Rumors are circulating that Nintendo may be preparing to launch a new collection of Super Mario games next year to commemorate the franchise’s 40th anniversary. Although Mario first appeared in the original Donkey Kong arcade game back in 1981, Nintendo officially celebrates his birthday with the 1986 U.S. release of Super Mario Bros. Fans are eager for a grand celebration of the plumber’s extensive gaming history as we approach 2026.
Super Mario Box Art
Nintendo often uses March 10 as a day to announce new titles or products related to Mario, considering it Mario Day due to the date resembling his name. Past celebrations have included various reveals, like LEGO sets or significant game updates, and a Mario Kart 8 Deluxe special event honoring the character’s influence on gaming.
According to a user on NeoGAF and Discord named Johnny Skinny, there’s word that Nintendo will announce a new Super Mario game collection as part of the 40th anniversary festivities. Details shared across platforms suggest that this collection could encompass titles such as:
Rumored Games in the Mario Collection
- New Super Mario Bros. - Nintendo DS, 2006
- New Super Mario Bros. Wii - Nintendo Wii, 2009
- New Super Mario Bros. 2 - Nintendo 3DS, 2012
John Skinny mentions that his source indicated the information was derived from internal documents and localization assets received via a contractor QA team previously utilized. While some fans point out notable absences, like New Super Mario Bros. U and Super Luigi U, they have since been re-released on Nintendo Switch as New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe.
It’s crucial to view this information with some skepticism until Nintendo makes an official announcement, though John Skinny has reportedly leaked accurate information on the Nintendo Switch 2 earlier this year. Fans may anticipate enjoying some classic Mario games on the upcoming Switch 2 as it celebrates the plumber’s milestone birthday.
