Donkey Kong Bananza: A leap into a new era

GAMING NEWS Fyra Frost - Jul 17, 2025, 8:30 PM - 44 comments

The king of the jungle is back, but not as you remember him. Today, Nintendo launches Donkey Kong Bananza, a game that shatters expectations and redefines what the franchise can be. After more than two decades since the last true 3D installment in the series (Donkey Kong 64), and over a decade since the critically acclaimed Tropical Freeze, this new adventure arrives as one of the most daring reinventions in the series’ history.

A radical shift: Destruction as gameplay

Nintendo didn't just bring Donkey Kong back; it tore up the old rulebook. Gone are the purely linear stages and fixed paths that defined the Country era. In their place, Donkey Kong Bananza offers sprawling 3D environments built on a groundbreaking voxel system that allows players to destroy, reshape, and rebuild the world at will. Every cliff, wall, and obstacle can be smashed apart, opening up hidden routes and creative solutions that reward experimentation. This isn't just a platformer, it's a sandbox where brute force becomes a tool for exploration. The game features a fully-fledged skill tree system, which is a first for the franchise, and delivers an experience that feels part platformer, part action-adventure, with an unexpected dash of RPG depth.

Familiar Faces, Fresh Dynamics

While Donkey Kong is still the star of the show, he’s not alone. Pauline makes a triumphant return, this time as a playable character in the game’s new cooperative mode. Whether smashing through walls or teaming up for powerful combo moves, the duo’s synergy adds variety and unpredictability. It’s chaotic, yes, but in the best possible way, which is an ideal twist for those craving couch co-op with personality.

Critical Acclaim from Day One

If early reviews are any indication, Nintendo’s gamble has paid off. Donkey Kong Bananza launched with an 89 Metacritic score, positioning itself among the year's best releases. Critics have been quick to praise its creativity and technical ambition, and the verdict is clear: Donkey Kong Bananza isn't just a nostalgic revival, it's a contender for Game of the Year.

What Sets Bananza Apart from Its Predecessors?

For a franchise steeped in tradition, Donkey Kong Bananza is nothing short of transformative:

From Linear to Limitless – Open-ended worlds replace rigid stage designs.
Destruction as Core Gameplay – Entire environments can be demolished or reshaped at will.
Progression Systems – RPG-inspired upgrades and a branching skill tree bring long-term depth.
Dynamic Co-Op with Pauline – A series-first that changes how players approach challenges.

This bold philosophy echoes Nintendo's recent innovations in Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, signaling a shift toward player freedom across its flagship franchises.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Donkey Kong

Nintendo insiders suggest this is just the beginning. With critical acclaim and fan excitement at an all-time high, the company reportedly plans to split Donkey Kong into two distinct branches: traditional 2D side-scrollers and these ambitious 3D sandbox experiences, much like the dual evolution seen with Mario.

If Donkey Kong Bananza is any indication, the future looks bright, bold, and brilliantly destructive. Minor technical quirks aside, this is a defining moment for Donkey Kong and for Nintendo's next chapter in game design. Donkey Kong Bananza is a statement that even icons can evolve without losing their soul. Packed with charm, creativity, and cutting-edge mechanics, it’s one of 2025's must-play titles and a milestone for the platforming genre. As usual, our comparator offers you the best deals for Donkey Kong Bananza so you can get the game at the best price.

SlDiorite5

Jul 28, 2025, 4:50 AM

A great title to revive the DK franchise and a potential contender for GOTY as well. The team behind Super Mario Odyssey knows what they're doing!

razbhoot

Jul 23, 2025, 9:21 AM

Bringing back Pauline was a nice choice, even if it makes continuity a bit confusing. Dk being able to break everything is cool too. I like his new look. Hope to see more of them in future games.

gennyshark

Jul 22, 2025, 11:34 PM

When the first look for Bananza came out, I initially thought it would be a rehash of Mario Odyssey, with Pauline working as the magical element. I assumed we’d be traveling around collecting bananas and transforming into different objects and items to move around. However, the more I saw from the previews and trailers, the more excited I got. After playing through the game, I can say that this game brings that feeling back with a lot to look forward to in the future of the franchise.

FiskerMann

Jul 27, 2025, 7:39 AM on dlcompare.es

The best 3D platform game on the market, in my opinion. For me, it's the Game of the Year. From the gameplay to the story, the music and the characters, it's just brilliant.

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Cabilau

Jul 27, 2025, 1:29 AM on dlcompare.pt

A breath of fresh air for the franchise. The destruction of the scenery gives a very satisfying feeling once you've completed the level and the gameplay, with all the original and fun mechanics, also looks excellent. Nintendo doesn't usually fail with spin-offs and different approaches to pre-existing franchises.

LaviBorra

Jul 26, 2025, 9:21 AM on dlcompare.es

This game doesn't look like the Donkey Kong I grew up with. It would be great if the creators would listen to the opinions of long time fans like me. The rock smashing mechanic did not amuse me , and I wish the game had stayed more true to the traditional games.

Gamer2021

Jul 26, 2025, 2:58 AM on dlcompare.fr

Donkey Kong Bananza offers a polished experience in the classic world of Donkey Kong. The game mechanics are solid and the art direction successful, but the whole lacks innovation. A good platform game, especially for nostalgic fans, despite limited risk-taking.

Nachos

Jul 24, 2025, 3:33 PM on dlcompare.fr

I hope to see Donkey Kong Bananza nominated for a GOTY, as the game is very pleasant to play, and feels like it was made by the same team that made Super Mario Odyssey. The addition of the RPG system, with its skill tree and various cosmetic items offering small bonuses, is most welcome. Let's hope Nintendo continues to flesh out the Switch 2 catalog with titles of this quality, and even if the game has a few problems (FPS/Camera/Difficulty too low), one of my favorite games of 2025.

sergipd

Jul 23, 2025, 9:31 PM on dlcompare.es

I love how the last Zelda was based on creation and this Donkey Kong is focused on destroying everything you can. Plus being able to play with a family member or friend. I love these games. I love Nintendo 😂

FisheyePlacebo

Jul 22, 2025, 4:43 PM on dlcompare.fr

The return of the favorite monkey of our childhood (yes, we're old) brought up to date, exhilarating gameplay, clean visuals, the Switch 2's 60fps (although performance issues are present), Pauline, who doesn't love Pauline? (Well, okay, especially her adult version of Mario Odyssey), in short, I recommend this opus.