Nintendo delivered an exciting glimpse into the future of one of its beloved franchises with the Donkey Kong Bananza Direct on Wednesday, June 18, 2025. The 18-minute presentation unveiled fresh details about the game’s world, mechanics, and characters—especially Pauline, DK’s mysterious new companion. Dive in to discover what lies beneath the surface in this highly anticipated action-adventure platformer.
Welcome to the Underground
In the Donkey Kong Bananza Direct, Nintendo pulled back the curtain on the game’s vibrant and expansive underground world. After a violent storm sweeps Donkey Kong away from the Golden Bananas of Ingot Isle, he awakens deep beneath the surface in a mysterious subterranean realm. There, he meets Odd Rock—a peculiar talking stone who turns out to be a young girl named Pauline trapped in rocky form. Together, they embark on a daring journey toward the planet’s core, where legend says any wish can be granted.
But they’re not alone on this quest. The sinister Void Company stands in their way, determined to reach the core first and exploit its power for their own dark ambitions. With high stakes and an epic adventure ahead, DK and Pauline must overcome obstacles, battle enemies, and uncover secrets hidden throughout the depths.
Smash, Throw, Jump, Interact With The Environment
Donkey Kong Bananza introduces a dynamic, physics-driven environment that encourages creative exploration. Donkey Kong isn’t just limited to running and jumping—players can climb cliffs, smash through obstacles, hurl debris, and even reshape the terrain to forge new paths. The world is packed with hidden treasures and secret items, many of which are only accessible through strategic destruction.
Different materials offer unique gameplay possibilities: heavy rocks can be launched at enemies for maximum impact, while softer substances like sand and soil can be stacked to create bridges or towers, opening up new routes and puzzle-solving opportunities. This level of interactivity makes every area feel alive and full of potential.
Co-Op Multiplayer With Pauline
One of the standout features of Donkey Kong Bananza is its innovative co-op gameplay. Pauline isn’t just a sidekick—she’s a fully playable character, making her the perfect Player 2 partner. Using Joy-Con motion controls or mouse-style input, a second player can take control of Pauline, wielding her powerful voice to blast enemies, solve puzzles, and support DK in real time.
Pauline can also replicate nearby materials to amplify her vocal attacks, adding a layer of strategy to combat and exploration. Thanks to the Switch 2’s GameShare functionality, co-op play is more accessible than ever—players can share the experience locally with another Switch (1 or 2) even without a second copy of the game, or connect online via GameChat for seamless multiplayer action.
Music Is the Heart of It All – DK Transformation Go!
Music plays a central role in Donkey Kong Bananza, especially through Pauline’s magical singing voice. Her melodies don’t just set the mood—they transform Donkey Kong into powerful new forms known as Bananzas. These temporary transformations include a giant-sized DK for brute strength, a zebra for speed, and even a flying ostrich for aerial traversal.
Each form is fueled by Bananergy, a special meter replenished by collecting gold. Players can switch between forms on the fly, enabling smooth transitions from high-speed chases to mid-air glides and ground-shaking stomps. Pauline’s voice also serves as a navigational aid during quests, guiding players with melodic cues and rhythmic hints.
Outfit Customization, Photo Mode, and DK Artist Mode
For players who love personalization and creativity, Donkey Kong Bananza delivers a suite of fun and expressive features. Customize DK and Pauline with a wide range of stylish outfits, each unlockable through gameplay or in-game purchases, letting your characters stand out as you explore the underground world.
Capture your favorite moments with Photo Mode, which allows you to adjust camera angles, lighting, filters, and effects to create stunning in-game snapshots. Whether it’s a dramatic boss fight or a scenic underground vista, every moment is share-worthy.
Beyond the main adventure, players can unleash their inner artist in DK Artist Mode—a sandbox experience where you can sculpt, paint, and build stone-based masterpieces. Carve, layer, and decorate to your heart’s content and bring your vision of the DK universe to life.
Donkey Kong Bananza is set to launch on July 17, 2025, exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2. With its blend of platforming, destruction, co-op adventure, and musical transformation, this title promises to be one of the most inventive entries in the franchise yet. Stay tuned for more updates, and prepare to go deep—below the surface, the adventure is just beginning.
For additional details, check out Game8’s full coverage below!
