DK’s Latest Adventure Offers Transformative Gameplay and a Banana Bonanza
Nintendo’s newest installment in the Donkey Kong franchise delivers a vibrant world of exploration, challenging platforming, and a surprising amount of digging. The game distinguishes itself with unique “Bananza” transformations and a focus on optional collectibles that enhance the player experience.
The core gameplay loop revolves around collecting giant bananas, which are as abundant and diverse in their placement as the Power Moons found in Super Mario Odyssey. Players will discover some bananas in plain sight, while others are hidden in intricate underground areas, often requiring the use of in-game treasure maps. Many are locked behind elaborate challenges testing precision platforming, terrain destruction, and combat prowess.
As players progress, they unlock a series of animalistic transformations, courtesy of a “menagerie of gigantic animal DJs.” These transformations grant DK temporary new abilities. For example, players can utilize a quick-dashing Zebra or a fluttering, hovering ostrich, adding new dimensions to both exploration and puzzle-solving. According to developers, these transformations aren’t just cosmetic; they introduce “specific gatekeeping challenges” and become a valuable addition to the player’s “locomotion toolbelt.”
However, the adventure isn’t without its challenges. The game introduces a unique mechanic involving digging through thick patches of dirt to create narrow, Kong-sized tunnels. While the camera system attempts to mitigate the claustrophobia by making the surrounding earth opaque and highlighting key features, it’s still easy to become disoriented. One developer wryly noted the solution to getting lost is simply to “dig up, stupid.”
Unlike Super Mario Odyssey, collecting bananas isn’t essential for story progression. Instead, they serve as a currency for unlocking upgrades on a “surprisingly deep skill tree.” Players can use bananas to increase DK’s health, punching power, or extend the duration of their Bananza transformations. Additional collectibles can be used to purchase stylish and protective outfits, further enhancing DK’s endurance.
The game features elaborate, wide-open levels, encouraging exploration as players embark on a quest toward the planet’s core. Nintendo appears to be prioritizing player agency and rewarding curiosity with a wealth of optional content and transformative abilities.
