Donkey Kong is back and he’s bringing classic platforming action to the Nintendo Switch in Donkey Kong Country Returns HD, launching on January 16, 2025. This enhanced edition breathes new life into one of the most beloved Donkey Kong adventures, delivering fast-paced gameplay, refined visuals, and a wealth of content for both newcomers and longtime fans.
From explosive barrel launches to heart-pounding mine cart rides, Donkey Kong Country Returns HD is packed with nonstop platforming fun. Players will leap across treacherous gaps, bounce off enemies, uncover hidden paths, and take on challenging obstacles that demand precise timing and quick reflexes.
A jungle in trouble
Peace on Donkey Kong Island has been shattered by the mischievous Tiki Tak Tribe. These banana-stealing troublemakers have hypnotized the island’s wildlife and made off with Donkey Kong’s precious banana hoard. Naturally, DK won’t let that slide. Joined by his trusty partner Diddy Kong, he sets off on a daring quest to reclaim every last banana and restore order to the island.
A massive adventure full of challenges
The game features 80 levels spread across nine diverse worlds, each ending with a dangerous boss battle that puts your platforming skills to the test. From lush jungles and fiery volcanoes to collapsing ruins and stormy beaches, every world offers its own hazards, surprises, and secrets.
For players who love a challenge, there’s plenty to discover beyond simply reaching the goal. Hidden collectibles, time-based medal challenges, and secret stages reward exploration and mastery. Keen-eyed players will uncover bonus areas, hidden routes, and clever environmental puzzles scattered throughout the island.
Secrets worth searching for
Exploration plays a huge role in Donkey Kong Country Returns HD. Puzzle pieces unlock artwork and dioramas, while collecting all the K-O-N-G letters in a world opens up secret levels. Observant players can uncover hidden content by slamming suspicious floors, blowing on plants, tossing barrels at odd obstacles, or charging through barriers with Rambi the Rhino.
Team up in local co-op
Everything is better together. Hand a controller to a friend and jump into local co-op mode, where the second player takes control of Diddy Kong. Diddy’s jetpack helps make tricky jumps more forgiving, while his peanut popgun can stun enemies and provide valuable support during intense moments.
Helpful items from Cranky Kong
If the adventure gets tough, Cranky Kong’s shop has your back (if you collected enough banana coins). Stock up on extra lives, invincibility items, and other helpful gear to make your journey across Donkey Kong Island a little easier.
The best of Wii and Nintendo 3DS combined
Donkey Kong Country Returns HD brings together features from both the original Wii release and the Nintendo 3DS version. Players can choose between motion controls, button controls, or a mix of both. The game also includes the eight additional levels that previously appeared only on Nintendo 3DS.
To suit different playstyles, you can select between a Modern Mode, which offers extra hearts and helpful items, or a Classic Mode for a tougher, old-school platforming challenge.
With improved visuals, tons of content, and refined gameplay options, Donkey Kong Country Returns HD is the definitive way to experience this iconic platformer. Get ready to roll, jump, and smash your way through the jungle when it arrives on Nintendo Switch on January 16, 2025.
