Nintendo announced a global presentation for its highly anticipated exclusive title, Donkey Kong Bananza, for the upcoming Switch 2 console. The game was given its own dedicated Nintendo Direct and is shaping up to be one of the most innovative entries in the franchise. What sets Donkey Kong Bananza apart is its bold approach to breaking conventions in 3D platformers, offering multiple layers of exploration both literally and figuratively. In this title, Donkey Kong is no longer confined to simply jumping from platform to platform; he punches, destroys, digs, and most importantly, reconfigures space with his fists. The game features a destructible world where probing the ground is essential for progress. Players can tap into the soil to reveal hidden passages and then dig out actual underground tunnels.
DK will not embark on this new adventure alone; he will be accompanied by Pauline, who brings a musical dimension to the game. By singing, she enables Donkey Kong to transform into various animals, each offering different abilities. For instance, Bananza Kong grants even more power, Bananza zebra offers greater speed, and Bananza ostrich allows for brief flight and dropping eggs on enemies’ heads. These transformations require banana energy, a resource that players must manage carefully, adding an element of strategy to the gameplay. Another major feature of the game is underground exploration, where each layer of the planet is filled with hidden treasures, fossils to exchange, golden bananas to collect, and various challenges such as timed stages, races, and horizontal scrolling sections. Players can also take a break by digging shelters, listening to unlocked music, or quickly traveling via Ascenguilles, aquatic creatures that serve as teleportation points.
Nintendo also offers a co-op mode that is playable locally with two players using shared Joy-Con controllers, as well as online gameplay featuring voice or video chat via GameChat. Pauline is not just a narrative support character; she is also playable and uses singing to activate Donkey Kong’s transformations, adding a sound-based element to the gameplay. Notably, players can share one game copy between two consoles using GameShare, which is quite welcome. This approach intelligently facilitates multiplayer experiences without increasing costs significantly.
Nintendo continues to enhance the experience with “Donkey Kong Bananza,” which will include a photo mode and a DK Artist mode, allowing players to sculpt rock blocks with effects and lighting. Regarding merchandise, amiibo figures featuring Donkey Kong and Pauline will be available at launch, enabling early access to cosmetic items such as Pauline’s diva dress or explosive KONG letters, along with additional bonuses from other figurines. Additionally, a cosmetics system allows customization of Donkey Kong and Pauline through accessories, fur colors, and outfits, which also provide gameplay advantages.
Donkey Kong Bananza has been announced as the highly anticipated return of the iconic gorilla character. It is being hailed as potentially the best DK game since Donkey Kong Country Returns. The game offers a rich, cooperative, and varied adventure filled with surprises, featuring advanced narrative potential and significant gameplay freedom. Mark your calendar for July 17 on Switch 2 to experience this eagerly awaited title.
