Shigeru Miyamoto Reflects on Mario Franchise and Upcoming Super Mario Galaxy Movie

Nintendo’s creative visionary, Shigeru Miyamoto, is renowned as the guiding force behind some of the gaming industry’s most beloved franchises—including the perennial Mario series.

Over recent years, Miyamoto has gradually stepped back from hands-on game development, most notably serving as general producer on Pikmin 4 and directing Super Mario Run.

Today, Miyamoto’s influence is increasingly felt in broader entertainment ventures, such as the cinematic domain, while other talented Nintendo developers shepherd the evolution of Mario games for platforms like the Nintendo Switch. In a revealing interview with Casa Brutus, Miyamoto reflected on his current involvement with the Mario franchise.

He indicated that the responsibility for new Mario game development now lies with a new generation of Nintendo developers, though he continues to provide critical feedback.

"My teammates help maintain the world of Mario now, so I largely entrust development to them.

Still, I always play through the first 30 minutes or so to ensure the game interface truly embodies the spirit of Mario," Miyamoto explained. Amid laughter, Miyamoto playfully suggested that his involvement could decrease even further in the future, perhaps ceding all oversight to his colleagues.

He made clear, however, his enduring wish to stay in good health for Mario’s 50th anniversary in 2035.

“After Super Mario Odyssey, I feel we've truly explored the possibilities of the Nintendo Switch.

Historically, each new Nintendo console arrived with a Mario title, so I’m curious how the team will approach this challenge in the future,” he said.

Miyamoto jokingly added, “Maybe soon I’ll just let them get on with it without me looking at all! My hope now is to stay healthy until Mario's 50th anniversary.” The conversation also included updates on the highly anticipated Super Mario Galaxy Movie, marking Nintendo’s ongoing expansion into film.

Miyamoto confirmed the movie has reached its "final stages of production," and shared that the experience is expected to delight audiences.

The project recently drew extra attention when US baking company Pillsbury inadvertently revealed the introduction of the beloved character Yoshi through a product listing.

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is set for theatrical release on April 3, 2026, with its first trailer scheduled to premiere later this month ahead of screenings for "Wicked: For Good." Miyamoto’s remarks underline a significant transition for Nintendo: as the company entrusts its flagship franchises to new creative leads, it aims to honor legacy while innovating for the future.

Both longtime Mario fans and newcomers to the Nintendo Switch ecosystem have plenty to anticipate, from fresh game experiences to a major film release.

As Mario approaches another milestone, Nintendo's celebrated approach of blending tradition and innovation continues to shine, both on screens and beyond.

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