Mario + Rabbids: Exploring the End of a Pioneering Ubisoft-Nintendo Crossover on Nintendo Switch

Nintendo’s approach to intellectual property makes the company stand out within the gaming industry, especially compared to other major publishers.

The Mario + Rabbids series is a prime example of Nintendo selectively partnering with outside developers while maintaining creative oversight.

Developed collaboratively by Ubisoft Milan and Nintendo, the franchise brought together two iconic universes: Nintendo’s Super Mario and Ubisoft’s Rabbids.

The collaboration began with Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle, released in August 2017 exclusively for the Nintendo Switch.

This tactical RPG surprised industry watchers with its inventive gameplay and was met with both critical acclaim and strong sales, eventually selling over 10 million copies worldwide.

The positive reception set a solid foundation, leading to the 2022 launch of Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope, again on the Nintendo Switch.

The sequel was praised for its expanded mechanics, more ambitious scope, and a music team featuring celebrated composers Grant Kirkhope, Gareth Coker, and Yoko Shimomura.

However, despite its many improvements and higher critical scores, Sparks of Hope struggled commercially, reaching less than half the sales of its predecessor.

Following this downturn, the team responsible for Mario + Rabbids experienced a significant shift.

Christopher Dring, editor at GamesIndustry.biz, recently shared an update during The Game Business Show podcast.

According to Dring, “The Mario & Rabbids team has mostly dissolved.

While Ubisoft Milan continues operations, many of the creative leads have left to form a new studio.

There was a pitch for another title, but it did not receive approval—a decision believed to be linked to Nintendo.” This statement reflects a key aspect of Nintendo’s careful stewardship over its intellectual properties, often requiring rigorous quality and business benchmarks before greenlighting additional projects, even after past successes.

The decision not to move forward with a third Mario + Rabbids project highlights the careful balance Nintendo maintains when collaborating with external partners.

While the specific details about the unapproved game remain undisclosed, it’s clear the franchise’s future is uncertain for now.

Nonetheless, the legacy of Mario + Rabbids endures as one of the most inventive crossovers involving mainline Nintendo characters and third-party developers. Both titles remain accessible on the Nintendo Switch via the eShop, with the original Kingdom Battle still celebrated for its accessible strategy gameplay and dynamic use of Mario franchise characters alongside the zany Rabbids.

The series also marks an important moment in Nintendo’s modern history—demonstrating both its willingness to experiment and its commitment to protecting beloved game worlds.

As the people behind Mario + Rabbids move on to new ventures, their collaboration with Nintendo will continue to stand as a testament to creative possibility in the gaming industry.

Nintendo Switch Ubisoft Nintendo Mario Switch Sparks of Hope Rabbids Ubisoft Milan Mario + Rabbids Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope Grant Kirkhope Yoko Shimomura Gareth Coker Christopher Dring The Game Business Show