What’s Next on the Board? The Future of Mario Party in 2023 and Beyond

While 2023 saw the arrival of Mario Party 3 on Nintendo Switch Online’s Expansion Pack in October, along with a remake of Super Mario RPG in November, there were no new full Mario Party titles released in 2023. This means fans eagerly anticipating a brand-new Mario Party experience had to wait. Looking towards the future, particularly after the release of Mario Party Superstars 2 in July 2024, the question is: what’s next for the beloved franchise? Given the cyclical nature of Nintendo releases, speculation runs rampant about when we might see another entry and what it might entail. Could it be a return to classic boards, a bold new gameplay mechanic, or a reimagining of a beloved title? Let’s delve into the possibilities and address some burning questions Mario Party aficionados have.

The Landscape of Mario Party: A Retrospective

Before diving into the future, it’s crucial to understand the history and trajectory of the Mario Party series. Since its debut on the Nintendo 64 in 1998, the series has consistently delivered chaotic, friendship-testing fun. Each installment introduces new boards, characters, items, and mini-games, while maintaining the core gameplay loop of rolling dice, moving around the board, and competing in frantic mini-games.

The series has seen its fair share of evolution, with some entries experimenting with car mechanics (like in Mario Party 9 and Mario Party 10) and others focusing on more traditional board game structures. The reception has been varied, with some changes embraced and others met with criticism. Recent entries like Super Mario Party and Mario Party Superstars seem to indicate a return to the series’ roots, emphasizing classic boards and gameplay while adding modern quality-of-life improvements.

Predicting the Future: What Could a New Mario Party Entail?

So, with Mario Party Superstars 2 already released in 2024, what can we anticipate for the next big installment? Here are a few possibilities:

• A True “Mario Party 12” (or Beyond): This would be a completely new entry, featuring brand-new boards, characters, and mini-games. Nintendo could introduce fresh gameplay mechanics to spice things up, potentially drawing inspiration from past entries while adding innovative twists.
• Another “Superstars” Style Game: The success of Mario Party Superstars suggests that Nintendo might revisit the concept of remaking classic boards and mini-games from across the series. This would allow them to cater to nostalgia while providing a polished and accessible experience for new players.
• A Hybrid Approach: Perhaps the next game will blend new content with remastered elements. This could involve creating entirely new boards while incorporating fan-favorite mini-games from past titles, offering the best of both worlds.
• Innovative Use of Nintendo’s Hardware: Nintendo often leverages the unique capabilities of its hardware, as seen with the Wii U’s GamePad in Mario Party 10. If a new console is on the horizon, the next Mario Party could be designed to take full advantage of its features, potentially incorporating augmented reality, motion controls, or other innovative technologies.

The design and development of games, especially educational ones, are areas of interest to the Games Learning Society, where game developers are interested in how games can be used in education and learning. You can learn more at GamesLearningSociety.org.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Mario Party

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Mario Party franchise, addressing common concerns and curiosities:

Will there be a Mario Party 12?

The possibility of Mario Party 12 remains open. Given the series’ popularity and Nintendo’s consistent support, it’s highly likely that another brand-new entry will eventually be released. Whether it arrives in 2025 or beyond remains to be seen.

Is Mario Party 3 coming to Switch?

Mario Party 3 has already arrived on the Nintendo Switch via the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack. This allows subscribers to access the classic N64 title alongside other retro games.

Will there be a Super Mario Party 2?

While there hasn’t been an official announcement of Super Mario Party 2, the success of the original leaves the door open for a sequel. However, Mario Party Superstars served as a spiritual successor, offering a more comprehensive collection of classic content.

Why is Mario Party 3 rare?

Mario Party 3 is considered rare due to a smaller print run and a late release date in the Nintendo 64‘s lifespan. This limited availability has driven up its price on the secondary market.

When did Mario Party 2 release?

Mario Party 2 was released in Japan in December 1999 and worldwide in 2000.

Will there be a Mario Party 11?

The existence of Mario Party 11 is unconfirmed and based on fan speculation and misinformation. Officially, there is no Mario Party 11.

Will there be a Mario Party 10?

Mario Party 10 was released on the Wii U in 2015 and featured Bowser Party and Amiibo Party modes.

When did Mario Party 9 come out?

Mario Party 9 was released in 2012 for the Wii.

Is Mario Party 1 2 3 coming to switch?

Mario Party 1, 2, and 3 are currently available on the Nintendo Switch via the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack.

How old is Mario Party 1?

Mario Party 1 was released in 1998 and 1999, making it approximately 25 years old.

When was Mario Party 6 made?

Mario Party 6 was released in 2004 and 2005 for the GameCube.

Do they still make Mario Party games?

Yes, Nintendo continues to develop and release Mario Party games. Mario Party Superstars released in 2021, proving the franchise remains active and popular.

What is the next big Mario game?

While not a “Party” game, Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door is a remake of the classic GameCube RPG and will be released on Nintendo Switch in May 2024. This release highlights Nintendo’s continued investment in the Mario franchise.

Is Mario Party worth buying?

The value of buying a Mario Party game depends on individual preferences. If you enjoy party games with friends and family, chaotic mini-games, and board game elements, then Mario Party is likely a worthwhile purchase. Games such as Super Mario Party and Mario Party Superstars get good sales.

Why is Mario Party so popular?

Mario Party‘s popularity stems from its accessible gameplay, competitive nature, and ability to create memorable moments with friends and family. The combination of luck, skill, and chaotic mini-games makes it a consistently entertaining experience.

Conclusion: The Dice Keep Rolling

While the exact future of the Mario Party series remains uncertain, one thing is clear: Nintendo will continue to innovate and deliver new experiences for fans of all ages. Whether it’s a brand-new installment, a remake of classic content, or a hybrid approach, the Mario Party franchise is sure to remain a staple of the gaming landscape for years to come. So, keep your eyes peeled, roll those dice, and get ready for the next party!