The recent Nintendo Switch 2 showcase introduced a plethora of exciting titles, among which Donkey Kong Bananza stood out as a noteworthy spiritual successor to Mario Odyssey. For many fans, the absence of a new 3D Mario game to herald the launch of the Switch 2 was surprising. However, it seems that Donkey Kong Bananza is poised not only to fill this gap but also to explore entirely new narratives surrounding some of Nintendo’s most beloved characters.
Fans were pleasantly surprised by the game’s distinct gameplay mechanics and vibrant art direction. Interestingly, the first reveal trailer for the Switch 2 hinted at the possibility of this new title featuring a solo adventure. Despite facing some backlash over a redesign of Donkey Kong—prompting an explanation from a former artist at Rare—the revamped character design sparked anticipation that a new game could emerge. This redesign emphasizes Donkey Kong’s playful and friendly demeanor, making it an ideal fit for his latest escapades, particularly with the introduction of his first companion.
A Young Pauline in Donkey Kong Bananza?
A Surprising Twist May Have Been Revealed
According to an observation by Genki_JPN on X, an overseas Nintendo site may have unintentionally unveiled crucial art that features a significantly younger version of Pauline. This revelation hints at a possible exploration of Pauline and Donkey Kong’s origin story, which dates back to their initial encounter in the original Donkey Kong (1981).
Historically, the lore of Donkey Kong has seen various iterations, but Donkey Kong Bananza has the potential to redefine both Donkey Kong’s and Pauline’s narratives. The art appears to depict young Pauline in a playful pose with Donkey Kong, similar to his purple rock companion, suggesting she might be a reimagined version of herself tailored to the vibrant world of the game.
Young Pauline spotted in Donkey Kong Bananza key art on the Korean official Nintendo site pic.twitter.com/zqzFIo1Nlc — Genkiœ (@Genki_JPN) April 5, 2025
The key art showcases Pauline joyfully holding onto Donkey Kong, mirroring the way his rock companion interacts with him. This could imply not only a significant role for Pauline within the game but also serve as an homage to her historical significance in the Mario franchise. While we wait for the official story, anticipation builds around the possibility of a fresh narrative thread intertwining her character with the broader Mario timeline.
Pauline’s Prominence in Super Mario Odyssey
Becoming a Key Character
Like Princess Peach, Pauline has evolved significantly from her roots as a damsel in distress. In Mario Odyssey, we see her flourishing as the mayor of New Donk City and a celebrated musician, which marks a substantial character development. Despite her traumatic past, Pauline’s current status underscores her resilience and transformation over the years.
While she may not be the most iconic figure in Nintendo’s pantheon, her role in Mario Odyssey showcased her depth and significance, bridging her past experiences with her present achievements. This evolution not only highlights her growth but also serves to celebrate the rich history of Nintendo’s character development.
Transforming the Donkey Kong Narrative
Clarifying a Unique Relationship
The relationship between Donkey Kong and Pauline has undergone significant shifts, transitioning from perilous encounters to a relationship characterized by friendship and camaraderie. Initially depicted as Pauline’s captor, this dynamic was later retconned to clarify that Cranky Kong was the true antagonist. This evolution allows for a narrative exploration of their friendship, providing an opportunity to delve deeper into their origins.
Should Donkey Kong Bananza serve as a loose prequel to Mario Odyssey, it holds the potential to develop Pauline’s motivations and character complexity. Aligning with Donkey Kong’s portrayal as her former pet, this game could illuminate her aspirations, offering fans a comprehensive understanding of her role within the Nintendo universe.
While some may be disappointed by the lack of new Mario content following the Switch 2 Direct, the anticipation for Donkey Kong Bananza is palpable. With promises of fresh gameplay and a nostalgic foundation, this title aims to resonate with both veterans and newcomers alike. Notably, the user interface and gameplay elements reflect similarities to Mario Odyssey, reinforcing its connection to beloved aspects of the franchise.
As we eagerly await the release of Donkey Kong Bananza, it’s clear that Nintendo continues to enhance the relationships and narrative arcs within its expansive universe. The current trailers present a wealth of excitement, showcasing innovative gameplay and rich storytelling that fans are sure to appreciate.
Source: Genki_JPN/X, Mario Wiki, Mario Fandom Wiki