After more than a decade in the shadows, Donkey Kong is back in a big way. Donkey Kong Bananza, the first original DK title since 2014’s Tropical Freeze, is launching exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2 on July 17, 2025. And judging by early previews and fan reactions, this isn’t just another side-scroller—it’s a full-blown 3D platforming adventure that reimagines what a Donkey Kong game can be.
This game will be arriving a little over a month after the Switch 2 officially launches on June 5, 2025.
A Long-Awaited Return to 3D
One of the most exciting aspects of Bananza is that it marks Donkey Kong’s return to 3D gameplay for the first time since Donkey Kong 64. Nintendo and Retro Studios are doubling down on expansive level design, destructible environments, and dynamic traversal mechanics. Players will explore vast underground caverns, lush jungles, and ancient ruins—all rendered in stunning detail thanks to the power of the Switch 2’s upgraded hardware.
Reports suggest that the game features real-time terrain destruction, allowing DK to punch through cliffs, bash through walls, and uncover hidden areas in a way that feels more immersive than anything we’ve seen in past entries.
What’s New in Donkey Kong Bananza
This isn’t just a nostalgic throwback. Bananza introduces a handful of fresh mechanics and elements designed to deepen the gameplay:
- Golden Banana Hunt: VoidCo, a mysterious high-tech villain faction, has stolen the Golden Bananas. DK’s mission is to recover them through exploration, puzzles, and boss battles.
- Environmental Destruction: DK’s strength isn’t just for enemies. You’ll actively reshape the environment to find paths and secrets.
- New Sidekicks & Playable Characters: While Nintendo hasn’t confirmed the full roster, the trailer hints at familiar faces like Diddy and Dixie, and possibly some new ones.
- Banana Tech Gadgets: Retro is reportedly adding gadgets crafted from jungle materials—think grappling vines, banana-powered cannons, and coconut-based sonar.
Built for the Switch 2
Donkey Kong Bananza is one of the key launch-window titles that showcases the horsepower of the Switch 2. Early footage highlights buttery-smooth frame rates, significantly higher texture detail, and advanced lighting effects—especially during sunset jungle levels and underground cave sequences. The game supports full 4K output when docked, along with haptic feedback through the new Joy-Con controllers to make each vine swing and ground pound feel more visceral.
With Bananza, Nintendo is clearly aiming to give Switch 2 early adopters a must-play exclusive alongside other launch-window hits like Mario Kart X and Metroid Prime 4: Eclipse.
Why It Matters
Let’s be real—Donkey Kong is one of Nintendo’s most iconic mascots, yet the franchise has seen fewer entries compared to Mario or Zelda in recent years. Bananza is more than just another platformer; it’s a statement. Nintendo is bringing its B-tier mascots back to A-tier relevance with modern tech, thoughtful design, and a celebration of its legacy.
Release Date and Price
- Release Date: July 17, 2025
- Platform: Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive
- Price: $69.99 USD
Pre-orders are expected to go live by the end of May, with physical and digital editions both available. Nintendo is also rumored to be launching a limited-edition Donkey Kong-themed Switch 2 console bundle to celebrate the release.
Donkey Kong Bananza looks like the revitalization the franchise has been waiting for—a bold, banana-fueled return to form that could finally put DK back in the spotlight alongside Nintendo’s biggest stars.
Key Takeaways
- Donkey Kong Bananza drops July 17, 2025 for Nintendo Switch 2.
- Expect new worlds, features, and some wild challenges.
- Donkey Kong is back in his first main adventure in what feels like forever.
Release Date and Launch Details
Donkey Kong Bananza is landing smack in the middle of summer, which is always a busy time for Nintendo. There’s talk of new gameplay reveals, launch day events, and—no surprise—pre-orders for both digital and physical versions on the Nintendo Switch 2.
Official Announcement
Nintendo pulled the curtain back on Donkey Kong Bananza during a Nintendo Direct on April 2, 2025. That’s when we got the July 17 release date, making this the first big Donkey Kong title since Tropical Freeze.
The reveal included a sneak peek at the game and hammered home that it’s exclusive to the new Nintendo Switch 2. Fans kind of lost their minds on social media. Nintendo picking a Direct for this news shows just how much they’re banking on Bananza this year.
You can poke around for more info on the Donkey Kong Bananza Wikipedia page.
Launch Window Highlights
Donkey Kong Bananza comes out July 17, not long after the Switch 2 itself launches on June 6. That puts it right in the “launch window,” so early adopters get a big first-party game almost immediately.
This time is super important for a new console, and Nintendo knows it—so they’re leading with familiar faces. July’s looking pretty open for platformers, so Bananza should have the spotlight to itself. Both digital and boxed versions will hit stores and the eShop on day one, so you can grab it however you like.
For more on timing and availability, here’s a GamesRadar overview.
