Nintendo has announced an exclusive game for the Switch 2, titled Donkey Kong Bananza, set to launch this summer. This marks a departure from traditional platforming, featuring a vibrant 3D universe reminiscent of Donkey Kong 64. Initial visuals reveal a character resembling Pauline, hinting at exciting twists in the story. The game will also include familiar elements from the franchise, such as Cranky Kong and references to New Donk City. Pre-orders are now available for €59.90.
Nintendo’s Exciting Announcement of Donkey Kong Bananza
Last week, Nintendo thrilled fans with the announcement of an exclusive game for the Switch 2, titled Donkey Kong Bananza, set to launch this summer. This news has sent waves of excitement throughout the gaming community. The beloved gorilla first introduced in 1981 has not had a new installment since Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze, released on Wii U in 2013 and later re-released on Switch alongside its predecessor, Returns HD. What’s particularly noteworthy about this upcoming title is that it marks a departure from the traditional platforming style, venturing into a vibrant 3D universe reminiscent of Donkey Kong 64. Along with this shift, players can expect a fresh redesign of the iconic character, signaling a bold new direction for the franchise.
Intriguing Character and Visuals Revealed
Among the initial visuals shared, we caught a glimpse of a cover illustration featuring DK alongside Odd Rock, a quirky talking stone introduced during the Treehouse Live segments. However, an intriguing visual that surfaced online from the Korean Nintendo site has sparked discussions. Instead of Odd Rock, the illustration depicts a young girl with striking similarities to Pauline, who is shown playfully clinging to DK’s tie. With her brown hair, blue eyes, and a red dress, she bears a notable resemblance to the original mayor of New Donk City, complete with freckles. Pauline first appeared in the franchise’s debut game and has recently regained prominence thanks to her role in Super Mario Odyssey, especially with the catchy tune Jump Up, Super Star!.
Interestingly, the girl is seen wearing a purple bracelet on her left wrist, leading to speculation that this might indeed be the true form of Odd Rock. Is this a significant spoiler? Likely not, as the existence of such an illustration suggests it will be unveiled in a trailer or overview video prior to the game’s release. Nintendo has a history of updating game covers before launch, a pattern seen with Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze, which also experienced leaks leading up to its release. This playful coincidence adds to the anticipation surrounding the game.
As for the timeline, the presence of a young Pauline raises questions, especially with Cranky Kong also featured in the game. The first trailer for Donkey Kong Bananza hints at additional creatures represented as crystals and rocks with eyes, while Odd Rock’s seal seems to connect to VoidCo, indicated by the gremlin leader’s stamp. If this character turns out to be Pauline’s daughter, it could signify a thoughtful nod to the franchise’s legacy, a clear message from Nintendo about moving forward. Notably, the city of New Donk City appears to exist in the game’s timeline, as seen on crates displaying the initials NDC. Additionally, fans have pointed out a charming reference to the movie Wreck-It Ralph with Vanellope, enhancing the nostalgic experience.
As we eagerly await the launch of Donkey Kong Bananza on July 17, players can revisit many titles from the franchise through Nintendo Switch Online. Pre-orders are currently available at Cdiscount and Amazon for the price of €59.90.
Read more about it in our preview: Donkey Kong Bananza: A Future Gem for the Switch 2?