Monkey-Themed Game: Multiple Bananas Obtained with a Punch in This Adventure
Get ready for an exciting new adventure as Nintendo introduces **Donkey Kong Bananza**, a thrilling single-player game that is set to be a system-seller for the Nintendo Switch 2. Launching exclusively on this platform on July 17, 2025, Donkey Kong Bananza is one of the biggest releases for the new system, designed to leverage the Switch 2's capabilities.
In this 3D platforming action-adventure game, players will control both Donkey Kong and his companion, young Pauline. The game features open-world, sandbox-style levels inspired by Super Mario Odyssey, with an emphasis on exploration, objective completion, enemy battles, and item collection. A key distinguishing feature is the highly destructible environment—most terrain can be smashed to create new paths and uncover secrets, enabled by advanced voxel technology adapted from Odyssey's level design.
The objective of the game is to stop an evil mining corporation's exploitative plans and reach the planet's core. Players will run, jump, climb, and smash through obstacles while chasing the villainous Void Company to recover stolen Golden Bananas. Pauline is a playable companion, adding to the cooperative gameplay elements. The game also supports amiibo integration, which unlocks special costumes and in-game bonuses.
As players progress, they will find that the game's levels have certain limitations, but this doesn't deter from the excitement. The game's destructible levels suggest that it will require a significant amount of effort to play through to completion. Small details and hidden niches, each offering a reward, add an extra layer of intrigue to the gameplay.
Donkey Kong Bananza is rated for ages 6 and up (USK). The game's score of 91 on Opencritic.com makes it one of the best games of the year. The characters in the game are cute and a bit strange, similar to other Nintendo games, adding to the charm of the game.
The game is available only for the Nintendo Switch 2. The digital version of Donkey Kong Bananza costs around 70 euros, while the physical version costs about 10 euros more. With its innovative gameplay, destructible worlds, and expansive exploration, Donkey Kong Bananza serves as a flagship title helping to drive Nintendo Switch 2 sales.
In this 3D platforming action-adventure game on Nintendo Switch 2, players can expect technology advanced voxel technology to deliver a highly destructible environment. After launching exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2 on July 17, 2025, Donkey Kong Bananza offers entertainment options like cooperative gameplay and amiibo integration.