Donkey Kong Bananza brings 3D platforming and chaos to Nintendo Switch 2 launch lineup

Nintendo’s upcoming console, the Switch 2, will launch with Donkey Kong Bananza, a vibrant and action-packed platformer that puts the spotlight back on one of its most iconic characters. According to Jordan Minor of PCMag, the game was the standout title at Nintendo’s recent hands-on event—so compelling it briefly made him forget about Mario.

In Bananza, Donkey Kong features a refreshed design—first seen in The Super Mario Bros. Movie—with expressive eyes and finely detailed, feather-like fur. The first level is set in a gold mine, where Kong dons a miner’s outfit and powers through mud, crystals, and hidden bananas in a richly interactive, destructible environment.

Though not officially confirmed, Minor speculates that the game could be the work of Nintendo’s Tokyo studio, the developers behind Super Mario Odyssey and Donkey Kong Jungle Beat. Bananza mixes 3D platforming with classic 2D-style sequences, like barrel blasts and mine carts, while leaning into Donkey Kong’s brute strength. Rather than bouncing around like Mario, players smash through terrain, unearth collectibles, and hurl explosive rocks to solve puzzles and defeat enemies.

Other mechanics include rolling into a ball, climbing walls, and interacting with a mysterious talking rock companion. While not all abilities were needed in the demo, Minor noted the controls felt intuitive and teased deeper exploration possibilities ahead.

Donkey Kong Bananza will be released exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2 on July 17, retailing at $70. With stunning visuals, tactile gameplay, and a fresh direction for the franchise, Bananza is shaping up to be the 3D Donkey Kong adventure fans have been waiting for.