The highly anticipated 3D platformer Donkey Kong Bananza marks the exciting resurgence of one of Nintendo’s most iconic characters. With a focus on exploration and destructible environments, this new title introduces an updated character design for Donkey Kong. It will be exclusively available on the Nintendo Switch 2.
Nintendo’s recent announcement trailer not only teased engaging gameplay but also confirmed a release date of July 17. In Donkey Kong Bananza, players will venture into a sprawling underground world, employing classic Donkey Kong tactics such as smashing, punching, and kicking. As highlighted on the official game page, the game will retail for $70. For additional insights, check out the trailer below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mIddsPkdX9U
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mIddsPkdX9U
Insights Into Donkey Kong Bananza’s Gameplay
Leveraging the Switch 2 for an Enhanced Gaming Experience



The trailer reveals diverse new settings, each with unique climates, such as a verdant valley, a snowy tundra, and a mining region known as Ingot Isle. While traversing these destructible terrains, players will assist Donkey Kong in gathering sparkling ores and coins, breaking through shiny rocks and banana structures to obtain the coveted Golden Bananas.
However, Ingot Isle presents its challenges. A rogue group of new adversaries called VoidCo has pilfered Donkey Kong’s Golden Bananas, leading to tense encounters requiring players to engage in combat while navigating hidden underground realms.
Although Nintendo has discussed several cutting-edge features of the Switch 2 during the recent Direct presentation, specific details regarding how these innovations will enhance the gameplay experience in Donkey Kong Bananza remain under wraps.
Why Now Is the Perfect Time for a New Donkey Kong Game
Introducing Unique Features for a Timeless Classic

It has been nearly a decade since Nintendo last launched a Donkey Kong platformer, with Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze debuting in 2014 for the Wii U. Earlier this year, a remastered edition of Donkey Kong Country Returns, originally released for the Wii in 2010, received a warm reception. As Nintendo transitions into the era of Switch 2, revisiting classic franchises presents an excellent opportunity to evoke nostalgia and re-engage players.
The inclusion of destructible environments in Donkey Kong Bananza is a significant advancement for Nintendo, indicating the powerful capabilities of the Switch 2 to deliver expansive games without lag, a feat the original Switch struggled with. Boasting impressive graphics and engaging gameplay mechanics, Donkey Kong Bananza has the potential to rejuvenate this beloved series while showcasing the strengths of Nintendo’s latest system. However, the game’s success will ultimately hinge on how players respond to the advancements of the Switch 2.