DONKEY KONG BANANZA
Nintendo's most ambitious platformer adventure of 2025 - An exclusive Nintendo Switch 2 masterpiece featuring the legendary ape in his biggest journey yet!
The Ultimate Donkey Kong Experience Awaits
A Revolutionary Platform Adventure
Step into the most expansive and detailed Donkey Kong universe ever created. This Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive platformer combines classic barrel-throwing action with modern 3D exploration, offering players an unprecedented journey through meticulously crafted environments that span from lush jungle canopies to mysterious underground caverns.
Developed exclusively for Nintendo's next-generation hardware, this epic adventure leverages the enhanced processing power and innovative features of the Switch 2 to deliver stunning visual fidelity, seamless co-operative gameplay, and immersive audio design that brings DK's world to life like never before.
Story & Setting
When the notorious King K. Rool returns with his most diabolical scheme yet, stealing not just Donkey Kong's precious banana hoard but also kidnapping his friends across multiple dimensional realms, our beloved ape hero must embark on his most challenging quest. Travel through five distinct world environments, each containing multiple sprawling levels filled with secrets, collectibles, and innovative gameplay mechanics.
From the familiar Jungle Japes to the brand-new Crystal Caves and Mechanical Metropolis, every environment tells a story and presents unique challenges that will test both newcomers and series veterans. The game features over 40 main levels plus numerous bonus stages, hidden areas, and optional challenges that extend gameplay well beyond the main storyline.
Game Statistics
- 40+ Levels: Across 5 major worlds
- 20+ Boss Battles: Including epic multi-stage encounters
- 500+ Collectibles: Banana coins, puzzle pieces, and secret letters
- 15+ Characters: Each with unique abilities and playstyles
- Co-op Campaign: Full story playable with a friend
- Time Attack Mode: Speedrun challenges for every level
- Photo Mode: Capture stunning moments in your adventure
- Accessibility Options: Comprehensive support for all players
Official Announcement Trailer - Nintendo Direct
Experience the excitement of DK's return in this stunning 2-minute reveal trailer showcasing the game's beautiful environments, dynamic gameplay, and beloved characters in action!
Trailer Highlights
This reveal trailer premiered during the Nintendo Direct presentation and showcases several key elements that make this the definitive DK experience. Watch as our hero swings through vine-filled jungles, rolls through underground mine cart sequences, and faces off against reimagined classic enemies in spectacular fashion.
The trailer features exclusive gameplay footage from three different worlds, giving viewers a taste of the variety and innovation that awaits in the full game. Pay special attention to the new dynamic camera system that seamlessly transitions between 2.5D and full 3D perspectives during key moments.
Revolutionary Gameplay Features
This Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive platformer introduces groundbreaking mechanics while honoring the classic gameplay that made Donkey Kong a household name. Every feature has been designed to take advantage of the console's enhanced capabilities.
Enhanced Donkey Kong Controls
Master DK's evolved moveset featuring precise barrel throwing, enhanced ground pound abilities, and new traversal mechanics. The responsive controls make platforming feel more intuitive than ever, with haptic feedback that lets you feel every jump, roll, and vine swing.
- Barrel targeting system with trajectory preview
- Multi-directional ground pound with area effects
- Wall-climbing and ceiling-hanging abilities
- Customizable control schemes for accessibility
Dynamic Destructible Environments
Bash, throw, and smash through fully destructible environments that react realistically to your actions. The advanced physics engine creates spectacular chain reactions when you break through walls, topple structures, or trigger environmental hazards.
- Real-time destruction physics
- Environmental puzzle solving
- Secret areas revealed through destruction
- Rebuilding mechanics in certain levels
Vast Interconnected Worlds
Explore five massive world hubs, each containing 8-10 main levels plus hidden bonus stages. From tropical jungles to frozen tundras, underwater temples to volcanic caverns, every environment offers unique challenges and spectacular visual design.
