Donkey Kong returns in full force with the release of Donkey Kong Bananza for the Nintendo Switch 2. Originally teased earlier this year, the game officially launched on July 17, 2025, and has already been declared a must-own title for the system. With destructible environments, transformation abilities, and a modern twist on the classic DK formula, Bananza is both a tribute to its roots and a leap into new territory.
Gameplay and Transformations
One of the biggest highlights of Bananza is its innovative terrain system. The game features **voxel-based, fully destructible environments**. Players can smash, dig, surf debris, and alter terrain to reveal secrets like Banandium Gems and fossils. Donkey Kong’s core moves—Dive Punch, hand-slap, rolling, and terrain smashing—are more dynamic than ever.
A unique feature is the Bananza transformations, powered by a collectible energy known as Bananergy. There are three main forms:
Kong Bananza: Offers super-strength and can lift boulders.
Zebra Bananza: Grants high-speed movement and powerful dash attacks.
Ostrich Bananza: Enables short flight and precision bombing using eggs.
Transformations are triggered through Pauline’s vocal abilities and the player’s skill upgrades earned during exploration.
Characters and Storyline
The storyline introduces a younger, fully voiced Pauline, who sings to aid Donkey Kong throughout the adventure. Her vocals are not just narrative; they play a mechanical role in gameplay. DK’s classic allies like Cranky Kong, Rambi, Diddy, and Dixie return, each appearing in levels throughout the game’s underground world.
The main antagonists are from VoidCo, a mysterious mining company exploiting the Planet Core. Their leader Void Kong, and henchmen Grumpy Kong and Poppy Kong, challenge players at various stages. As the journey intensifies, King K. Rool makes a surprise return as the final boss.
Cooperative Gameplay
Donkey Kong Bananza also includes a GameShare multiplayer system. One player controls DK while another uses a second Joy-Con or system to control Pauline. Pauline can activate powerful vocal blasts that interact with the environment and assist DK in battle or puzzles. The two-player co-op mode has been praised for its creativity and depth.
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