KYOTO, JAPAN – Recent speculations suggest a potential delay in the next 3D Mario game for Nintendo Switch 2, following the buzz around the upcoming Donkey Kong Bananza.
Immediate Impact
The gaming world is abuzz with excitement after the recent Nintendo Direct presentation showcased the highly anticipated Donkey Kong Bananza. The positive reception has sparked discussions about the development timeline for other major titles, particularly the next 3D Mario game.
Key Details Emerge
According to former Nintendo staffers Kit Ellis and Krysta Yang, the development of Donkey Kong Bananza might be handled by Nintendo’s prestigious Entertainment Planning & Development (EPD) team. This has led to speculation that the next 3D Mario game could face delays, as EPD is known for its meticulous and time-consuming development process.
“We might just be waiting for a good long time before we get the next 3D Mario game. That team is incredible; nobody’s disputing the quality, [but] they are not fast, they are not prolific, they are not pumping out games.” – Kit Ellis
Industry Response
The announcement comes as a surprise to many in the gaming community who were expecting a new 3D Mario game to coincide with the launch of the Switch 2. Yang speculates that fans might have to wait four to five years for Mario’s next big adventure, potentially placing it in the mid-to-late lifecycle of the new console.
By the Numbers
- 4-5 years potential wait for the next 3D Mario game
- July 17th release date for Donkey Kong Bananza
- 824k YouTube subscribers following Nintendo Life updates
Background Context
This development builds on Nintendo’s history of collaborating with external studios for major titles. Notably, Bandai Namco has been a regular contributor, and studios such as Rare and Retro Studios have previously revitalized the Donkey Kong franchise.
Expert Analysis
According to sources familiar with Nintendo’s internal operations, the decision to keep the development team for Donkey Kong Bananza undisclosed might be strategic. The company could be avoiding premature announcements that might disappoint fans eager for a 3D Mario game sooner rather than later.
What Comes Next
Meanwhile, industry experts warn that the timing of Donkey Kong’s release could influence Nintendo’s broader strategy for the Switch 2. The success of Donkey Kong Bananza might set a new benchmark for future titles, potentially affecting the development priorities within Nintendo.
The timing is particularly significant because it could shape the release schedule for other major franchises, including Mario. As fans eagerly await further announcements, Nintendo’s next moves will be closely watched to see how they balance the demands of their diverse gaming portfolio.
As the gaming community speculates on what lies ahead, the anticipation for both Donkey Kong Bananza and the next 3D Mario game continues to build, promising an exciting era for Nintendo enthusiasts worldwide.
