Nintendo showcased fresh Donkey Kong Bananza gameplay today during its Direct presentation, confirming Super Mario Odyssey's Pauline will serve as DK's companion throughout the adventure.
This redesigned younger Pauline briefly surfaced in leaked materials before Nintendo removed them. How this 3D platformer connects to the broader Donkey Kong narrative remains unclear.
The gameplay reveal demonstrated Pauline utilizing her musical abilities to morph DK into various forms - including a charging zebra and an egg-dropping ostrich. As a second-player character, Pauline's voice converts into explosive attacks controllable via Joy-Con motion aiming, transforming Bananza into a cooperative experience.
Through GameShare functionality, local multiplayer sessions support multiple Switch consoles (including Switch 1) without requiring secondary players to own the game.
The presentation unveiled several innovative mechanics - DK can grind on torn-up environmental pieces and assemble them into bridges. DK Artist mode introduces creative destruction, allowing players to sculpt stone statues.
Fans spotted returning favorites Cranky Kong and Rambi alongside surprise appearances from Diddy and Dixie Kong, though their involvement remains unspecified.
Nintendo separately confirmed Diddy and Dixie's participation via social media, revealing their roles in Bananza's racing minigame.
The Direct also featured a remastered DK Rap theme from Donkey Kong 64, raising questions about composer Grant Kirkhope's involvement following his Super Mario Movie credits controversy.
Curiously absent was confirmation regarding Bananza's development team, despite speculation pointing to Super Mario Odyssey's creators. Pauline's prominent role further fuels these theories.
Alongside the game, Nintendo announced a special Donkey Kong + Pauline amiibo releasing simultaneously, granting early Pauline costume unlocks. All existing amiibo provide construction materials when scanned.
Donkey Kong Bananza Screenshots
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"Bananza demonstrates Nintendo's graphical mastery," noted IGN's preview. "The game showcases Switch 2's capabilities with breathtaking environments and remarkably expressive animations, signaling Nintendo's next-generation evolution."
Donkey Kong Bananza arrives exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2 on July 17.
