Donkey Kong Country on Switch 2: The Classic Platformer That Still Crushes Your Skills
Donkey Kong Country proves it’s still a tough nut to crack, even on the new Switch 2. Nintendo’s iconic ape has been around since 1981, constantly swinging through reissues, multiplayer games, and even the Mario movie. Now, with the upcoming Donkey Kong Bananza on Switch 2, DK is back at the forefront with a fresh 3D adventure that promises to push the console’s limits.
– A look back at the classic Donkey Kong Country on SNES
– How the original game’s challenge still holds up today
– The gameplay elements that make DK a platforming legend
– What to expect from the upcoming Donkey Kong Bananza on Switch 2
Revisiting the Classic Donkey Kong Country
Before diving into the new Donkey Kong Bananza, it’s worth remembering where it all started. The original Donkey Kong Country from 1994 is a brutal but rewarding 2D platformer developed by Rare. It’s the foundation of DK’s modern legacy, and playing it today through Nintendo Switch Online feels like a masterclass in classic platforming. The game’s pre-rendered graphics, tight controls, and relentless difficulty make it a timeless challenge.
Unlike newer platformers with sprawling maps and complex narratives, Donkey Kong Country keeps things simple: jump, roll, duck, and barrel blast your way through levels filled with enemies and secrets. The story is minimal, focusing on bopping Kremlings and facing off against King K. Rool. And trust me, this game punishes impatience—one wrong move can mean losing a life and starting over.
The Challenge That Never Gets Old
If you think modern games are hard, try navigating Donkey Kong Country’s levels where precision is everything. From sprint jumps on treetop platforms to minecart rides where a split-second mistake sends you plummeting, the game demands focus and quick reflexes. The one-hit-kill design means enemies and obstacles can surprise you at any moment, creating more jump scares than some horror games.
Thankfully, Nintendo Switch Online offers a “Suspend Point” feature, which is a lifesaver for those moments when frustration peaks. Without it, finishing the game might feel impossible for many players.
Visuals and Atmosphere That Still Impress
Donkey Kong Country was praised for its groundbreaking pre-rendered sprites and backgrounds. Playing it now, what stands out is how Rare used lighting and textures to create immersive environments. Whether it’s the vibrant colors of the jungle, the chilling Blizzard conditions in Gorilla Glacier, or the narrow flashlight beam in “Torchlight Trouble,” the atmosphere keeps you on edge.
Secrets and Completionist Challenges
Finishing Donkey Kong Country isn’t just about beating levels—it’s about hunting down every secret to reach 101% completion. This involves finding hidden barrels, uncovering secret paths, and mastering every jump and roll. It’s a game for those who love to explore every nook and cranny and have the reflexes to match.
Rare’s work on Donkey Kong Country set the standard for future DK games, which gradually expanded with more abilities and complex enemies. The only real 3D Donkey Kong game, Donkey Kong 64, shifted towards a collect-a-thon style, and Nintendo’s upcoming Bananza will likely share some DNA with it, hopefully with more success.
Looking Ahead: Donkey Kong Bananza on Switch 2
While Nintendo hasn’t provided early access to Donkey Kong Bananza, it’s clear that this new 3D adventure aims to showcase what Switch 2 can do. If it captures even a fraction of the original Donkey Kong Country’s legacy—testing players’ timing and platforming skills—it could become one of the console’s standout titles.
Donkey Kong Country remains a pure, tough-as-nails platformer that challenges players to master every move. It’s a speedrunner’s dream and a cozy gamer’s anxiety attack all rolled into one. If Bananza follows in those footsteps, it’s definitely a game to watch when it launches on July 17.