Livestream and Trailer Events
Nintendo ran a special livestream to go along with the announcement, showing off the first real trailer and some of the new gameplay bits for Donkey Kong Bananza. The stream had live gameplay, dev commentary, and a peek at the updated visuals.
Fans tuned in on YouTube, Twitch, you name it—and could even ask questions live. That stream definitely cranked up the hype and gave us some footage that didn’t make the main trailer.
Nintendo’s not done, either; they’re expected to keep rolling out videos and interviews as we get closer to July. If you missed it, you can watch replays and highlights on Nintendo’s official channels.
Pre-Order Information
Pre-orders for Donkey Kong Bananza started pretty much right after the April announcement. You can lock in a copy digitally on the eShop, or snag a physical edition at retail and on Nintendo’s online store.
No word yet on pre-order bonuses, but Nintendo usually throws in stuff like themed cases or digital goodies for big releases. Both digital and boxed versions are up for grabs for Switch 2.
For the nitty-gritty on pre-orders, check the Nintendo Donkey Kong Bananza page.
Gameplay and Key Features
Donkey Kong Bananza is going all-in on a new 3D open-world platforming style built for Switch 2. Think dynamic action, a world you can actually mess with, and some wild new combat moves—plus all the mayhem you’d expect.
3D Platforming Action
Bananza is a real 3D platformer, so you’ll be guiding Donkey Kong through big, open stages. You’ll run, jump, climb, and swing through jungles, caves, and treetop mazes.
Collectibles are everywhere—coins, bananas, odd trinkets—often tucked into tough-to-reach corners. The controls are snappy, so you can zip around or nail those tricky jumps.
Obstacles? Oh yeah. Swinging vines, moving platforms, spinning hazards. The level design really pushes you to get creative; there’s more than one way to tackle most challenges. And if you’re nosy enough, you’ll find secret rooms and bonus paths all over.
Groundbreaking Exploration
Exploration is a big deal here. The world’s full 3D and mostly seamless, so you can wander without hitting loading screens every five minutes. Nintendo really wants you to poke around everywhere.
Walls might crumble under a punch, or the ground might split to reveal a tunnel. There are alternate routes and hidden shortcuts if you’re clever or just stubborn. You can go fast, or take your time and explore.
Expect a bunch of different biomes—dense jungles, cliffside ruins, weird caves. There’s a checklist and an interactive map to help track what you’ve found (and what you’ve missed). The world feels busy, and there’s always something new around the corner.
Combat and Powerful Punches
Combat’s gotten a serious upgrade. Donkey Kong can throw down with punches, ground pounds, and some new combos.
Combo Attacks
- Quick punches for basic brawling
- Charged punches to smash through shields
- Spinning moves to clear out groups
You can also use the environment—grab barrels, toss stuff, whatever works. Power-ups give you temporary boosts, so sometimes you’ll just bulldoze through enemies.
You’ll need to mix it up, especially against bosses or trickier enemies. Each type has its own quirks, so it’s not just button-mashing all the way.
Destructible Environments
Bananza really leans into breaking stuff. You can smash crates, bash walls, even crack the ground to find goodies. It’s not just for collecting—sometimes you open a shortcut or stumble into a hidden area. For a deeper dive, here’s Digital Trends’ gameplay overview.
You never really know what’s going to pop out when you go full wrecking ball, so it pays to experiment. The levels are built to reward people who try weird things and push the limits of Donkey Kong’s moves.
Worlds and Environments
You’ll get to check out all sorts of places in Bananza—each one with its own vibe, challenges, and a few curveballs if you’re paying attention.
Underground World and Mines
The underground areas in Donkey Kong Bananza are a maze of mine shafts and twisty tunnels. You’ll be dodging rocks, hopping into minecarts, and dealing with collapsing bridges. It’s tense, fast, and sometimes a little nerve-wracking.
Some spots are puzzle-heavy—think switches, secret doors, or elevators. Tunneling critters make things interesting (or just plain dangerous). Power-ups and collectibles are tucked into nooks and crannies, with glowing crystals and funky fungi helping you spot the way.
Go deeper and you’ll find branching paths. Sometimes you can take a shortcut, or you might want to poke around for extra loot. Mine tracks cross waterfalls and deep pits, so there’s a real sense of scale—and danger.
Forest and Overworld Areas
Above ground, it’s all about lush forests and towering jungles. Vines let you swing around, and there are rivers, mossy ruins, and giant leaves to bounce on.
You’ll see wildlife everywhere—birds, monkeys, the works. Some levels have weather effects like rain or fog, which can mess with your visibility and keep you on your toes.
Checkpoints are often tucked away, so it pays to explore. The overworld is packed with secret routes, bonus challenges, and collectibles for anyone who’s willing to hunt them down. It’s a mix of classic platforming and scavenger hunt.
