Nintendo has officially announced the release of Donkey Kong Bananza, a new 3D platformer featuring the iconic ape, Donkey Kong. Set to launch on the Nintendo Switch 2 on July 17th, the game arrives a little over a month after the debut of the next-generation console, which is scheduled for release on June 5th, 2025. While details about the game remain scarce, the trailer presented during today’s Nintendo Direct provided a glimpse into what players can expect.
From the trailer, it’s clear that Donkey Kong Bananza will offer a colorful and dynamic experience. The character design of Donkey Kong has been updated, reflecting influences from The Super Mario Bros. Movie, with a fresh look that aligns with the lively style seen in Nintendo’s more recent projects. The game’s visuals seem to draw inspiration from Super Mario Odyssey, known for its vibrant and expansive worlds, suggesting that Donkey Kong Bananza will feature a similar sense of adventure and exploration.
This release adds to a growing trend for Donkey Kong fans in 2025. Earlier this year, Donkey Kong Country Returns was re-released for the Nintendo Switch with enhanced visuals, offering a fresh look at the classic game. The updated version of Donkey Kong Country Returns HD retains its core gameplay, delivering the same challenging platforming action that made it popular on the Wii, albeit with some modern touches to improve the visual experience. While the re-release is a solid option for new players or those revisiting the title, it doesn’t introduce significant new features, meaning it may not offer enough for fans looking for a more substantial update.
With the announcement of Donkey Kong Bananza and the ongoing re-release of past games in the franchise, it seems that 2025 could be a major year for Donkey Kong. The new game promises to bring something fresh to the series, with a focus on 3D platforming and exploration, all while taking advantage of the Nintendo Switch 2’s hardware capabilities.
As we approach the release date, more details are expected to emerge, and fans are eager to see how Donkey Kong Bananza will build on the legacy of the beloved character. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, the upcoming release is one to watch as it aims to offer an exciting adventure for players on the next-generation Nintendo console.
