Get ready to go bananas with Nintendo’s highly anticipated new 3D platformer, Donkey Kong Bananza. Officially launching today, exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2, players can dive into a wild new action-adventure alongside Donkey Kong and a surprising new ally, Pauline.
The adventure kicks off on Ingot Isle, where the discovery of golden bananas in its deep caverns promises a glittering feast for DK. However, a sudden tempest sends our primate hero plummeting deep underground. There, he encounters what he believes to be an “Odd Rock,” which soon reveals itself to be Pauline, a talented young singer. Together, they embark on a grand quest through a sprawling Underground World, setting their sights on the legendary Planet Core, whispered to hold the power to grant one’s deepest desires.
But their journey won’t be easy. The nefarious Void Company, a vast mining operation with tendrils reaching every layer of the planet, also seeks the Planet Core. Not only is VoidCo responsible for the very storm that sent DK tumbling, but they are also behind Pauline’s mysterious transformation into “Odd Rock.”
Players will control Donkey Kong, utilising his signature punches, grabs, tosses, climbs, and smashing abilities to overcome obstacles and enemies, and even unearth hidden discoveries. These powerful moves can be combined for maximum mayhem. Pauline, with her unique vocal talents, can further enhance DK’s destructive power, temporarily transforming him into new animal forms through her singing.
Collecting “Bananergy” (built by gathering gold) fuels these transformations, including:
- Kong Bananza: Makes Donkey Kong super strong.
- Zebra Bananza: Increases his speed and allows for short dashes.
- Ostrich Bananza: Grants DK the ability to fly and drop “Egg Bombs” on foes.
Explorers will also be on the lookout for “Banandium Gems,” golden bananas hidden throughout the environment. Collecting these gems awards Skill Points, allowing players to increase DK’s power and unlock new skills. Beyond that, a treasure trove of other collectibles awaits, including Fossils. These can be exchanged at Style Shops for fashionable outfits for both Donkey Kong and Pauline, as well as new fur colours for DK, with most fashions offering useful extra benefits.
Donkey Kong Bananza offers flexible gameplay options, supporting both solo adventures and co-op play with a friend. The Joy-Con 2 controller’s mouse functionality can be used to unleash Pauline’s vocal blasts. Nintendo is also introducing GameShare, which allows players to share games and enjoy local co-op with another player, even if they don’t own the game themselves. This sharing extends to both Nintendo Switch 2 and the original Nintendo Switch consoles. For those wanting to team up with friends further afield, GameChat allows online invitations for play sessions via voice or video chat.
For collectors and fans, a new Donkey Kong and Pauline amiibo figure is available now. This figure unlocks Pauline’s in-game Diva Dress early and provides players with “KONG tiles” that possess explosive power.
Get ready to smash, sing, and explore your way to the Planet Core in Donkey Kong Bananza, available now!