Surprises and Odd Rock Discoveries
Exploring pays off in Bananza. Odd rocks are scattered all over—some look totally out of place. Try interacting with them: maybe you’ll find a secret passage, trigger a mini-game, or unlock a banana stash.
Some rocks need a ground pound, others want you to throw something at them. Sometimes they even come to life (not kidding) and help you out or toss a puzzle your way. Not every rock’s the same, so you’ve got to keep your eyes peeled.
The game keeps you guessing—random enemy ambushes, collapsing paths, animated backgrounds. Some secrets only show up after a string of clues. If you’re the curious type, there’s a lot to dig into. For more, check out the Donkey Kong Bananza for Nintendo Switch 2 page for a closer look at the world.
Characters, Collectibles, and Legacy
Donkey Kong Bananza brings a new adventure for the Kong family—packed with lively worlds, classic platforming, and a bunch of Easter eggs for longtime fans. There are nods to Mario Kart and, of course, those all-important golden bananas. If you loved Donkey Kong 64, you’ll spot some clear connections.
Donkey Kong and Kong Family
Donkey Kong’s front and center, with all his trademark strength and style. He’s not alone—Diddy, Dixie, and Cranky Kong are all along for the ride. Each one’s got their own tricks that help you get around and solve puzzles.
Diddy uses his jetpack to reach high spots, Dixie can spin with her ponytail to cross big gaps, and Cranky bounces on his cane to get to weird places. You can swap between them at certain times, which keeps things interesting.
The Kongs have always been a team, and that’s still true here. Their unique skills help you get past tough spots, take down bosses, and scoop up hidden goodies.
Mario and Mario Kart World Connections
Bananza can’t resist a good Mario reference. Some levels are clearly inspired by Mario Kart tracks—bright colors, familiar obstacles, and even a few Mario enemies sneaking in. Donkey Kong’s been a Mario Kart regular for years, so it’s a fun crossover.
You might spot hazards or layouts that feel straight out of Mario games. There are even collaborative power-ups and maybe a guest appearance or two. It’s a neat way to tie everything together for longtime Nintendo fans.
Collecting Golden Bananas
Golden bananas are the big collectible here. Each world has a bunch hidden away—behind tough jumps, in secret rooms, or as rewards for side quests. You’ll need a certain number to unlock new levels.
There’s a tracker in-game so you can see what you’ve found. Some bananas need specific Kongs’ skills, others are locked behind puzzles or timed challenges.
Collectibles give you a reason to come back, since you might need new moves to grab everything. Golden bananas also unlock bonus stages and hint at even deeper secrets if you’re aiming for 100% completion.
Comparisons to Donkey Kong 64
If you played Donkey Kong 64, you’ll spot some familiar ground in Bananza: a big 3D world, multiple Kongs, and the classic golden banana hunt. But Bananza updates things with sharper graphics and smoother controls—platforming just feels better.
Some old-school locations make a comeback (with a facelift), but there’s less of that overwhelming “collect-a-thon” vibe. Instead, the focus is on quality collectibles and upgrades that actually matter. The balance between exploring and finishing things feels more modern and way less tedious.
Look, some nostalgia hounds might miss the old complexity, but Bananza seems built for a wider crowd. It tips its hat to the Donkey Kong 64 legacy but keeps things friendlier for newcomers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Donkey Kong Bananza is bringing new gameplay ideas to the series, landing on Nintendo Switch 2 in July 2025. People are already asking about pre-orders, which platforms it’s on, and whether there’ll be any special editions.
What are the new features in the upcoming Donkey Kong game release?
Bananza is a 3D adventure, which is big news for DK fans. Expect new levels, new places to explore, and a fresh story with Donkey Kong and pals. Graphics and gameplay are built for Switch 2, so it should look and feel better than ever.
Can you pre-order the Donkey Kong Bananza game and if so, what are the benefits?
Yep, pre-orders are live at official retailers and on the Nintendo eShop. Nintendo hasn’t spilled the beans on specific bonuses yet, but there’s usually some kind of exclusive content or swag. Keep an eye on the official Donkey Kong Bananza page for updates.
Will there be any special editions or collector’s items for the Donkey Kong Bananza title?
Nothing’s been announced yet—just the standard digital and physical versions for now. But Nintendo does love a good collector’s edition, so who knows? Watch for news as the release date gets closer.
Is the Donkey Kong Bananza game compatible with all current gaming platforms?
Nope, Bananza is built just for the Nintendo Switch 2. There’s no word on a version for the original Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, or PC.
Have any gameplay trailers or demos been released for the Donkey Kong Bananza game?
A teaser trailer is supposedly on the way, but so far, there’s no public gameplay footage or demo. Outlets like Nintendo Life are keeping tabs for updates.
What are the system requirements for Donkey Kong Bananza on PC?
There aren’t any—no PC version is planned. Bananza is a Switch 2 exclusive, so if you’re on PC, you’re out of luck (for now, anyway).
