Nintendo has confirmed the release of “Donkey Kong Bananza”. Not only will this thrilling new 3D exploration-styled adventure platforming game include our favorite guest – Oh Yeah, LEGENDARY Character Donkey Kong! Look forward to launching on July 17, 2025! This installment will be released as a Switch 2 exclusive and is poised to rekindle fans’ affections with exciting new gameplay and captivating mechanics.
In “Donkey Kong Bananza” players will lead Donkey Kong through the colorful and hazardous jungle chock full of treacherous traps and menacing foes. The game introduces a unique feature that allows Donkey Kong to punch and destroy nearly every square inch of the levels, creating a dynamic environment where players can interact with their surroundings like never before. The Switch 2’s robust hardware only deepens this level of engagement. What it does is make real-time destruction possible for the entire game.
Each stage in “Donkey Kong Bananza” only acts uniquely based on what it’s made out of. That requires players to adjust their approach as they move through different environments. Donkey Kong now has multi-directional punching—up, down, forward. On his journey, he is confronted by different foes that hinder his path. As he sails from land to land to face these challenges, his chief goal is to harvest a new element called Banandium.
Banadium is presented as the most precious mineral scattered across the game’s elaborate, open-world map. This collectible acts essentially as a substitute to the stars from previous Mario games. It invites players to adventure, to seek out its uncharted shores. Having Banandium increase the stakes and encourages players to explore every nook and cranny to see what lies beneath their feet.
Fans of the classic Donkey Kong Country (DKC) series will appreciate that “Donkey Kong Bananza” features levels and bonus areas reminiscent of those old-school games. These throwback levels bring back old school tropes such as barrel cannons. For series veterans, it’s standard comfort-food fare in an inviting all-new package.
Odd Rock, a new NPC introduced in “Donkey Kong Bananza,” is present to guide players on their journey. As the newest addition to the crew, he’ll help Donkey Kong discover his next mission! Odd Rock’s direction keeps players on the edge of their seats and on task as they navigate through the game’s complex level design.
Thanks to the unique design of the game, Donkey Kong is able to use previously immovable objects as makeshift hammers to increase his destructive capabilities. This mechanic severely cranks up the level of gameplay awesomeness. It’s a sign of the Switch 2’s technological capabilities, allowing for more robust graphics and living, breathing environments.
As challengers embark on “Donkey Kong Bananza,” the creative designs of each level will slowly be revealed. These design and material dynamics heavily inform the gameplay experience they create. We hope this new approach to level design will test the skills of the player while delivering the rush that was so prevalent in the classic platformers of yore.
Nintendo’s commitment to delivering an engaging experience shines through in “Donkey Kong Bananza.” Real-time destruction adds a lively, chaotic flair to combat that feels risky and exhilarating. The mechanics are noticeably different, along with new characters! The franchise makes big strides in this one! It further cements the studio’s commitment to innovation, all while paying tribute to the roots of one of its most beloved characters.