Nintendo has unveiled a treasure trove of information regarding the highly anticipated game, Donkey Kong Bananza, set to launch on the Switch 2 on July 17. A dedicated Nintendo Direct presentation lasting 17 minutes provided fans with insights into the game’s narrative, characters, and gameplay mechanics.
A standout highlight from the Direct is the introduction of a young Pauline as Donkey Kong’s sidekick. This beloved character has visions of becoming a singer, marking her emergence as a major contributor to the storyline. Interestingly, Pauline evolves from Odd Rock, the unusual purple rock that had been observed in earlier gameplay teasers. The timeline for when this transformation takes place remains uncertain, but the footage showcased during the presentation implies that Pauline will accompany Donkey Kong throughout most of the adventure.
Previously leaked artwork in April hinted at this character’s inclusion when the South Korean Nintendo website inadvertently published images depicting Pauline alongside Donkey Kong.
The Nintendo Direct also introduced an exciting gameplay mechanic called Bananza transformations. These allow Donkey Kong to morph into various creatures like a zebra or ostrich, each bestowing unique abilities for limited durations.
Another exciting addition is the Challenge Course Ruins, presenting players with skill-based missions that appear to draw inspiration from classic titles, including the original Donkey Kong and iconic minecart sections from the Donkey Kong Country series.
Throughout the game, players can collect Skill Points, which empower Donkey Kong with new abilities. Not only that, players can also unlock various outfits for both Donkey Kong and Pauline, with many providing buffs or distinct advantages.
Co-op play is a significant feature, enabling a second player to use the Switch 2’s mouse controls as Pauline, shouting at enemies to defeat them. Furthermore, the game will support GameShare, allowing two devices to enjoy the game together with just one copy.
Interestingly, Donkey Kong Bananza will also incorporate a DK Artist mode, letting players craft their own rock sculptures and apply creative paint jobs.
As part of the game’s launch, a special amiibo figurine featuring Donkey Kong and Pauline is also in the pipeline. Scanning this amiibo will grant players access to the exclusive Diva Dress for Pauline ahead of time. In a recent tweet, Nintendo noted that this dress could potentially be unlocked through regular gameplay, eliminating the need for the amiibo.
In Donkey Kong Bananza, players embark on a quest to reach the Planet Core, a legendary location said to grant wishes. Donkey Kong desires more bananas, while Pauline hopes to return to the surface. However, they face competition from the Void Company, a mining operation with sinister designs, which are responsible for the troubles that pushed Donkey Kong underground and transformed Pauline into Odd Rock.
As players navigate the Underground World, they’ll uncover various collectibles, including golden Banandium Gems that can be used to earn Skill Points, enabling character upgrades. They can also collect Banandium Chips, which can be exchanged at the Chip Exchange for gems, while Banandium Gold can be traded for useful items at the Stuff Shop. Players will also have the chance to discover fossils during their adventures, which can be taken to Style Shops for fashionable rewards that provide various benefits.
Various characters and creatures will make appearances throughout this journey, with Donkey Kong and Pauline crossing paths with familiar faces like Cranky Kong and Rambi. Players will also encounter new characters, including several members of the Void Company, such as the leader Void Kong.
As players explore the Underground World, they can take a moment to recharge with a Getaway, settling in a cozy bed while enjoying their chosen music. For easier navigation, the game includes Eelevators, which are subterranean eels that help players travel swiftly between layers of the underground.
Moreover, the game promises creative modes, like Photo Mode, which adjusts camera angles for the perfect shot. DK Artist mode offers players a chance to step away from the action, allowing them to carve designs into stone with the Joy-Con 2 controls, along with customizable lighting and effects to enhance their creations.
Donkey Kong Bananza also supports amiibo functionality, with the primary amiibo providing Pauline’s Diva Dress and special explosive KONG tiles. Scanning other amiibo figures from the Donkey Kong franchise can yield additional rewards, such as gold KONG tiles. Other amiibo will contribute to the game’s terrain material, facilitating exploration.
As the release looms closer, fans of the series are eagerly awaiting the unique features and gameplay mechanics of Donkey Kong Bananza, promising an exciting adventure filled with nostalgia, creativity, and co-op fun.
image source from：videogameschronicle
