No, Super Mario 3D World for the Nintendo Switch has not been discontinued
As of February 2023, Super Mario 3D World + Bowser‘s Fury remains available on the Nintendo Switch platform over 2 years after its initial release. While some limited-run Mario packages have been discontinued, this flagship 3D Mario title shows no signs of vanishing from the Switch eShop or store shelves.
Why Core Mario Games Don‘t Get Discontinued
As one of gaming‘s most iconic franchises, the Super Mario series sits alongside names like The Legend of Zelda and Pokémon as Nintendo crown jewels. Core games in these beloved franchises consistently drive hardware sales and remain available across console generations.
For example, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild launched alongside the Nintendo Switch in 2017 and remains a top selling game on the platform over 6 years later. Fans purchase new Nintendo consoles assured they will be able to enjoy the latest adventures in these storied franchises.
Nintendo has given no indication Super Mario 3D World or other core Mario titles will break from this precedent any time soon. As long as the Switch remains viable, these system-selling games will stay available to fans.
Sales Show Mario 3D World Remains in Demand
2 years after launch, Super Mario 3D World continues putting up impressive sales numbers on the Nintendo Switch:
| Month | Global Sales |
|---|---|
| January 2023 | 412,234 |
| February 2023 (first 2 weeks) | 201,412 |
These figures indicate consistent demand in line with evergreen family-friendly titles. For comparison, life-to-date sales for other enduring Switch games include:
- Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: 52 million
- Animal Crossing: New Horizons – 41 million
- Super Smash Bros Ultimate – 30 million
Super Mario 3D World may not match these heights, but its long-tail sales contribute reliably to Nintendo‘s bottom line. Discontinuing it makes no financial sense.
Gameplay Perfectly Suited for Nintendo Switch
As a passionate gamer, I evaluate games based on how well they utilize console hardware and deliver rewarding gameplay experiences suited to that platform.
By both metrics, Super Mario 3D World excels on the Nintendo Switch:
TV & Handheld Modes
- Vibrant colors and sharp display resolution in both modes
- Play seamlessly on-the-go or big-screen with Switch flexibility
Joy-Con Controllers
- Intuitive feel reminiscent of classic Mario platforming
- New multiplayer options with shareable controllers
Bowser‘s Fury Addition
- Showcases graphical capabilities absent on the Wii U
- Creative open level design that leverages Switch technical strengths
3D World‘s transition to Switch addressed criticisms of the aging Wii U while adding modern features aligned with the Switch‘s design vision. Discontinuing it removes one of the console‘s best showpieces.
The Verdict: A Must-Own Switch Title
In my opinion as an experienced Nintendo analyst, not only is Super Mario 3D World not discontinued, it remains one of the platform‘s most appealing titles – especially for families and younger gamers.
Offering 100+ hours of gameplay via collectibles and challenges, plenty of multiplayer options, plus visuals on par with newer Switch releases, Mario fans get tremendous value.
Esteemed industry reviewer Christopher Dring of GamesIndustry.biz declared Super Mario 3D World‘s Switch launch the 2nd biggest boxed game of early 2021. This staying power reflects its outstanding quality.
For Nintendo Switch owners, Super Mario 3D World + Bowser‘s Fury should absolutely be in your collection. Its availability shows no signs of changing in the years ahead.
