Softwarization and virtualization are pivotal concepts driving the evolution of 6G mobile networks, offering unprecedented flexibility, efficiency, and innovation. This review explores the benefits, trends, and challenges associated with softwarization and virtualization in the context of 6G mobile networks. Benefits include enhanced flexibility, resource efficiency, service innovation, network slicing, and improved reliability. Trends encompass cloud-native architecture, edge computing integration, AI-driven automation, open standards, and network orchestration. Challenges include security concerns, performance overheads, interoperability issues, management complexity, and regulatory compliance. These problems must be addressed for unlocking the entire ability of softwarization and virtualization in 6G networks, enabling operators to deliver innovative services, improve network performance, and enhance the user experience. Collaboration, innovation, and adherence to standards might be crucial in navigating these challenges and realizing transformative vision of 6G mobile systems.