Nintendo and Illumination have unveiled the first trailer for Super Mario Galaxy, the long-awaited sequel to The Super Mario Bros. Movie, and fans are already dissecting every frame.
The follow-up to 2023’s blockbuster is set for release on April 3, 2026, and it’s clear this next chapter is heading far beyond the Mushroom Kingdom—straight into outer space.
As explained by IGN, the trailer opens with sweeping shots of cosmic landscapes, instantly evoking the spirit of the original Super Mario Galaxy game, released in 2007.
Viewers are quickly introduced to Princess Rosalina, voiced by Brie Larson, who appears in a grand, celestial battle against the towering Megaleg. Rosalina, known in the franchise as the protector of the cosmos, has been a fan favorite for years, and her addition to the film’s universe marks a significant expansion of the Mario mythology.
Joining her in the spotlight is Bowser Jr., voiced by Benny Safdie of Oppenheimer fame. His design takes cues from recent games, with purple-toned armor reminiscent of Super Mario Bros. Wonder. In one striking moment, Bowser Jr. brandishes his magical paintbrush—a nod to Super Mario Sunshine—while demanding the release of his father, Bowser.
Bowser himself returns in a more subdued state, shown pacing through a miniature castle, still under the effects of the shrinking spell from the last movie’s finale.
Between humming his Mario 64 theme and painting elaborate portraits of Peach and his enemies, Bowser’s isolation adds a surprising layer of character depth. Meanwhile, Mario and Luigi are seen exploring desert ruins that resemble Super Mario Odyssey’s Sand Kingdom, with nods to the town of Tostarena visible on their bikes.
Princess Peach and Toad also make notable appearances, launching into their own side adventure across beachside planets and casino-inspired worlds. Peach is shown wielding her parasol while Toad sports his recognizable explorer’s backpack from Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker.
By the time the trailer closes, viewers catch a glimpse of the Star Observatory—an unmistakable callback to the original Super Mario Galaxy.