Bowser’s Fury, released in 2021 for the Nintendo Switch, marked a significant milestone in the evolution of 3D Mario games. As Nintendo’s innovative take on open-world gameplay combined with the beloved Mario universe, it sparked curiosity among fans and newcomers alike. But in the broader context of Mario’s 3D adventures, many wonder: what was the last true 3D Mario game prior to Bowser’s Fury? To understand this fully, we need to explore the history of 3D Mario titles, their development, and how Bowser’s Fury fits into this lineage.
The Evolution of 3D Mario Games
Since the debut of Super Mario 64 in 1996 for the Nintendo 64, the Mario franchise has continually evolved to embrace 3D platforming. This seminal title revolutionized how players interacted with Mario, offering a vast, open-world environment with a focus on exploration, precise control, and innovative gameplay mechanics. Over the years, Nintendo has released several major 3D Mario games, each building upon the foundation laid by Super Mario 64.
Major Titles in the 3D Mario Series
| Title | Release Year | Platform | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Super Mario 64 | 1996 | Nintendo 64 | First 3D Mario, open-world exploration, 3D control mechanics |
| Super Mario Sunshine | 2002 | GameCube | Water jetpack (F.L.U.D.D.), vibrant island environments |
| Super Mario Galaxy | 2007 | Wii | Zero-gravity physics, planetary levels |
| Super Mario Galaxy 2 | 2010 | Wii | Enhanced gameplay, new power-ups, tighter controls |
| Super Mario 3D Land | 2011 | Nintendo 3DS | 3D gameplay on handheld, mix of 2D and 3D elements |
| Super Mario 3D World | 2013 | Wii U | Multiplayer, platforming in colorful worlds |
| Super Mario Odyssey | 2017 | Nintendo Switch | Open-world exploration, Capture mechanic, sandbox gameplay |
What Was the Last True 3D Mario Game Before Bowser’s Fury?
To pinpoint the last true 3D Mario game before Bowser’s Fury, it is essential to clarify what defines a “true” 3D Mario game. Typically, this refers to titles that embrace open-world exploration, 3D movement mechanics, and expansive level design rather than more linear or 2.5D platformers. Based on this criterion, the most recent mainline 3D Mario game before Bowser’s Fury was Super Mario Odyssey, released in 2017 for Nintendo Switch.
Super Mario Odyssey (2017)
Super Mario Odyssey was a landmark title that showcased Mario in a fully explorable, sandbox-style environment. It introduced Cappy, a sentient hat that allowed Mario to possess objects and enemies, adding a new layer of gameplay depth. Its vast worlds ranged from bustling cities like New Donk City to sprawling deserts and lush forests, all packed with secrets, side quests, and collectibles. The game received universal acclaim for its innovation, creativity, and depth, earning numerous Game of the Year awards.
Statistics and Data:
- Copies Sold: Over 26 million worldwide (as of 2023)
- Metacritic Score: 97/100
- Awards: Multiple “Game of the Year” honors including The Game Awards 2017
Transition to Bowser’s Fury: A New Direction
While Super Mario Odyssey was the last major open-world 3D Mario experience before Bowser’s Fury, Nintendo took a different approach with the latter. Released as part of Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury bundle, Bowser’s Fury represents a hybrid experience that blends elements of open-world exploration with structured level-based gameplay. It introduces a semi-open world map where players can freely explore and tackle challenges at their own pace, but it does not fully embrace the sandbox structure of Odyssey.
What Makes Bowser’s Fury Unique?
- Open-world environment in Lake Lapcat, allowing for freer exploration than traditional Mario levels
- Dynamic gameplay with a giant, enraged Bowser that players must tame using a new power-up called the Giga Bell
- Cooperative multiplayer mode, where a second player can control Bowser Jr.
- Integration with the existing Super Mario 3D World levels, but with a focus on boss battles and open-ended challenges
Comparing Bowser’s Fury to Past Titles
While Bowser’s Fury offers a fresh take, it is not considered a full-fledged 3D Mario platformer akin to Odyssey or Galaxy. Instead, it is more of a hybrid experience, emphasizing open-world elements within a contained environment. This marks a shift in the franchise’s design philosophy, leaning toward more experimental gameplay but still rooted in the core mechanics of 3D movement and exploration.
Key Differences
| Feature | Super Mario Odyssey | Bowser’s Fury |
|---|---|---|
| Open World | Full sandbox, multiple kingdoms | Single semi-open world map (Lake Lapcat) |
| Gameplay Focus | Exploration, puzzle-solving, collectibles | Boss battles, timed challenges, exploration |
| Multiplayer | Single-player | Co-op mode with Bowser Jr. |
| Game Length & Depth | Extensive, with numerous kingdoms and side quests | Focused, shorter experience centered on Boss Bowser |
The Future of 3D Mario Games
Nintendo continues to innovate with the Mario franchise, balancing traditional level design with open-world elements. The success of titles like Odyssey and the experimental nature of Bowser’s Fury suggest a flexible approach to game development, catering to diverse gameplay preferences. Fans eagerly anticipate future releases that might combine the expansive freedom of Odyssey with the dynamic gameplay of Bowser’s Fury.
Why Bowser’s Fury Represents a New Chapter
Although Bowser’s Fury is not a complete departure from previous 3D Mario titles, it signifies Nintendo’s willingness to experiment with open-world concepts within the franchise’s framework. It demonstrates a shift toward more dynamic, boss-centric gameplay experiences that complement the core platforming mechanics. As of 2025, it remains the latest major evolution in the 3D Mario series, paving the way for future innovations on the Nintendo Switch and beyond.
For more on Mario’s history and upcoming titles, visit Nintendo’s official Mario page or check out detailed analyses at IGN’s latest coverage.