Nintendo fans were excited to finally see what’s coming with the Nintendo Switch 2, but many were surprised and a bit disappointed that a follow-up to Super Mario Odyssey wasn’t part of the launch lineup. While Mario Kart World is on the horizon, which is sure to be fun, it’s not quite the same. A true 3D Mario platformer would have made the launch feel bigger and more exciting.

Instead, Nintendo is putting Donkey Kong in the spotlight with Donkey Kong Bananza, a bold new 3D platformer. To be fair, the game seems full of energy and creativity. Still, for many fans, it’s hard not to miss the magic of Super Mario Odyssey, a game that still stands out as one of the best on the original Switch.

Donkey Kong Bananza Gameplay Footage Looks Fun

Donkey Kong Bananza Gives DK Fans Something New

Donkey Kong Bananza looks genuinely fun, and it's nice to see DK getting the spotlight. One cool feature shown in the trailer is Donkey 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 can tunnel into new areas or break down barriers, making the game feel more open.

The game also looks different from past Donkey Kong titles. DK has a fresh, animated look full of personality and expressions. The bright colors and lively environments make everything feel exciting and more alive. There’s even a new sidekick, a small purple rock creature that rides on DK’s shoulder, ready to help out. Bananza has a lot of potential. The gameplay feels new and exciting, and the world looks fun to explore. With no new Mario or Zelda games at launch, Donkey Kong Bananza could be a big reason to check out the Switch 2.

We haven’t had a new Donkey Kong entry since 2014, so it’s nice to see him back in action, and Bananza releases July 17, 2025, a month after the Nintendo Switch 2. Still, I have to say, I’m disappointed that this is the direction Nintendo chose to go in, rather than giving us a sequel to one of the Nintendo Switch’s best games, Super Mario Odyssey.

Nintendo Should’ve Made Super Mario Odyssey 2 Instead

Mario Is A More Popular Character Than Donkey Kong

Even though Donkey Kong Bananza looks like a fun new game, many fans were hoping for something else, like a sequel to Super Mario Odyssey. That game was one of the best 3D Mario games ever. A follow-up would have been a great way to show off the new Switch 2’s power. Nintendo often launches new consoles with a big Mario or Zelda game. This time, we’re getting Mario Kart World, but a new 3D Mario platformer would be more exciting. While Bananza is a nice surprise, it doesn’t have the same impact. Donkey Kong is loved, but he’s not as popular as Mario.

Many people expected a new Odyssey game. 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, we’re getting something completely new. That’s not always bad, as new ideas are important, but the timing feels off. The Switch 2 is a big launch, and not having a 3D Mario game ready feels like a missed opportunity.

While Donkey Kong Bananza might turn out great, it’s hard not to feel a bit let down. Mario has been Nintendo’s mascot for decades, and his games usually lead the way for new consoles. This time, he’s not taking the spotlight, and that’s more than a little disappointing.

A 3D Mario Game At Switch 2’s Launch Would Help Sales

Mario Is One Of Nintendo's Best Selling Games

Launching a new console is a big moment, and having the right games at launch is important. The Nintendo Switch had The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, with Super Mario Odyssey released shortly after. This time, the Nintendo Switch 2 is getting Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza, but not a new 3D Mario game. This could affect how well the console sells at first.

Mario is Nintendo’s most popular character. His games almost always sell millions of copies, and fans get excited when a new one is announced. A new 3D Mario game would be a great reason for people to buy the Nintendo Switch 2. It’s the kind of game that shows off the new hardware with better graphics, smoother gameplay, and bigger worlds.

Donkey Kong is also a classic Nintendo character, but his games don’t have the same reach as Mario’s. Bananza looks fun, but it doesn’t create the same level of excitement. For younger players or casual fans, Mario is the safer and more familiar choice. Nintendo might have plans for a new Mario game later, but missing out at launch feels like a waste. For now, fans will have to wait. The Switch 2 is off to a decent start, but a big sequel to Super Mario Odyssey would have made it even better.