For a crossover that fans might not have anticipated, theMario + Rabbidstransition into a fully-fledged series proves it has lasting potential for both Nintendo and Ubisoft, but following upMario + Rabbids Sparks of Hopewith a threequel could prove challenging. ThoughMario + Rabbids Kingdom Battlepositioned itself as a non-canon collaboration between the two industry giants and their hit franchises, the unexpected sequel has risen to popularity among players.Sparks of Hopeeven drew greater influence fromSuper Mariocanon than its predecessor. However, this has left thestrategy-based crossover series with questions about its future.
For its first game,Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle, Ubisoft had the freedom to pool its enemies, weapons, and level designs from the wealth ofSuper Mariocontent while adding in the crazed and slapstick humor that the Rabbids bring to the table. A sequel consequently had to up the ante, requiring Ubisoft to venture further afield for content to bring toMario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope.To this end, it seems the sequel settled onSuper Mario Galaxyas a widely recognizable and popular subsection of the series, but this ultimately leaves few otherSuper Mariogames to explore in a threequel.
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Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope Sets a New Standard
Despite the tonal differences between the two flagship series, many fans would agree thatMario + Rabbidsas a concept has worked exceptionally well, capable of balancing the zaniness of the Rabbids alongside Mario’s versatile, family-friendly appeal. Combined with the unique approach of real-time strategy combat in theSuper Marioworld players are used to, the series wields a great deal of potential, especially with the additions andimprovementsMario + Rabbids Sparks of Hopebrought. But many of these changes came thanks toSuper Mariocontent providing the series its backbone to build upon.
For instance, whileMario + RabbidsKingdom Battlesaw eventual DLC include Nintendo’s other Mario-adjacent characters like Donkey Kong,Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hopedove deep into otherSuper Mariocanon withSuper Mario Galaxy. Not only did this see characters like Bowser or Rabbid Rosalina introduced to the series, but core mechanics such as thetitular Sparks and their associated combat effectswere tied directly to Lumas. Even Princess Rosalina herself was overtaken by the game’s antagonist, ultimately setting a precedentMario + Rabbids Kingdom Battlewasn’t able to, letting the games take greater influence from theSuper Marioseries.
Limited Future Options for Mario + Rabbids
Despite the series' success, the issue is whereMario + Rabbidscan go beyondSuper Mario Galaxywhen there aren’t as many content-rich or readily malleableSuper Mariogames.Super Mario Sunshineis arguably the closest contender thanks to its return inSuper Mario 3D All-Stars, but roaming Isle Delfino feels like a significant downgrade from the scope of space and interdimensional travel. Alternatively, some fans have suggested leaning instead on Mario’s novelty side ofSuper Mario Partywith settings like the Wild Westor possiblyLuigi’s Mansionas inspirations, with a playable E. Gadd or Rabbid Boos.
However, these settings would still struggle in eclipsing the scope ofMario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope. Expectations were set even higher among fans when the Rabbids' forebear was brought back to Ubisoft’s focus withRayman’s inclusion inMario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope. It’s possible that theMario + Rabbidsseries doesn’t have to rely so much on Nintendo’s content for a threequel, as Rayman’s involvement could open doors with Ubisoft with Globox, Teensies, Hoodlums, and more.
Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hopeis available now for Nintendo Switch.
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