The newest entry in Nintendo’s long-running sports franchise, Mario Tennis Fever, is just days away from launching on the Nintendo Switch 2. With the game ready to drop, the initial wave of reviews from major outlets has landed—and the scores are all over the court.

If you’re familiar with the Mario Tennis series, the core mechanics will feel like home: fast-paced arcade tennis with a heavy dose of Mushroom Kingdom chaos. The new twist this time is the “Fever Racket” system. Each character can equip a special racket with a unique ability. For example, the Mini Mushroom Racket shrinks your opponent to a comically tiny size, while others might alter ball physics or grant defensive buffs. The roster has also been expanded to a massive 38 playable characters, welcoming new faces like Goomba, Nabbit, Piranha Plant, and the chaotic babies, Wario and Waluigi.

Beyond the standard matches, the game is packed with modes. You can tackle the single-player Story Mode, climb the challenging Trial Towers, compete in Tournaments, or enjoy the unpredictable “Mix It Up” mode. For those who enjoy motion controls, Swing Mode makes a return.

So, what are the critics saying? The consensus seems to hinge on how much you enjoy the new “Fever” mechanics. Some praise the added strategic layer and sheer character variety, calling it the most fun entry in years. Others feel the special abilities can be overly disruptive to the core tennis gameplay. Review scores currently range from a solid 7/10 to a glowing 9/10, suggesting this is a game best suited for fans looking for a wild, party-friendly experience rather than a pure tennis sim.

Whether you’re a veteran of the circuit or a newcomer looking for some chaotic multiplayer fun, Mario Tennis Fever is set to serve up a storm on February 13, 2026.