Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope is likely to be the first big story to be announced from Ubisoft Forward at E3 2021 - even though the conference has yet to take place. This morning (June 12), the game was briefly listed on the Nintendo Switch eShop, and then disappeared from sight, as a tiger-eyed Nintendo fan witnessed. Before Nintendo removed its listing, however, they were able to save screenshots and a basic description of the game.

The information came from various users on social media, but Tom's Guide staff first saw the game listed through podcaster Laura Kate Dale. For fans who have played Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battles, this will not come as a surprise. Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope is another turn-based strategy game in which you form a team of Mario characters and Rabbids, explore a colorful and spacious world, and improve your skills and weapons over time. according to the eShop listing

"Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Rabid Peach, Rabid Luigi and their friends team up and embark on a galactic journey to defeat malevolent entities and save your friends in Spark. Explore planets across the galaxy as you discover mysterious secrets and fascinating quests!"

In other words, if Kingdom Battle is based on the more traditional Mario games, Sparks of Hope seems to be inspired by Super Mario Galaxy. To reinforce the connection to Super Mario Galaxy, one of the screenshots also shows off a Rabbids version of Rosalina, an important character from both games.

Other screenshots show Mario and two party members exploring a seaside outpost and the interior of a crumbling, scary castle. We have yet to see any combat in the game, but promotional images show Mario holding two pistols and Luigi holding a bow that shoots energy arrows. (Princess Peach appears to have a cannon that fires from Rabbit's hat.) I wonder how that will function in the game.)

At this point, more details will be announced at the Ubisoft Forward presentation today at 3pm ET, and there may be more at the Nintendo Direct on Tuesday, June 15 at 12pm ET. Either way, we'll be waiting with baited breath; given that the eShop release date is 2022, Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope is likely a long way off.

In the meantime, Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle is on sale frequently and is one of the most original and surprising Switch games. If you haven't played it yet, give it a try.