Mario Tennis Fever launches on Switch 2 on 12 February 2026 and the first wave of reviews paints a broadly favourable picture. Critics generally applaud the game's arcade accessibility, vibrant presentation and strong local multiplayer, while flagging areas where Nintendo's latest sports spin-off could have been bolder.

Most reviews highlight the series' trademark pick-up-and-play gameplay, with tight, responsive controls that suit quick matches and festival-style sessions. The game's visuals receive consistent praise for a colourful, polished look that runs well on Switch 2 hardware, and reviewers note that moments of spectacle and character animation capture the series' charm.

Sponsored

Local multiplayer emerges as a clear strength. Several outlets single out the game's ease of use in party settings and the enjoyable couch-play dynamics that have long defined Mario sports titles. The title's roster and character variety are widely described as serviceable, with a roster that feels familiar to long-time fans and accessible for newcomers.

Criticism clusters around single-player depth and the game's long-term appeal. A number of reviews call out a relatively thin solo offering and limited single-player progression, suggesting that longevity will depend on online modes and post-launch support. Online performance receives mixed notes: some critics report smooth matches, while others point to intermittent stability and matchmaking inconsistencies that could hamper competitive play at launch.

Sound design and presentation generally score well, with soundtrack and effects complementing the on-court action. Balance between accessibility and depth divides opinion; reviewers that favour a lighter, more arcade-driven experience praise the approach, whereas those seeking deeper simulation-style mechanics find the package wanting.

Aggregate impressions from the early critical consensus position Mario Tennis Fever as a successful return to form for the franchise in many respects, particularly for social and local multiplayer. Reservations about single-player content and online robustness temper enthusiasm, leaving the title described by many as fun and polished now, with longer-term success hinging on additional content and technical refinement post-launch.

Further in-depth coverage and individual review scores continue to appear as outlets publish their full assessments ahead of release day.