star Road has been dramatically improved. Its otherworldly nature appears more magical and distinct from the earthly realms of the Mushroom Kingdom, creating a stronger contrast between the cosmic and mundane.
Character and Enemy Design
The Super Mario RPG remake stays true to the original game’s charm while giving characters and enemies a modern facelift. Nintendo has carefully balanced nostalgia with fresh design elements that appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers.
Revamped Character Models
The remake maintains the essence of the original character designs while upgrading them with modern graphics. Mario, Bowser, and Princess Peach all retain their distinctive look but now feature enhanced details and smoother animations.
Mallow and Geno, fan-favorite allies from the original game, have received special attention. Geno’s star-powered wooden body now has more detailed textures, while Mallow’s cloud-like appearance is more fluid and expressive than ever.
Enemy designs have also been faithfully recreated with modern flair. The Smithy Gang antagonists look particularly impressive with metallic sheens and mechanical details that weren’t possible in the original SNES version.
According to search results, Nintendo has been open to preserving these distinctive character designs rather than homogenizing them to match current Mario aesthetics.
Introducing New Allies and Antagonists
While the remake primarily focuses on the original cast, some subtle additions enhance the world. Several minor NPCs have expanded roles with more detailed designs and personalities.
Some bosses have received design upgrades that add new visual elements while preserving their core identity. These enhancements make battles more visually exciting without changing the fundamental gameplay experience.
The search results mention Booster specifically, with a 3D design created by artist Nikko3D that captures the character’s eccentric nature.
The game maintains a cohesive art direction across all characters. This unified approach helps both returning players and newcomers fully appreciate the unique RPG world that sets this title apart from other Mario games.
Soundtrack and Audio Improvements
The Super Mario RPG remake features a beautifully remastered soundtrack that has impressed many fans. Original composer Yoko Shimomura returned to recreate her work for the new version, bringing fresh life to the beloved music.
Most players agree the updated soundtrack is a significant improvement while still staying true to the original compositions. Shimomura’s talent shines through as she managed to enhance her own work while maintaining the nostalgic feel that fans remember.
Square Enix has announced three new music products for fans in Japan. These include the original soundtrack, an original sound box, and an original sound vinyl box collection.
The audio quality in the remake has been modernized with fuller orchestration and clearer sound. This gives familiar tunes more depth and emotional impact compared to the 16-bit originals.
While most tracks received positive feedback, some players note that a few songs don’t perfectly capture the exact mood of their SNES counterparts. However, these instances appear to be rare exceptions.
The soundtrack serves as a perfect bridge between nostalgia and modern gaming audio standards. It demonstrates how careful remastering can enhance beloved classics without losing their original charm.
Community and Critical Reception
The Super Mario RPG Remake has generated significant discussion among both longtime fans and critics since its release. The game has been praised for successfully modernizing the classic RPG while maintaining its charm.
Initial Fan Reactions
Many fans have expressed delight with how the remake honors the original Super Mario RPG while adding modern touches. The updated graphics and gameplay mechanics have been particularly well-received by the community.
Some players have noted that the game strikes a good balance between nostalgia and accessibility for newcomers. On Reddit and other forums, fans have praised how the remake “excels in bridging the gap between veteran and modern gamers.”
However, not all reactions have been entirely positive. A segment of the fanbase has criticized the remake for its lack of difficulty, with some even creating petitions for Nintendo to add a hard mode as DLC.
Reviews from Professional Critics
Professional critics have generally given favorable reviews to the Super Mario RPG Remake. Many reviewers have highlighted how Nintendo successfully updated the turn-based formula just enough to appeal to modern audiences.
The combat system has received particular praise for being “fun and engaging,” with critics appreciating how special moves and critical hits keep battles entertaining. The mini-games and bonus content have also been noted as strengths that add value to the overall package.
Some critics have pointed out that while the remake doesn’t revolutionize the original formula, it applies a “new coat of paint” that serves the game well. The visual updates and quality-of-life improvements have been viewed as thoughtful enhancements rather than radical changes.
Target Audience and Accessibility
Super Mario RPG’s remake balances nostalgia with modern improvements, making it accessible to different player groups. The game includes several changes to help more people enjoy Mario’s classic RPG adventure.
Appealing to Long-Time Fans
The Super Mario RPG remake stays true to the original game’s charm and storyline. Fans who played the 1996 version will recognize the familiar characters, locations, and turn-based battle system they loved. The game preserves the core experience while adding visual enhancements that bring the Mushroom Kingdom to life with modern graphics.
The remake maintains the unique timing-based combat that made the original stand out. Players who mastered the timed hits and blocks will feel right at home with these mechanics.
