Instead of debuting a new 3D Mario title as anticipated, Nintendo chose to develop the inaugural 3D Donkey Kong adventure since Donkey Kong 64, signaling the franchise's first fresh entry since 2014. Donkey Kong Bananza returns with its beloved hero, alongside a youthful Pauline who made her comeback in Super Mario Odyssey (2017). United, they set out to smash their path to the planet's core, where wishes are said to come true.
Donkey Kong Bananza Is Out Now!
PRESENTED BY:
Donkey Kong Bananza - Nintendo Switch 2
- Explore a sprawling underground realm by smashing through it! Unleash Donkey Kong's raw power to bash nearly anything. Exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2 system.
- Release Date: 7/17/2025
- $69.99 at Best Buy
As you search for hundreds of Banandium Gems hidden across each layer, use Donkey Kong's unique abilities to break open the terrain. Donkey Kong Bananza completely reinvents the series formula, letting DK smash, shatter, and crash through obstacles. You can punch through entire walls, hurl chunks as projectiles, or even surf on rock slabs.
Bananza wouldn't be possible without the Nintendo Switch 2's power. Initially developed for the original Switch, the team quickly realized its hardware limitations held the game back. This title stands as the best showcase of Switch 2 capabilities yet, particularly highlighting the innovative Voxel technology.
Donkey Kong Bananza is available now on Nintendo Switch 2, with the complete experience included on the cartridge. If you haven't picked it up yet, Best Buy is the perfect place to start your adventure.
What We Said in Our Review
In our 10/10 review, Logan Plant wrote: "The leader of the bunch has finally returned to kick some tail in Donkey Kong Bananza, a brilliant successor to Super Mario Odyssey and a smashing comeback for a classic Nintendo icon. It was a bold move to center Switch 2's first 3D platformer around Donkey Kong rather than Mario, but it proved to be the best decision possible. DK’s satisfying, expressive movement and dynamic abilities forge a truly groundbreaking adventure. The ambitious, destructible underground layers are densely packed with rewarding collectibles, charm, and clever challenges that never run out of smart ideas, even long after the credits roll. Bananza builds into a constant crescendo across its 20-hour campaign and beyond, offering puzzle-platforming depth that grows richer as DK and Pauline dive toward the Planet Core. Every element harmonizes perfectly to create Nintendo’s first Switch 2 masterpiece."
