Get ready, gamers—a major Nintendo announcement might be just around the corner, and it could bring Mario back to the spotlight in a big way. But here’s where it gets controversial: according to leakers Attackdabacklog and Nash Weedle—who, let’s be honest, aren’t exactly known for their reliability—a mainline Nintendo Direct is rumored to drop in the third week of February 2026. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just any Direct; it’s supposedly our first glimpse at the next 3D Mario title, designed for the Nintendo Switch 2. Yes, you read that right—nearly a decade after Super Mario Odyssey stole our hearts, Mario might finally be stepping back into the limelight. But before you start planning your all-nighter, let’s break this down.
First, let’s address the elephant in the room: the sources. While Nash Weedle has had a few hits in the past, their track record is far from spotless. Attackdabacklog, on the other hand, is more of a wildcard. So, should we take this rumor with a grain of salt? Absolutely. But even if it’s just a whisper in the wind, the idea of a new 3D Mario game is enough to get fans buzzing. After all, it’s been almost ten years since we last saw Mario in a full-fledged 3D adventure—a fact that’s making some of us feel older than we’d like to admit.
But here’s the twist: this rumored Direct would coincide with the 40th anniversary of The Legend of Zelda, which falls on February 21, 2026. Could Nintendo really steal Zelda’s thunder with a Mario reveal? Or is this just a clever misdirection? Some fans argue that a Zelda-focused announcement would make more sense, while others believe Nintendo could pull off a double whammy, celebrating both franchises in style. What do you think? Is this rumor a stroke of genius or a wild goose chase?
One thing’s for sure: Nintendo needs a big splash to build hype, especially after a relatively quiet period. A 3D Mario reveal, paired with a Zelda surprise (maybe a remake?), could be exactly what the doctor ordered. But until we get an official announcement, it’s all speculation. So, what’s your take? Are you cautiously optimistic, or do you think this rumor is too good to be true? Let us know in the comments—and don’t forget to mark your calendars for the third week of February, just in case.
