Everything you need to know about Donkey Kong Bananza and its jump to Nintendo Switch 2
Donkey Kong Bananza marks the triumphant return of one of Nintendo’s most iconic characters, who hadn’t starred in a 3D adventure in years. This new Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive not only revives the series’ classic spirit but also adds modern mechanics, co-op features, and deeply reworked gameplay, setting a new standard in platforming.
Developed by the team behind Super Mario Odyssey, the game aims to become a new technical and creative milestone for the console.
Critical and fan acclaim
Since its release on July 17, Donkey Kong Bananza has earned praise from both critics and players. On platforms like Metacritic, it holds an average score above 90, positioning itself as a strong contender for Game of the Year.
Reviewers praise its ability to reinvent the franchise without losing its essence, offering a blend of action, exploration, humor, and innovative level design.
GameShare, GameChat, and voxel-based exploration
Among its standout features is GameShare, which lets a friend join the game even without owning a copy. This works across both Switch 2 and Switch 1, greatly enhancing accessibility.
There’s also GameChat, a built-in voice chat tool that’s free at launch and perfect for online co-op.
The game uses voxel-based destruction, allowing players to alter the environment, unlock hidden paths, and discover rewards. Donkey Kong is joined by Pauline, and together they explore jungles, ruins, and caverns through a story packed with surprises.
The experience is enriched by side missions, puzzles, both 2D and 3D challenges, and a system of camps where players can enhance skills, buy outfits, and manage inventory—adding a subtle RPG touch.
A respectful and modern redesign
One of the most talked-about aspects is Donkey Kong’s new look. The design team worked closely with Nintendo’s veteran artists to craft an updated 3D version of the gorilla that feels both familiar and fresh.
Detailed facial animations, body proportions, and iconic features like his hair tuft have been carefully redesigned. The result is a more expressive, agile, and charismatic Donkey Kong who still feels like the character fans know and love.
Technical performance and visuals
On the technical side, Donkey Kong Bananza takes full advantage of Switch 2’s capabilities, with improved resolution, advanced physics, and near-instant load times. Though minor frame drops occur during moments of intense destruction, developers say these are deliberate trade-offs to preserve gameplay fun.
Performance remains smooth and consistent in both handheld and docked modes.
From Switch 1 to Switch 2: a key evolution
Initially developed for Switch 1, the game was moved to Switch 2 midway through development. This allowed the team to expand levels, enhance voxel mechanics, and even add mouse support in co-op mode, a first for the platform.
According to developers, the move wasn’t just technical but creative: Switch 2 enabled them to bring their full vision to life.
A celebration for Nintendo fans
Donkey Kong Bananza isn’t just a game—it’s a celebration of the franchise, a love letter to Nintendo fans, and a sign of the direction the series could take in the future.
With the v1.1.0 update already live, expanded co-op modes, and stellar reviews, this title is poised to become not just a Switch 2 highlight, but a major moment in Donkey Kong’s legendary history.
