A more far-fetched, yet thrilling possibility: Nintendo is silently patching NSMB2 to enable a new link using their updated wireless protocol.
In late 2024, a dataminer known as OrangeSpy found unused code strings in the NSMB2 ROM labeled NWM_LINK_NEW_P2P. This suggests a peer-to-peer link that bypasses official servers—almost like a private direct connection for fan events.
What could this “new link” do?
While unlikely to be official (Nintendo rarely revisits old firmware), homebrew communities have already used the “new link” flag to create fan servers for Mario Kart 7. The keyword may actually refer to unofficial new linking methods for the 3DS. new super mario bros 23ds link new
To fully answer the keyword, here is a complete list of every official way to "link" two 3DS consoles in New Super Mario Bros. 2:
Game: New Super Mario Bros. 2
Platform: Nintendo 3DS / 2DS
Release: 2012
Let’s imagine the best-case scenario. Nintendo drops a surprise patch tomorrow. The patch note reads: “Added Link New mode.” What does that actually do in New Super Mario Bros. 2? A more far-fetched, yet thrilling possibility: Nintendo is
Here’s our wishlist based on the keyword’s hype:
None of this is confirmed. But the phrase “link new” explicitly suggests fresh connectivity, not a remaster.
If you're looking to link your game or transfer data, New Super Mario Bros. 2 (not 23DS, which seems to be a typo) for the 3DS supports the use of StreetPass and SpotPass for certain features, but direct game data linking between consoles isn't typically a feature for this game. While unlikely to be official (Nintendo rarely revisits
The most credible interpretation of the "link new" suffix is a cross-save or companion feature with a rumored New Super Mario Bros. 2 Deluxe for the Nintendo Switch.
Here’s the logic:
If this is true, "new super mario bros 23ds link new" is simply a gamer’s way of asking: “Is there a fresh way to connect my old 3DS progress to the new Switch port?”
To understand the hype, we must dissect the search string:
Put together, fans believe the keyword points to a brand-new connectivity feature for New Super Mario Bros. 2 on the 3DS that links it to a modern platform.