Mario Strikers: Battle League Release Date, Trailer, And Gameplay - What We Know So Far
There's seemingly no end to the number of "Mario" games on the Nintendo Switch. At one point, the internet was bracing for the death of Mario, but it looks like Nintendo isn't done trotting out the happy-go-lucky plumber for new adventures. In fact, as fans have just learned, the new animated "Super Mario Bros" movie isn't the only exciting 2022 release for Mario and his pals. "Mario Strikers: Battle League" was announced in the February 2022 Nintendo Direct livestream.
"Mario Strikers: Battle League" is the third installment in the soccer-focused series, following "Mario Strikers" and "Mario Strikers Charged." Like previous "Super Mario" sports titles, the "Strikers" series definitely cranks up the action and excitement, adding in special moves and all sorts of other fun elements.
Fans have plenty of questions about how the series might have evolved in that time. Luckily, Nintendo released quite a bit of information about the upcoming soccer game. Here's what we know so far about "Mario Strikers: Battle League."
When will Mario Strikers: Battle League be released?
"Mario Strikers: Battle League" is coming out June 10, 2022, according to the announcement trailer. Soccer fans and "Mario" fanatics don't have to wait too long to take their opponents to the green.
The previous "Mario Strikers" games came out pretty quickly after each other, with the first coming out in 2005 and the second in 2007. However, the series hadn't seen a new game since then. It looked like Nintendo was done with the series until the 2022 Direct – 15 years went by without fans getting any solid word about it. Now, series fans and newcomers will be able enjoy the series' unique gameplay on the most powerful Nintendo system to date!
If June feels too far away, never fear: "Mario Kart 8 Deluxe" will be adding new courses in March, so that should tide you over until "Battle League" lands in stores.
Is there a trailer for Mario Strikers: Battle League?
When Nintendo first announced "Mario Strikers: Battle League," the company also treated fans to a three-minute trailer. Between cinematics and gameplay clips, fans got a look at some of their favorite characters — Yoshi, Princess Peach, Toad, Bowser, Donkey Kong, and more — particpating in one intense match after another.
The trailer also offered a glimpse at some themed arenas, including one modeled after Bowser's Castle. According to the trailer, fans can look forward to online play, which will allow players to create clubs with up to 20 members. Clubs can then compete against other players online for rankings and bragging rights.
Additionally, the trailer explained that there will be a variety of elements that can influence gameplay. For example, the outfits worn in the game aren't just for show. "Mario Strikers: Battle League" will feature customizable gear that have an effect on a character's strength, speed, shooting, passing, and technique.
What's the gameplay like in Mario Strikers: Battle League?
"Mario Strikers: Battle League" is a soccer game, so the main gameplay will naturally revolve around trying to score goals against the opposing team. Judging from the trailer, teams appear to consist of four players each. For multiplayer experiences, players can choose to play locally or in online matches.
Of course, this is not just your regular soccer game, though. Much like in "Mario Kart," the title will include items that can help your team achieve victory, such as a shell that can be kicked across the map to knock down enemy players. If you manage to snag a Hyper Strike Orb, it can be charged up and used to make a goal count twice — if you can get the ball in.
"Mario Strikers: Battle League" also features some special rules that aren't normally considered fair play in soccer. According to the Nintendo of America Twitter account, players will be able to tackle opponents to get a winning edge.