Nintendo’s latest entry into the 3D platformer genre is a masterclass in game design — driven by a wildly satisfying core mechanic, a lovable duo, and a colorful, inventive world that begs to be explored.
The most iconic Nintendo titles share two things: a standout gameplay mechanic, and a richly imagined world that fully embraces it. Think of Ultrahand in Tears of the Kingdom, or Cappy in Super Mario Odyssey. When Nintendo nails both — when gameplay and world-building align — the result is unforgettable. With Donkey Kong Bananza, the company may have struck gold once again.
It’s still early in the Nintendo Switch 2’s lifespan, but Bananza feels like a foundational release — one that shows what the hardware can do and what creative risks Nintendo is willing to take. The game centers around a beautifully absurd mechanic: smashing. DK smashes everything — walls, trees, mountains, even the ground — and that act of destruction is surprisingly nuanced, tactile, and fun.
At first glance, it seemed like a one-note gimmick. The opening tutorial — a cavernous gold mine where DK punches his way through rock — had me worried it might get repetitive. But once the villainous VoidCo shows up and steals the mysterious Banandium gems, the game opens up in a big way. Each world, represented as a “layer” of the planet, introduces new biomes, challenges, characters, and secrets — all of them ready to be smashed.
Smashing with Style
The core “smash everything” mechanic is elevated by the game’s sensory feedback. Vibrant visuals, punchy sound design, and haptic cues make every smash feel different — whether you’re crushing stone, tearing through foliage, or splintering wooden platforms. It never gets old. And it’s not just destructive — it’s exploratory. Smashing leads to hidden paths, power-ups, fossils, bananas, and the ever-important Banandium gems (which unlock upgrades and deeper story progression).
You’re encouraged to wander and destroy freely, but Bananza also gently nudges you toward your objectives. The level design — particularly in places like the sunny, splashy “Lagoon Layer” — is classic Nintendo: open yet structured, full of whimsy but never overwhelming.
A Partner Worth Singing About
DK isn’t on this journey alone. His companion is none other than Pauline — yes, the same Pauline from the original Donkey Kong arcade game, reimagined here as a gutsy 13-year-old who was captured by VoidCo and later rescued by DK. She rides on DK’s shoulder, sings to unlock new powers, and serves as both a helper and emotional anchor throughout the game.
Pauline’s singing triggers “Bananza Powers” gifted by bizarre Elder animals (including a DJ ostrich and a raving zebra). Each song unlocks abilities like super-charged punches or temporary flight — all key to navigating later worlds. The singing sequences are delightful set pieces, complete with wild dance parties and laugh-out-loud absurdity.
Though she doesn’t get deep character arcs, Pauline’s personality shines in the details — especially in moments of downtime. When DK naps at checkpoints, she chatters sleepily about their adventures, trailing off like a kid resisting bedtime. It’s optional, heartfelt, and completely Nintendo.
A Smashing Success with Heart
As I near the final stretch of the game, I find myself just as invested in Pauline and DK’s journey as I am in collecting more Banandium or uncovering every last banana. Donkey Kong Bananza has that rare blend of kinetic joy and emotional charm that defines Nintendo at its best.
It’s not just a great game — it’s a great Donkey Kong game. It honors the character’s roots while pushing the series forward with fresh mechanics and a bold new world. While it may not be as headline-grabbing as Mario Kart World or Zelda, it’s arguably the Switch 2’s first must-play title — and a potential modern classic for fans of the genre.