E3 2021: Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope leaked, with Bowser and Rosalina as new characters

What you need to know

• Nintendo accidentally leaked the Mario + Rabbids sequel website this morning and then took the page down.
• Ubisoft was set to present at E3 today at 11 AM PT where they will probably officially announce the game.
• Among previously seen characters, Bowser and Rosalina will be in the sequel.

E3 2021 officially stated this morning with the Ubisoft Forward showcase leading the charge as the first big presenter. Among other things, Ubisoft was set to reveal Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope, a sequel to the original Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle game on Nintendo Switch. However, earlier this morning, Nintendo themselves accidentally leaked the game by activating the website prematurely before taking it down again. The page is back up now that the game was officially announced at the Ubisoft Forward event.

From the pictures and videos shown, we can see that Bowser, Rosalina, and Lumas (Rosalina's star friends) are joining the existing cast of Mario + Rabbids characters. Though, it's unknown at present whether Bowser will be on Mario's team or if he will serve as an antagonist.

This journey will be taking Mario and friends into space. We also see that Luigi is shown using a bow and arrow while Peach has an umbrella cannon. New weapons and abilities are probably in store for us. It's possible this could be bigger than the last game, so make sure you've got enough room on your microSD card.

Here's what Nintendo's official page says:

Team up with Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Rabbid Peach, Rabbid Luigi, and their friends on a galactic journey to defeat a malevolent entity and save your Spark companions. Explore planets throughout the galaxy as you uncover mysterious secrets and compelling quests!

• Build your dream team with three heroes from an eclectic roster of nine.
• Take down all new bosses, along with some familiar enemies throughout the galaxy.
• Rescue the adorable Sparks throughout the galaxy, who provide distinct powers that will help you in battle.
• Unleash your heroes' skills but be strategic as you dash your enemies, team jump on your allies, and hide behind covers.

We do not have a fast release date yet, but Nintendo's website says it will release exclusively on Nintendo Switch sometime in 2022.

The first game, Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle, is a silly tactical shooter where players command Mario, Peach, Luigi, and Yoshi along with their Rabbid imposters to battle against evil Rabbids. It's one of the Nintendo Switch's best-sellers and a great game for people of all ages. You should definitely check it out if you haven't already.