Donkey Kong is back in action with a brand-new 3D platforming adventure, and this time he’s not going alone. Donkey Kong Bananza launches July 17, exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2, bringing new gameplay mechanics, transformations, and co-op chaos with the help of a surprising partner: Pauline.

So what can fans expect from this banana-fueled journey? Let’s break it down.

A Golden Discovery Sparks a New Journey

The adventure begins on Ingot Isle, where golden bananas—known as Banandium—have just been discovered. Before Donkey Kong can grab his first bite, a massive storm throws him deep into the planet. Down there, he meets Pauline, now transformed into “Odd Rock,” and the two team up to escape and uncover the truth about this underground world.

But what secrets lie below the surface, and who—or what—is pulling the strings?

Smash, Dig, and Transform

Donkey Kong brings a new arsenal of moves including:

  • Dive Punch: Drill into terrain and reveal hidden paths.
  • Hand Slap: Detect secrets buried below.
  • Turf Surfing: Ride across torn chunks of ground to reach new areas.
  • Combo Moves: Chain actions together for stronger attacks and faster traversal.

As they collect gold, Pauline’s singing powers activate DK’s special transformations—each with unique gameplay advantages:

  • Kong Bananza: Boosts strength to clear heavy obstacles.
  • Zebra Bananza: Grants speed and short dashes.
  • Ostrich Bananza: Lets DK fly and drop Egg Bombs from above.

A New Level of Co-Op Gameplay

Want to share the fun? Local co-op is built into Bananza. One player controls DK, the other controls Pauline, and each character has unique abilities. Co-op options include:

  • Shared Joy-Con 2 gameplay
  • GameShare for local multiplayer (even without a second copy)*
  • GameChat voice or video calls with online friends**

Do you prefer teamwork or solo exploration? Either way, the experience adapts to your playstyle.

Race to the Planet Core

The ultimate goal? Reach the Planet Core, rumored to grant any wish. For Donkey Kong, it means more bananas. For Pauline, a return to the surface. But they’re not alone—Void Company, a mining operation gone rogue, is also racing to the core and stopping at nothing to get there first. Will you get there before they do?

Collect, Customize, and Power Up

Throughout the underground world, players can find:

  • Banandium Gems: Used to unlock new abilities.
  • Banandium Chips & Gold: Trade at shops for gear and boosts.
  • Fossils: Exchange for costumes and fur color variants with gameplay perks.

From combat trials to side-scrolling challenges and obstacle courses, exploration is deeply rewarded.

Familiar Faces & Underground Surprises

Expect both new and returning characters:

  • Rambi charges back into action
  • Cranky Kong provides his usual wisdom
  • Void Kong leads the enemy ranks of VoidCo
  • Plus: Grumpy Kong, Poppy Kong, and more

Use Eelevators—giant underground eels—to quickly travel through layers. Need a breather? Rest up at Getaways, where you can choose music and relax to regain energy.

Creative Modes to Personalize the Experience

  • Photo Mode: Customize angles, filters, and banana effects
  • DK Artist: Use mouse controls to carve designs into stone and create banana-themed art
  • amiibo Support: Unlock Pauline’s Diva Dress and powerful KONG tiles early

Launching alongside the game are new Donkey Kong and Pauline amiibo figures. Other DK amiibo also provide helpful in-game materials.

What Are You Most Excited About?

Are you more curious about DK’s new powers or Pauline’s surprising role? Whether you’re in it for the challenge, the co-op, or the collectibles, Donkey Kong Bananza looks like a bold step forward for the franchise.

This is just the beginning. Stay tuned for more updates as launch day approaches!

Source: Nintendo News.

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