Released on July 17, 2025, Donkey Kong Bananza marks a triumphant return for Nintendo’s beloved ape, Donkey Kong. Developed by Nintendo Entertainment Planning & Development (EPD), this 3D platformer is the first original Donkey Kong title since Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze (2014) and the first fully 3D entry since Donkey Kong 64 (1999). Exclusively available on the Nintendo Switch 2, the game has received widespread acclaim for its innovative gameplay and engaging design.
Story and Setting
In Donkey Kong Bananza, players control Donkey Kong as he teams up with Pauline to recover stolen banana-shaped diamonds, known as Banandium Crystals, from the villainous VoidCo. Their journey takes them through vast underground environments, including forests, canyons, and lagoons, as they race against the greedy Void Kong to reach the Planet Core, a powerful artifact that can grant any wish.
Gameplay Mechanics
The game introduces a dynamic sandbox-style world where nearly every element is destructible. Donkey Kong can smash through walls, carve tunnels, and manipulate terrain to create new paths and uncover hidden items. This emphasis on environmental interaction adds a layer of depth to exploration and puzzle-solving.
A standout feature is the “Bananza Transformations,” where Pauline’s singing empowers Donkey Kong to temporarily transform into various animals, each with unique abilities. For example, he can become a zebra to gallop at incredible speeds or a giant gorilla to smash through obstacles.
The game also offers a two-player co-op mode, allowing players to team up as Donkey Kong and Pauline to tackle challenges together. Pauline’s voice can be used to blast foes and terrain alike, adding a cooperative element to the gameplay.
Reception and Critical Acclaim
Donkey Kong Bananza has been lauded by critics, achieving a Metacritic score of 90. This makes it the highest-rated exclusive for the Nintendo Switch 2 and ties it with Donkey Kong 64 as the highest-rated game in the series. Reviewers have praised its inventive destruction mechanics, superior level design, and compelling reason to own a Switch 2.
Post-Launch Content
In October 2025, Nintendo released the “DK Island & Emerald Rush” DLC, introducing a new roguelike mode called Emerald Rush. In this mode, players collect emeralds around DK Island, unlocking cosmetic rewards and decorative statues upon completion.
Additionally, the DLC includes regular in-game events, such as the “Chip Fever” event, which began on October 28, 2025, offering players new challenges and rewards.
Conclusion
Donkey Kong Bananza successfully revitalizes the franchise with its innovative gameplay, engaging story, and cooperative elements. Its critical acclaim and strong sales make it a must-play title for Nintendo Switch 2 owners and a standout entry in the Donkey Kong series.
