Our Take
Donkey Kong Bananza is a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive platformer featuring DK in a fully destructible 3D world, where smashing through terrain is the core mechanic rather than a gimmick. Aimed primarily at fans of 3D platformers and existing Nintendo devotees, it sits as a flagship launch-window title designed to justify the Switch 2's upgrade.
Key Features
Fully destructible environments built around a geology-layered world that DK physically burrows, punches and tears apart
Bananza transformation system lets DK take on different animal forms, each with distinct movement and attack abilities
Co-operative two-player mode where a second player controls Pauline, who uses vocal/sound-based powers
Developed internally at Nintendo EPD, the same studio behind Super Mario Odyssey
Exploits Switch 2's increased processing power to handle large-scale real-time terrain destruction
World structure uses a downward-drilling progression rather than traditional hub-and-worlds layout
Our Verdict
Essential for Switch 2 owners who enjoy inventive 3D platformers and want a showcase title for the new hardware. Those still on Switch 1 face a costly entry point, and players firmly attached to the classic DKC side-scrolling formula should temper expectations — this is a very different beast.