Nintendo has officially revealed Donkey Kong Bananza, a new 3D platformer coming to the Nintendo Switch 2, during a dedicated Direct presentation on June 18, 2025. This marks the first 3D Donkey Kong adventure since Donkey Kong 64 launched in 1999, ending a 26-year gap between major 3D entries in the franchise.
Developed by Nintendo EPD’s Division 8—the same team behind the critically acclaimed Super Mario Odyssey – Donkey Kong Bananza showcases a vibrant, destructible world filled with sandbox-style exploration, collectibles, and platforming challenges.
The Direct’s biggest surprise came with the revelation that Pauline, who first appeared as the damsel in distress in the original Donkey Kong arcade game and later as Mayor of New Donk City in Super Mario Odyssey, will play a central role. Appearing in a younger “kid” form, Pauline serves as Donkey Kong’s sidekick throughout the adventure after being rescued from a mysterious rock early in the story.
Donkey Kong Bananza features full co-op play, allowing a second player to control Pauline, who brings unique abilities to the table, most notably her singing talents that can trigger environmental changes. The game will utilize the Switch 2’s enhanced capabilities, while also supporting a “Game Share” feature that allows players to stream gameplay to an original Nintendo Switch for local multiplayer.
The gameplay footage revealed a variety of mechanics reminiscent of Super Mario Odyssey but tailored to Donkey Kong’s characteristics. Players can expect transformations, RPG-style skill trees, gear upgrades, and unlockable costumes that provide gameplay bonuses. The environments are highly interactive with physics-based destruction that enables secret-finding and unique traversal options.
Fan-favorite characters Diddy and Dixie Kong make appearances running a shop in the game, with the Direct showing improved framerates and visuals compared to previous demos. The presentation also highlighted the game’s musical elements, featuring both new tracks and remixes of classic Donkey Kong Country music.
The story centers around the mysterious “Void Company” that has been encasing characters in rocks, with DK and Pauline working together to find out what’s going on and rescue others. Levels include both new locations and areas referencing classic and modern Donkey Kong Country games.
Banana Slamma back in action
An “Artist Mode” will provide accessibility options for easier gameplay, continuing Nintendo’s trend of making their flagship titles more inclusive. The Direct also hinted at costumed tie-ins with other Nintendo titles like Mario Kart World, suggesting broader integration within Nintendo’s gaming ecosystem.
With its late 2025 release window, Donkey Kong Bananza positions itself as a key title for the Nintendo Switch 2’s launch period, putting the Donkey Kong franchise front and center alongside Mario, Zelda, and other big Nintendo games.
