Mario Strikers Battle League gets final free update

The newest update for Mario Strikers Battle League will introduce the final wave of free characters.
birdo mario strikers battle league

The final free update for Mario Strikers Battle League has been locked in, with Nintendo announcing a 14 December 2022 launch for all players in a new trailer. The third wave of post-launch content will introduce two new playable characters, Birdo and Bowser Jr., as well as new gear sets, and a snazzy stadium.

Bowser Jr. is a passing specialist with decent strength and speed, although he’s weak in technique, meaning he’ll have a harder time taking powered shots at the goal. The new trailer for the upcoming DLC describes him as a ‘balanced player’, and he’ll likely be a solid, basic pick for younger players. His special involves the iconic Junior Clown Car, which shoots into the air and lands on the Strikers field with punching arms that rotate and spin, knocking out players in its path.

This attack goes for high damage, although it does appear to leave Bowser Jr. briefly vulnerable.

Read: Mario Strikers: Battle League is a surprisingly hardcore Nintendo game

Birdo is a shooting specialist with high technique, and low strength, speed, and passing. She’s a ‘striker with powerful shots, and an eye for goal’. Her special involves some funky dance moves, which crystallise the Strikers ball and send it shooting into the net. Anyone hit by this attack is forced into a colourful twirl.

In addition to these new Mario Strikers heroes, the wave three update will also introduce a new collectible Shellfish Gear Set, which includes seafood-inspired accessories like finned helmets and clawed gloves.

Finally, the new update will also introduce the Urban Rooftop Stadium, which features high-tech stands, glowing lights, and funky arches.

This content will be available for everyone who plays Mario Strikers Battle League, free of charge. While it’s described as the final free update for the game, we may see paid expansions or new content in future. Stay tuned to see what’s in store for this Nintendo title.

Leah J. Williams is a gaming and entertainment journalist who's spent years writing about the games industry, her love for The Sims 2 on Nintendo DS and every piece of weird history she knows. You can find her tweeting @legenette most days.