WhileMario Kart Worldis on the horizon, which is sure to be fun, its not quite the same.
A true 3DMarioplatformer would have made the launch feel bigger and more exciting.
Instead, Nintendo is putting Donkey Kong in the spotlight withDonkey Kong Bananza, a bold new 3D platformer.
To be fair, the game seems full of energy and creativity.
One cool feature shown in the trailer isDonkey Kong Bananza’s destructible environments.
Donkey Kong can smash rocks, dig into the ground, and throw chunks of earth.
This gives players new ways to explore and interact with the environment.
you might tunnel into new areas or break down barriers, making the game feel more open.
The game also looks different from pastDonkey Kongtitles.
DK has a fresh, animated look full of personality and expressions.
The bright colors and lively environments make everything feel exciting and more alive.
The gameplay feels new and exciting, and the world looks fun to explore.
With no newMarioorZeldagames at launch,Donkey Kong Bananzacould be a big reason to check out the Switch 2.
That game was one of thebest 3DMariogames ever.
A follow-up would have been a great way to show off the new Switch 2s power.
Nintendo often launches new consoles with a bigMarioorZeldagame.
This time, were gettingMario Kart World,buta new 3DMarioplatformer would be more exciting.
WhileBananzais a nice surprise, it doesnt have the same impact.
Donkey Kong is loved, but hes not as popular as Mario.
Many people expected a newOdysseygame.
It made sense because the original sold well and was loved by fans and critics.
The movement in Odyssey felt amazing, and the game had a fun sense of adventure.
A sequel could have added more new kingdoms, powers, and surprises for Mario to discover.
Instead, were getting something completely new.
Thats not always bad, as new ideas are important, but the timing feels off.
The Switch 2 is a big launch, andnot having a3D Mariogame ready feels like a missed opportunity.
This time, hes not taking the spotlight, and thats more than a little disappointing.
The Nintendo Switch hadThe Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, withSuper Mario Odysseyreleased shortly after.
This time, the Nintendo Switch 2 is gettingMario Kart WorldandDonkey Kong Bananza, but not a new3DMariogame.
This could affect how well the console sells at first.
Mario is Nintendos most popular character.
His games almost always sell millions of copies, and fans get excited when a new one is announced.
A new 3DMariogame would be a great reason for people to buy the Nintendo Switch 2.
For younger players or casual fans, Mario is the safer and more familiar choice.
Nintendo might have plans for a newMariogame later, but missing out at launch feels like a waste.
For now, fans will have to wait.