Bananza Is Back: Donkey Kong Goes 3D Again

🍌 Donkey Kong’s Return to 3D Platforming

Bananza taps into the nostalgic essence of DK while offering next-gen polish and creativity. With Nintendo EPD's team behind Odyssey, expect finely tuned mechanics and charming surprises. Destructible environments, voice-powered gameplay, dynamic co-op featuring young Pauline, and a vibrant, jungle-packed world, Bananza aims to capture the hearts of both longtime fans and newcomers alike.

🚀 Launch Details & Overview:

• Platform: Exclusive to Nintendo Switch 2—it won’t work on the original model
• Publisher: Nintendo
• Release Date: July 17, 2025
• Price: Standard MSRP is US $69.99
• Genre: 3D Platformer, Adventure
• Modes: Single-player, Local Co-op

Optimized for the Nintendo Switch 2, this game uses the console’s improved hardware to deliver smoother performance, detailed visuals, and advanced mechanics that weren’t possible on the original Switch.

🧨Destructible Environments where Super Mario Odyssey meets Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Players can smash, dig, and destroy parts of the world to discover hidden paths, treasure, and puzzle solutions. It’s a dynamic layer that makes exploration unpredictable and rewarding.

👧 Playable Young Pauline & Co-Op Mode

For the first time ever, Young Pauline joins the action as a co-op partner, using voice-based powers to interact with the environment. This opens up fresh puzzle-solving and story opportunities in two-player mode.

💎 Rich Collectibles and Skill Progression

Bananza also introduces Banadium gems, banana clusters, fossils, and more—used to upgrade abilities, unlock cosmetics, and complete side quests. It's got a Mario Odyssey meets Metroidvania vibe that encourages deep exploration.

⏱️How Long is Donkey Kong Bananza?

• Main Story Only: 10–15 hours (quick-paced runs focus on reaching the core and credits)
• Story + Side Content: 20–30 hours (includes exploration, collectibles, and optional challenges)
• Completionist Run: 50–60+ hours (aiming to gather all 777 Banandium, fossils, music discs, and post‑game quests)

🎬Donkey Kong Bananza Trailer & Gameplay

⭐ Donkey Kong Bananza – Review Highlights

Metacritic Score:

• 90/100 (based on critic reviews)

• Among the highest-rated Switch 2 exclusives

• Ties Donkey Kong 64 as the top-rated DK game ever

OpenCritic Score:

• 91 average with 100% of critics recommending it

IGN Score:

• 10/10, calling it a "masterpiece" of 3D platforming

Critical Praise:

• Innovative 3D gameplay and destructible environments

• Smart co-op design with Young Pauline

• Gorgeous art style and level variety

• Polished performance at 60 FPS on Switch 2

• Strong contender for Game of the Year 2025

🧱Games similar to Donkey Kong Bananza

If you’re hyped for Donkey Kong Bananza, you’ll likely enjoy other 3D platformers like Donkey Kong 64, Super Mario Odyssey, and Banjo-Kazooie—all packed with exploration, collectibles, and character charm. Fans might also love Crash Bandicoot 4, Kirby and the Forgotten Land, and Spyro Reignited Trilogy for their fun, polished platforming experiences.

✅Final Take of DK Bananza

Bananza is more than a game—it’s a Banana Bonanza that redefines Donkey Kong’s legacy. It’s the perfect pick for both veteran fans and newcomers eager for modern platforming thrills. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Kong family or new to the jungle, this game promises action, charm, and endless banana-fueled fun. Mark your calendars for July 17 and get ready to go bananas—this is one adventure you don’t want to miss.

Want more gaming news and launch updates? Don’t forget to follow Bobba Games and join our community of gamers worldwide!