Donkey Kong Bananza: A Promising Return for DK
Anticipation is building for Donkey Kong Bananza, heralded as Nintendo’s flagship title for 2025 and developed by the talented team behind Super Mario Odyssey. After a lengthy hiatus from 3D platforming, Donkey Kong’s comeback is carrying the weight of expectations, especially following the success of Mario Kart World which made the Nintendo Switch 2 a record-breaking console.
After four hours of gameplay last week, it became clear that while Bananza brings fresh elements to the series, it also requires a certain adjustment period. Initially, I struggled with camera control in tight tunnels and the unconventional button layout for actions like jumping and punching, which differs from typical Nintendo gameplay. This complexity grows with DK’s diverse move set, including not just punches, but also dynamic actions like rolling and environment manipulation.
My preview included various levels, from a tutorial set in a monkey mining colony to later toxin-infused stages reminiscent of Super Mario Odyssey’s landscapes. Each level showcases unique mechanics, such as creating instant bridges with seeds in the poison swamp, enhancing exploration and interaction with the environment.
Gameplay in Bananza encourages a balance between progression and discovery, much like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. Player interactions with the environment are complex; different materials react distinctly, adding layers to puzzle-solving and combat. Levels are well-designed, featuring entertaining challenges that often require defeating enemies or completing time-based tasks to unlock new areas. Collectibles, particularly Banandium gems, unlock skill points and customizable outfits, offering strategic benefits that enhance gameplay.
I experienced two unique power-ups during my play: the Kong and Ostrich Bananzas. DK transforms into a gorilla capable of breaking metal or an ostrich that can fly and drop bombs, respectively. These transformations are not only entertaining but also integral to solving puzzles, adding a fresh dynamic. Cooperative gameplay allows a secondary player to control Pauline, turning the game into a cooperative experience that feels unique yet simplistic for competitive gaming.
While the gameplay was engaging, I noted issues with frame rates, which could detract from the overall experience. Visual fidelity appeared lower than expected; textures sometimes looked muddy, and characters lacked the crisp detail seen in other leading Nintendo titles. However, it’s essential to consider that this was not the final version of the game.
In summary, Donkey Kong Bananza promises an engaging return for the iconic character and supports both solo and cooperative play. Despite some visual and performance concerns, the foundations of a thrilling adventure are apparent, setting the stage for its anticipated release on 17 July for the Nintendo Switch 2.