Nintendo has officially announced “Donkey Kong Bananza,” a new 3D platforming action-adventure game set to launch exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2 on July 17, 2025.
Game Overview
In “Donkey Kong Bananza,” players will guide Donkey Kong through a vast underground world, utilizing his signature abilities—such as smashing, throwing, climbing, and digging—to overcome obstacles and adversaries. The game introduces destructible environments, allowing players to tear off chunks of terrain to swing around and throw, facilitating groundbreaking exploration.
Visual Design
The game features a redesigned Donkey Kong model, drawing inspiration from his appearance in “The Super Mario Bros. Movie.” This updated design aligns with his portrayal in other recent titles, including “Mario Kart World.”
Historical Context
“Donkey Kong Bananza” marks the first 3D Donkey Kong platformer since “Donkey Kong 64,” which was released over two decades ago. The game aims to blend classic Donkey Kong mechanics with modern gameplay elements, offering both longtime fans and new players an engaging experience.
Nintendo Switch 2 Launch Details
The Nintendo Switch 2 console is scheduled for release on June 5, 2025, with a starting price of $449.99. The console features a 7.9-inch, 1080p display supporting up to 120 frames per second and high dynamic range lighting. Redesigned Joy-Con 2 controllers connect magnetically and include a rollerball for precise movement, suitable for use as a mouse. The console supports up to 4K resolution when connected to a TV and offers improved built-in speakers with 3D audio.
Anticipation and Reception
The announcement of “Donkey Kong Bananza” has generated significant excitement within the gaming community. Fans are eager to experience Donkey Kong’s return to a 3D platform, exploring new environments and utilizing his classic abilities in innovative ways. The game’s release is expected to be a highlight of the Nintendo Switch 2’s early lineup.
For a visual preview of “Donkey Kong Bananza,” you can watch the official gameplay reveal trailer below:
