Rather than launch with a new 3D Mario title as widely anticipated, Nintendo decided to craft the first 3D Donkey Kong adventure since Donkey Kong 64, marking the franchise's first all-new entry since 2014. Donkey Kong Bananza stars the beloved Kong himself, alongside a younger version of Pauline, who made her modern comeback in 2017's Super Mario Odyssey. Together, they embark on a mission to smash their way to the planet's core, where legend says any wish can be granted.
Donkey Kong Bananza Is Out Now!
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Donkey Kong Bananza - Nintendo Switch 2
Explore a vast subterranean world—by smashing through it! Harness Donkey Kong's raw power to demolish almost anything in your path. An exclusive title for the Nintendo Switch 2. Release Date: July 17, 2025. $69.99 at Best Buy.
As you search for the hundreds of Banandium Gems hidden within each layer of the world, you'll need to reshape the terrain using Donkey Kong's unique abilities. Donkey Kong Bananza completely reimagines the series' formula, empowering the iconic Kong to smash, break, and crash through any environment. Choose to obliterate an entire wall, rip off a chunk and hurl it, or even ride a sliding slab of rock.
Of course, Bananza's ambitious scope was only possible thanks to the power of the Nintendo Switch 2. Development originally began on the Nintendo Switch, but the team soon realized the original hardware's limitations would prevent the game from achieving its full vision. This title stands as the strongest showcase of the Switch 2's capabilities so far, particularly through its extensive use of Voxel technology.
Donkey Kong Bananza is available now for Nintendo Switch 2, with the complete game included on the cartridge. If you haven't picked up your copy yet, now is the perfect time to get it at Best Buy.
What We Said in Our Review
In our 10/10 review, Logan Plant wrote: "The leader of the bunch finally returns to kick some tail in Donkey Kong Bananza, a brilliant successor to Super Mario Odyssey and a spectacular comeback for a classic Nintendo hero. Choosing Donkey Kong over Mario for the Switch 2's flagship 3D platformer was a bold move, but it has proven to be Nintendo's best possible decision. DK's deeply satisfying, expressive movement and his powerful, dynamic abilities combine to create a groundbreaking adventure. The ambitious, destructible layers of this underground world are densely packed with rewarding collectibles, irresistible charm, and clever challenges that never run out of smart ideas, even well beyond the credits. Bananza builds to a constant crescendo throughout its 20-hour campaign and beyond, with puzzle-platforming concepts that grow richer as DK and Pauline venture deeper toward the Planet Core. Every element harmonizes perfectly to create Nintendo's first Switch 2 masterpiece."