Nintendo has carefully balanced updating the game without changing what made it special. This approach ensures that the nostalgia factor remains strong for those who have waited years to revisit this RPG classic.
Catering to Newcomers in the RPG Genre
The remake includes significant accessibility improvements that make Super Mario RPG more approachable for new players. According to search results, the game has added features specifically helpful for motor-impaired players.
The streamlined RPG experience is perfect for those who might find traditional RPGs overwhelming. With simpler mechanics and a more straightforward approach than many modern RPGs, it serves as an excellent entry point to the genre.
The updated visuals help bridge the gap between retro and contemporary gaming standards. This makes the game more appealing to younger players who might be experiencing this Mario adventure for the first time.
Combat tutorials and quality-of-life improvements help ease new players into the turn-based battle system, making the RPG elements less intimidating for Mario fans who typically enjoy platformers.
Marketing and Promotional Strategies
Nintendo and Square Enix have created an impressive marketing campaign for the Super Mario RPG remake. Their strategy focused on building anticipation among both nostalgic fans and newcomers to the franchise.
The companies released a series of trailers highlighting the game’s updated graphics and new features. These promotional videos showcased the enhanced visuals while maintaining the charm of the original game.
Social media campaigns played a key role in spreading awareness. Nintendo utilized platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube to share character spotlights and gameplay mechanics, generating buzz within the gaming community.
Nintendo also leveraged nostalgia in their marketing materials. They emphasized the game’s legacy as Mario’s first RPG adventure while showing how the remake improves upon the classic formula with modern enhancements.
Pre-order bonuses and special edition packages were offered to incentivize early purchases. These included exclusive merchandise, digital content, and collector’s items that appealed to longtime fans.
Nintendo partnered with retailers for specialized promotions. GameStop, for example, has recently featured Super Mario RPG in sales events, offering the game at its lowest price since release.
The marketing efforts appear successful, as reports indicate the remake has already outsold the original game after just six weeks on sale. This demonstrates the effectiveness of Nintendo’s promotional strategy in reaching both returning players and a new generation of gamers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Players have many questions about the Super Mario RPG remake for Nintendo Switch. The game brings back the beloved classic with updated graphics and some new features while staying faithful to the original.
When is the release date for the Super Mario RPG remake?
The Super Mario RPG remake was released on November 17, 2023. Nintendo launched it worldwide on this date exclusively for the Nintendo Switch platform.
This release came nearly 30 years after the original Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars debuted on the Super Nintendo Entertainment System in 1996.
How does the Super Mario RPG remake compare to the original game?
The Super Mario RPG remake is extremely faithful to the original. It maintains the same isometric perspective and many of the original sound effects that fans loved.
The most notable differences include fully updated 3D graphics while preserving the original character designs and proportions. The remake also introduces new features like super combos and splash damage on attacks.
According to search results, the game is described as “almost a 1:1 remake” with these enhancements improving the experience without changing what made the original special.
Is there any exclusive content announced for the Super Mario RPG remake?
The remake includes several exclusive additions not found in the original game. The most significant additions are the super combo attacks, which provide new battle mechanics.
There’s also splash damage on certain attacks, allowing players to damage multiple enemies at once. These combat enhancements add strategic depth while maintaining the core gameplay.
The visual overhaul is substantial, with completely reimagined 3D environments and character models that stay true to the original designs.
What are the sales figures for the Super Mario RPG remake?
Official sales figures for the Super Mario RPG remake show strong performance since its November 2023 release. The game has sold several million copies worldwide.
Nintendo reported that the remake performed above expectations in both North American and Japanese markets. The nostalgic appeal combined with the updated graphics attracted both returning fans and new players.
The game continues to sell steadily as part of Nintendo’s first-party Switch library.
Has Nintendo confirmed a version of Super Mario RPG for the Switch platform?
Yes, Nintendo has confirmed and released Super Mario RPG for the Nintendo Switch. The game is currently available exclusively on the Switch platform.
According to the search results, GameFAQs has 66 guides and walkthroughs for “Super Mario RPG on the Nintendo Switch,” confirming its availability on the platform.
The remake was developed specifically for the Switch hardware, taking advantage of the console’s capabilities.
Are there plans to offer a physical edition of the Super Mario RPG remake?
Yes, Nintendo offers a physical edition of the Super Mario RPG remake. The physical version comes in a standard Nintendo Switch game case with a game card.
Some retailers also offered special pre-order bonuses with the physical edition, including collectible items like pins, posters, or keychains depending on the region and store.
The physical edition has been available since the launch date alongside the digital version on the Nintendo eShop.