- Non-linear world progression with multiple paths
- Hidden warp zones connecting distant areas
- Weather systems affecting gameplay
- Day/night cycles in select environments
Seamless Cooperative Adventure
Experience the entire campaign with a friend as Pauline joins DK's quest. The intelligent co-op system allows for both coordinated teamwork and independent exploration, with unique two-player mechanics and combination attacks.
- Drop-in/drop-out local co-op support
- Character-specific abilities and paths
- Combo attacks requiring coordination
- Shared progression and collectibles
Epic Multi-Stage Boss Encounters
Face off against over 20 unique boss enemies, including returning favorites and brand-new adversaries. Each boss battle features multiple phases, environmental interactions, and requires mastery of different gameplay mechanics to defeat.
- Multi-phase boss encounters with evolving patterns
- Environmental boss battles using surroundings
- Optional super bosses for experienced players
- Cinematic finishing moves and victory sequences
Comprehensive Collection Systems
Discover over 500 collectible items scattered throughout the adventure. Banana coins unlock new abilities, puzzle pieces reveal concept art, and secret letters spell out bonus content. Master completionist challenges for ultimate rewards.
- Banana coins for ability upgrades and customization
- Puzzle pieces unlocking gallery content
- Secret letters revealing bonus levels
- Achievement system with 100+ challenges
Meet the Heroes and Villains
This epic adventure features the largest cast of playable characters in any DK platformer, each bringing unique abilities and personality to the quest. Switch between heroes seamlessly or team up in cooperative play.
Donkey Kong
The legendary ape hero returns with enhanced strength and agility. DK's powerful ground pound can break through tough barriers, while his barrel throwing skills have been refined for precision targeting. His leadership keeps the group together through the toughest challenges.
Special Abilities:
- Devastating ground pound attacks
- Barrel throwing with targeting assistance
- Super strength for moving heavy objects
- Charge attacks that break through walls
Pauline
Mayor Pauline brings grace and intelligence to the adventure, with acrobatic abilities that complement DK's raw power. Her unique skill set opens up new traversal options and puzzle-solving approaches that add strategic depth to every level.
Special Abilities:
- High jump and double jump mechanics
- Grappling hook for distant platforms
- Stealth mode for avoiding certain enemies
- Musical attacks that stun opponents
King K. Rool
The series' iconic villain returns more menacing than ever, having conquered multiple dimensional realms in his quest for ultimate power. This time, his schemes involve reality-bending technology that threatens the very fabric of DK Island and beyond.
New Abilities:
- Dimensional portal manipulation
- Robotic army command systems
- Weather and environmental control
- Multiple battle forms and phases
Diddy Kong
DK's loyal sidekick appears throughout the adventure, offering assistance and unlocking special bonus challenges. While not fully playable in the main campaign, Diddy's speed and agility make him the star of dedicated racing sequences and aerial challenges.
Rambi the Rhino
The beloved animal companion returns in select levels, offering unstoppable charging power and the ability to access previously unreachable areas. Riding Rambi transforms platforming into exhilarating speed challenges through specially designed obstacle courses.
Kremlings Army
K. Rool's enhanced army features over 30 different enemy types, from classic Kremlings with new abilities to entirely new mechanical creatures. Each enemy requires different strategies to defeat, keeping combat fresh throughout the adventure.
Complete Gameplay Deep Dive
Watch this comprehensive 8-minute overview showcasing advanced gameplay mechanics, world exploration, character abilities, and the innovative features that make this the ultimate DK platforming experience!
Gameplay Deep Dive Breakdown
0:00 - 2:30: World Exploration
See how the interconnected world hub system works, with multiple paths and hidden shortcuts connecting different areas. The video demonstrates the non-linear progression that lets players choose their own adventure path.
2:30 - 4:45: Combat & Abilities
Detailed look at the enhanced combat system, showing combo attacks, environmental interactions, and the unique abilities of both DK and Pauline in challenging enemy encounters.
