Nintendo Fans May Have to Wait for Super Smash Bros. Movie

Shigeru Miyamoto's comments suggest a more measured approach to crossover projects in Nintendo's cinematic universe.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 10:51am

An abstract, minimalist illustration featuring sharp, angular cut-out shapes in contrasting black and white, conceptually representing the varied cast of Nintendo characters and the company's deliberate approach to its cinematic universe.Nintendo's thoughtful approach to crossover projects leaves fans hopeful for a diverse range of standalone films celebrating the company's iconic characters.Somerset Today

Nintendo fans eagerly awaiting a Super Smash Bros. movie may have to temper their expectations, as Shigeru Miyamoto's recent comments suggest a more measured approach to crossover projects in the company's cinematic universe. Miyamoto revealed that the inclusion of characters like Fox McCloud in the recent Super Mario Galaxy movie was more about adding whimsical surprises rather than setting the stage for a grand crossover event. The focus, he says, is on creating engaging stories within individual franchises rather than rushing into a Marvel-style shared universe.

Why it matters

This perspective from Miyamoto is a wake-up call for fans who were hoping for a Super Smash Bros. movie. It suggests that Nintendo and Illumination are taking a thoughtful, deliberate path, prioritizing the unique qualities of each franchise over a large-scale crossover. While disappointing for some, this approach could open up opportunities to explore other Nintendo properties in standalone films, allowing for more creative freedom and depth.

The details

In an interview with Polygon, Miyamoto explained that the team behind the Super Mario Galaxy movie aimed to create a delightful experience by sprinkling in secret cameos, like the post-credits scene featuring Princess Daisy. He emphasized that the crossover approach, reminiscent of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, isn't the primary goal. Instead, the focus is on the diverse cast of characters within the Mario franchise and building engaging stories around them.

  • The Super Mario Galaxy movie was recently released.
  • Miyamoto's comments were made in an interview with Polygon.

The players

Shigeru Miyamoto

A legendary game designer and the creative force behind many of Nintendo's most iconic franchises, including Mario and Star Fox.

Illumination

The animation studio behind the Super Mario Galaxy movie and other popular animated films.

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What they’re saying

“The inclusion of various characters in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie was more about adding a touch of whimsy and surprise rather than setting the stage for a grand crossover event.”

— Shigeru Miyamoto, Game Designer

“The focus is on the unique and diverse cast of characters within the Mario franchise. With a vast array of talented characters, the team aims to create engaging stories without necessarily intertwining them into a massive crossover.”

— Shigeru Miyamoto, Game Designer

What’s next

While a Super Smash Bros. movie may not be on the immediate horizon, Nintendo's cinematic plans remain promising. Fans can look forward to a diverse range of projects that celebrate the rich history and imagination of the Mario franchise and beyond.

The takeaway

Nintendo's measured approach to crossover projects in its cinematic universe suggests a focus on quality and creativity over rushed attempts at building a shared universe. This could lead to more standalone films exploring the depth and uniqueness of individual Nintendo franchises, rather than a single, grand Super Smash Bros. movie.