Nintendo just dropped official confirmation that Mario Tennis Fever will feature 38 playable characters when it launches for Nintendo Switch 2, making it the biggest roster in the entire Mario Tennis saga.
The sports title arrives as one of the console’s first major releases of the year, banking on variety and nostalgia to pull fans back to the court.
The Switch 2 has been available since June 5, 2025, and Nintendo is clearly positioning this game as a heavy hitter for the early months of 2026.
Pre-orders are already live on the eShop, signaling the company’s confidence in the title’s commercial appeal.
38 characters change the game
The headlining feature is simple but effective: more characters than any previous entry.
Mario Tennis Fever’s 38-character lineup includes series staples like Mario, Luigi, Yoshi, Princess Peach, Princess Daisy, Pauline, Donkey Kong, Toad, Toadette, Wario, Waluigi, and Bowser.
Each character maintains their signature playstyle, which has always been central to the franchise’s identity.
This should be easy. 💅
Pre-order #MarioTennisFever and play as Daisy, Peach, and 36 other characters: https://t.co/71rCXOHnjo pic.twitter.com/as8Wp8TJMi
— Nintendo of America (@NintendoAmerica) January 6, 2026
This expanded roster opens up competitive play significantly. Different matchups, strategies, and team combinations give the game longevity beyond casual matches.
Whether you prefer power hitters like Bowser or technical players like Peach, the variety aims to accommodate every type of player.
Nintendo hasn’t revealed the full roster yet, but leaks suggest the remaining slots could include deeper cuts from the Mushroom Kingdom universe, potentially bringing back fan favorites from older entries or introducing brand-new faces to the court.
Launch details and what can we expect
Mario Tennis Fever hits exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2 on February 12, 2026. The game supports local multiplayer and online play, sticking to the fast-paced, accessible formula that made the series popular in the first place.
Expect quick matches, responsive controls, and the chaotic fun that defines Mario sports titles.
With the Switch 2 already established and a record-breaking character count, this release has the potential to become one of Nintendo’s strongest sports games this year.
The question now is whether the gameplay innovations match the roster ambition, something fans will find out in just days.
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