4:45 - 6:15: Cooperative Gameplay
Exclusive footage of two-player cooperative mechanics, including synchronized platforming, combination attacks, and how the game adapts difficulty based on the number of players.
6:15 - 8:00: Boss Battle Preview
Epic multi-phase boss encounter against one of K. Rool's mechanical lieutenants, showcasing the environmental destruction, pattern recognition, and cinematic finishing moves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Nintendo's biggest platformer adventure of 2025. Get answers about gameplay, technical features, release details, and more.
Release & Platform
When does this epic DK adventure release?
The game launches exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2 on July 17, 2025. This date coincides with the summer release window that Nintendo has traditionally used for major first-party exclusives, ensuring maximum availability during the peak gaming season.
Will this be available on original Switch or other platforms?
This is a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive title, designed specifically to showcase the enhanced hardware capabilities of Nintendo's next-generation console. The game requires the increased processing power, improved graphics capabilities, and additional memory of the Switch 2 to deliver the full experience as intended by the development team.
What's the pricing and are there different editions?
The standard edition is priced at $69.99 USD. Pre-ordering includes the exclusive Golden DK skin and early access to bonus challenges. A Collector's Edition featuring a DK figurine, soundtrack, and art book will be announced closer to launch with limited availability.
Gameplay & Features
Does the game support cooperative multiplayer?
Yes! The entire campaign can be experienced in local co-op with a friend. Player one controls DK while player two takes on the role of Pauline, each with unique abilities that complement each other. The intelligent co-op system allows both players to work together on puzzles or split up to explore different paths simultaneously.
How does this compare to previous Donkey Kong Country games?
While honoring the classic 2D platforming roots of the Country series, this adventure expands into full 3D exploration similar to DK64 but with modern design sensibilities. The game seamlessly blends traditional side-scrolling segments with open-world hub exploration, underwater swimming mechanics, and vehicle-based sequences that weren't possible in previous entries.
What accessibility features are included?
The game includes comprehensive accessibility options: customizable control schemes, visual indicators for audio cues, adjustable difficulty settings, colorblind-friendly UI options, and motion-sickness reduction settings. Text can be resized, and important dialogue includes visual representations to ensure all players can enjoy the adventure.
Technical & Content
How long is the main campaign and total content?
The main story campaign offers approximately 15-20 hours of gameplay, while completionist players can expect 40-60 hours to discover all secrets, collectibles, and bonus content. With 40+ main levels, 20+ boss battles, and numerous hidden areas, there's substantial content for both casual and dedicated players.
Will there be post-launch content or DLC?
While the base game is a complete experience, Nintendo has indicated that additional content expansions are being considered based on player reception. Potential DLC could include new worlds, characters, and gameplay modes, though specific details will be announced after the main game's release.
Are there performance options for handheld vs docked play?
The game automatically optimizes performance based on your play mode. Docked mode delivers 4K resolution at 60fps with enhanced lighting effects, while handheld mode maintains smooth 60fps gameplay at 1080p with slightly reduced particle effects to preserve battery life. Both modes offer the complete gameplay experience.
Reserve Your Copy Today
Available July 17, 2025 - Nintendo Switch 2 Exclusive Adventure
Pre-Order Bonuses
- 🏆 Exclusive Golden DK Skin
- 🎮 Early Access to Bonus Challenges
- 🍌 Special Banana Coin Starter Pack
- 📖 Digital Art Gallery Access
- 💰 Price Lock Guarantee
Secure your copy of this epic platformer adventure and unlock exclusive content that won't be available after launch!
Reserve on Nintendo StoreDigital vs Physical
Choose between instant digital download or collectible physical cartridge. Both versions include the same pre-order bonuses and content.
Release Day Delivery
Physical pre-orders qualify for release day delivery in most regions. Digital versions unlock at midnight on July 17, 2025.
Cancellation Policy
Pre-orders can be cancelled anytime before release with full refund. No payment required until the game ships or becomes available.