A French gaming journalist just dropped what could be Nintendo’s biggest reveal of early 2026. BeeFun, who goes by the handle @beefunGB on X, claims a massive Nintendo Direct is locked in for February 10th. More importantly, he’s saying the showcase will feature the reveal of a brand new 3D Mario game – think Super Mario Odyssey 2 or whatever fresh concept Nintendo cooks up next.
The timing makes perfect sense. Nintendo typically kicks off each year with a bang during their February Directs, and after the overwhelming success of the Switch 2 launch in June 2025, fans have been hungry for first-party reveals. BeeFun specifically called this a ‘huge’ presentation, suggesting multiple major announcements beyond just Mario.
Why This Leak Feels Different
What makes BeeFun’s claim stand out is the reaction from other insiders. When ComicBook Gaming asked reputable Nintendo leaker NateTheHate about the rumor, he didn’t shoot it down. Instead, Nate simply said he had ‘nothing to share at this point.’ For those familiar with the rumor mill, that’s basically code for ‘I can’t confirm but I’m not calling BS either.’
Nintendo Directs on Tuesdays aren’t unusual – the company often schedules midweek showcases. February 10th falls perfectly into Nintendo’s typical early-year pattern. TechTimes and PlayerOne both picked up the story, noting BeeFun’s specific details about it being Nintendo’s big 2026 kickoff event covering major franchises.
The 3D Mario Angle Makes Perfect Sense
It’s been almost nine years since Super Mario Odyssey launched in 2017, and fans have been clamoring for Nintendo’s next big 3D Mario adventure. IGN recently published an article making the exact same case – that 2026 feels like the right time for Mario to return in full 3D glory on Switch 2 hardware.
Recent Nintendo patterns support this timing too. The Mario franchise has been thriving across 2D platformers (Super Mario Bros. Wonder crushed it in 2023), sports titles, and Kart racers. A new 3D flagship would perfectly round out the lineup while showing off Switch 2’s upgraded capabilities like improved frame rates and HDR support.
February 10th Direct – What Else Could Show?
If BeeFun’s leak pans out, this Direct could be stacked. Here’s what makes the most sense based on current rumors and release patterns:
- Metroid Prime 4 Beyond – Still no solid release date after years of development
- Pokémon – 2026 marks the 30th anniversary of the franchise
- Splatoon 4 – Perfect timing between Splatoon 3 (2022) and whatever comes next
- Zelda – 40th anniversary of the original Legend of Zelda
- Animal Crossing – Recent QR code leaks suggested Switch 2 developments
- Third-party Switch 2 ports – Final Fantasy VII Remake, Dragon Quest XII updates
BeeFun’s Track Record
The French journalist isn’t exactly a household name in Western gaming circles, but he’s built credibility within European Nintendo communities. His specific details – exact date, event size, and lead announcement – show confidence beyond typical speculation. The fact that coverage has spread to ComicBook, TechTimes, and PlayerOne suggests his sources carry weight.
Compare this to the typical ‘Nintendo Direct next week’ rumors that lack specifics and get debunked quickly. BeeFun went out on a limb with concrete details, which either means he’s got legitimate industry connections or he’s about to look foolish. Time will tell which.
What a New 3D Mario Means for Switch 2
A new 3D Mario would be the perfect system-seller for Switch 2 owners on the fence. Odyssey showed Nintendo could blend tight platforming with open-ended exploration and collectathons. The sequel (or spiritual successor) could push boundaries further with:
- Enhanced Joy-Con 2 motion controls
- Co-op play for multiple Marios
- Dynamic weather systems affecting platforming
- Expanded companion mechanics like Cappy
- 4K docked visuals showcasing Switch 2 power
FAQs About the Nintendo Direct Leak
Is BeeFun a credible Nintendo leaker?
BeeFun has built credibility within French gaming communities. While not as well-known as Midori or NateTheHate, his specific details about the February 10th date and 3D Mario reveal suggest confidence in his sources.
Why didn’t NateTheHate confirm or deny the leak?
NateTheHate specifically said he had ‘nothing to share at this point.’ This neutral response is significant – he typically debunks obviously false rumors outright. His silence lends credibility without explicit confirmation.
Will there really be a new 3D Mario game?
While nothing’s confirmed, the timing makes sense. Super Mario Odyssey launched in 2017, and IGN recently made the exact same prediction for 2026. Nintendo patterns suggest they’re due for a new 3D flagship.
What date is the rumored Nintendo Direct?
BeeFun claims February 10th, 2026 – a Tuesday, which matches Nintendo’s typical scheduling patterns for major showcases.
What else might appear in the Direct?
Expect updates on Metroid Prime 4, Pokémon (30th anniversary), Splatoon 4, Animal Crossing Switch 2 edition, and third-party ports like Final Fantasy VII Remake based on current rumors.
Has Nintendo commented on the leak?
No official response yet. Nintendo rarely comments on rumors, preferring to let Directs speak for themselves. Silence doesn’t confirm or deny – it’s their standard approach.
Why February for a big Nintendo Direct?
Nintendo consistently uses early-year Directs (typically February) to set the tone for their fiscal year and build momentum toward summer showcases like E3/Nintendo Direct June events.
Mark Your Calendars
February 10th is less than a month away. If BeeFun’s sources prove accurate, Nintendo fans could be in for their best Direct in years. A new 3D Mario alone would make headlines worldwide, but the ‘huge’ descriptor suggests Nintendo has multiple aces up their sleeve.
Switch 2 launched to massive success in June 2025, moving 10+ million units by September. First-party support has been strong but measured so far. A stacked February Direct would signal Nintendo’s full-throttle push into 2026 and beyond.
Keep an eye on BeeFun’s X account and major gaming outlets as February approaches. If this leak pans out, it could be the start of Nintendo’s most aggressive year of first-party releases ever on Switch 2 hardware. Mario jumping back into 3D glory would be the perfect way to lead the charge.