Donkey Kong Bananza is presented as Nintendo's new big bet for its Switch 2 console, with a focus on 3D exploration, scenery destruction, and a story that reshapes the world of the famous gorilla. After several weeks of information trickling in and leaking, The company has revealed all the details in depth through its own Direct, showing that this delivery goes far beyond a simple traditional platform.
This time, the game starts with Donkey Kong on Ingot Island after the discovery of the golden bananas, a crucial discovery that is quickly cut short by a unexpected cataclysm that throws him into the mysterious underground levels of the planet. This is where the adventure takes a special turn: the companion who during the first trailers seemed to be a peculiar rock, is revealed to be Pauline, temporarily transformed into this being by the fault of the new antagonist organization, Void Corp.
Pauline: From Damsel to Fellow Protagonist
Pauline, whose role in the saga has always been linked to the original classic arcade game, takes on a fundamental role in Bananza's gameplay and narrativeHis transformation into Odd Rock was actually a ruse maintained even in the initial promotional art, and his return expands questions about the connection between the characters and their chronology in the franchise.
In addition to accompanying DK, Pauline uses her vocal talents to solve puzzles and unlock new skills, and can even be controlled by a second player in co-op mode, performing sound attacks and supporting the protagonist during exploration.
Innovations in skills and destructible terrain
One of the pillars of this delivery is the Donkey Kong's ability to alter the environment: can smash almost anything in its path, tearing off chunks of terrain and using them both to attack and to create makeshift platforms with mechanics like Turf Surfing. Its new abilities include excavating blow, the fast rolling and the sonar clap to discover secrets and hidden objects.
Also noteworthy are the transformations called "Bananza", activated by Pauline's singing and the accumulation of "Bananergy". These include Turn into a giant gorilla to increase his strength, a zebra that allows him to run on water, and an ostrich that allows him to fly and unleash aerial attacks.Strategic use of each form will be essential for both combat and solving environmental obstacles and puzzles.
Exploration, collectibles, and family company
The journey will take Donkey Kong and Pauline through different underground biomes, each with unique settings such as lava levels, ice or tropical zonesThe objective is to reach the planet's core before the VoidCo corporation, responsible for the chaos, and in the process get the Banandium Gems, the golden bananas that allow you to improve skills and unlock upgrades.
Throughout the adventure, familiar characters appearas the Cranky Kong and Rambi, along with the leaders of VoidCo (Grumpy Kong, Poppy Kong and Void Kong), as well as giant elders who will provide new skills for the protagonist duo.
The collection of objects has a key role, existing Tokens and gold nuggets that can be exchanged for upgrades and outfits for both protagonists, including the ability to customize DK's fur color and Pauline's outfit. Treasures, fossils, and maps are also included. expand replayability and exploration.
Game modes, cooperative and extras
The title enhances cooperative play: The second player controls Pauline through the controls with Joy-Con 2 mouse function, using his vocal abilities to interact with the environment and support in combat. This mode can be Enjoy both locally and online via GameShare (even if only one player owns the game), and there's support for shared access via Switch 1. For those looking for a little extra help, there's an "Assist Mode" that guides and reduces damage taken.
Bananza also offers new modes like "DK Artist", that Use mouse control to sculpt and decorate figures Inspired by characters from the Nintendo universe. Photo mode and music playback allow you to capture gameplay moments and enjoy classic and new unlockable tunes as you progress.
Finally, integration with Amiibo adds extra rewards: a dual Donkey Kong and Pauline figure will be released on launch day, unlocking an exclusive outfit for Pauline and special powers, while other Amiibo grant useful materials and items.
El Donkey Kong Bananza release is set for July 17, 2025 exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2, promising to reimagine the series with original mechanics, a variety of modes, and a more creative approach than ever. The offering combines nostalgia, new features, and multiplayer options for all audiences.
