Nintendo has quietly dropped a new patch for Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury, surprising fans who didn’t expect further support for the hit platformer four years after its Switch debut. The Ver. 1.2.2 update, released on September 30, 2025, focuses on stability improvements and bug fixes, ensuring a smoother gameplay experience for both returning players and newcomers.
A Game That Defined a Generation
The original Super Mario 3D World launched in 2013 on the Wii U, delivering a mix of traditional Mario platforming with multiplayer-focused level design. It later returned in 2021 for the Nintendo Switch bundled with Bowser’s Fury, a semi-open-world expansion that introduced fresh mechanics and boss battles. Released as part of the 35th anniversary of Super Mario Bros., the collection became one of the Switch’s best-selling titles, moving more than 13 million copies worldwide and earning an impressive 89 average score on OpenCritic.
Details of the Surprise Patch
Nintendo’s official patch notes for Version 1.2.2 state only that “several issues have been addressed to improve the gameplay experience.” While the company did not provide specifics, players can expect improved stability, smoother performance, and fewer bugs across both Super Mario 3D World and Bowser’s Fury.
Importantly, Nintendo has clarified that local compatibility exists between Versions 1.2.1 and 1.1.0, but not with Version 1.0.0. This means players should double-check update versions when attempting local multiplayer.
Recent Updates Show Ongoing Support
This isn’t the first time 2025 has seen updates for Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury. Earlier in the year, Nintendo announced a free Switch 2 upgrade, which introduced enhanced visuals, a more stable frame rate, HDR support for Bowser’s Fury, and new GameShare and GameChat features for multiplayer sessions.
In July, a minor 1.2.1 patch was also deployed to fix a system behavior bug affecting Switch 2 players, further proving Nintendo’s commitment to polishing one of its most beloved platformers.
A Bigger Celebration Ahead for Mario Fans
The timing of this surprise patch couldn’t be better. Nintendo is preparing for the release of Super Mario Galaxy 1 + 2 on the Switch, arriving October 2, 2025, as part of the 40th anniversary celebration of Super Mario Bros. The beloved Galaxy titles, originally released on the Wii, will finally make their way to a modern Nintendo system with improved performance and quality-of-life upgrades.
Adding even more excitement, Nintendo has confirmed that a sequel to 2023’s blockbuster The Super Mario Bros. Movie is in production. Titled Super Mario Galaxy Movie, the film will hit theaters on April 3, 2026, aligning with the franchise’s milestone celebrations.
Patch Notes – Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury Ver. 1.2.2 (September 30, 2025)
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Several issues have been addressed to improve the gameplay experience.
Compatibility Note: Compatible with Ver. 1.2.1–1.1.0 for local play. Not compatible with Ver. 1.0.0.
Nintendo’s decision to keep supporting Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury years after release shows the company’s commitment to maintaining its legacy titles, even as fans eagerly await new adventures. With Super Mario Galaxy 1 + 2 just around the corner, and a new movie on the horizon, 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark year for the Mario franchise.
