Super Mario 3D Land Mod Revitalizes 3DS Classic with 'Super Mario Expedition 2'

Super Mario 3D Land, Nintendo’s celebrated 3DS platformer, remains a highlight in the company’s handheld history.

First launched worldwide in November 2011, the game introduced innovative 3D mechanics to the Mario series, blending classic side-scrolling gameplay with expansive, three-dimensional worlds.

Despite persistent fan hopes, there has been no official announcement of a Nintendo Switch port for Super Mario 3D Land, leaving fans to revisit the original on Nintendo 3DS or via homebrew solutions. However, the enthusiasm surrounding Super Mario 3D Land has found new life thanks to the efforts of the talented modding community.

In January 2025, a modder known as Cyboo released a substantial mod titled “Super Mario Expedition 2.” This fan-created expansion delivers an entirely new world for players to explore, accessible for both the original 3DS hardware and the Citra emulator, which faithfully emulates 3DS games on PC.

Download links for the mod, as well as its predecessor, are available on Cyboo’s YouTube channel. Impressively, early reactions to Super Mario Expedition 2 have praised the remarkable fidelity and design quality of its levels.

Many players noted that distinguishing Cyboo’s work from Nintendo-developed stages proved difficult, a testament to the modder’s dedication to robust gameplay mechanics and thoughtful level architecture over superficial gimmicks.

Cyboo’s focus on strong foundational mechanics has resonated with fans seeking to extend their enjoyment of Super Mario 3D Land. Since its launch, Super Mario 3D Land has garnered acclaim for its inventive use of 3D effects and tight platforming controls, selling over 12 million copies worldwide and becoming one of the best-selling titles on the Nintendo 3DS.

Its continued popularity among modders and speedrunners underscores the lasting impact of the game within Nintendo’s library.

Yet, as Nintendo recently announced new projects like another remastered release of Donkey Kong Country Returns, the likelihood of a Switch port for Super Mario 3D Land remains slim in the near future. For dedicated fans willing to revisit or enhance the original experience, community projects like Super Mario Expedition 2 showcase both the enduring appeal of Super Mario 3D Land and the creativity thriving in the Nintendo modding scene.

Whether you relive classic adventures or explore new challenges crafted by fans, the legacy of Super Mario 3D Land continues to inspire players across generations and platforms.

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