Donkey Kong Country Returns HD (Nintendo Switch)

Donkey Kong Country Returns HD will be great fun for those who’ve yet to experience Retro Studio’s platforming adventure, and I mean great with a capital G. But if you’ve already played this game on Wii, 3DS, or both, is there enough here to justify $59.99? Nintendo hasn’t provided anything to make me say yes. As an “enhanced” version, this release is inconsistent alongside comparable releases on the Switch and its industry contemporaries. I get that with Switch 2 on the horizon, Nintendo is trying to squeeze every last buck out of its original hybrid system. But Donkey Kong (and Diddy) deserve even better.

Make no mistake, though, this is still a fun, high-quality game that will keep you entertained to the end credits or even beyond. Completionists will get the most bang for their buck trying to collect every K-O-N-G letter and puzzle piece, many in hard-to-reach places. Yes, the game is still as challenging as ever. Some of the most troublesome parts occur when you aren’t even on your feet, like barrel cannons that require careful aim and timing. Along those lines, the barrel rockets seem to fly like DK ate too many fermented bananas; I can’t even blame Joy-Con drift, as that’s always been a thing. The “Modern Mode” of difficulty is simply the “New Mode” seen on the 3DS. It would’ve been nice to allow the option to change modes on the fly, but once you pick a selection, you’re locked in. But rest assured that while the game is tough to master (you might even say it could drive you bananas), it’s easy to learn.

I first played DKCR on 3DS, and while I was a fan of that version’s 3D, I never ponied up the cost for a second copy to enjoy the multiplayer. Now that I’ve played the game on Switch alongside my wife, I can say it’s my preferred way. If you have a player two, the appeal (or should that be a-peel) to enjoy this adventure in co-op is strong, and it can make certain parts more manageable. In fairness, it can also lead to some frantic frustration that will find you alternating between holding your breath and yelling… when you aren’t too busy laughing. Still, what chance can the Tiki Tak Tribe stand with two human players controlling Donkey and Diddy Kong?

While I miss the 3D, the game looks good on a large HD television screen. You can tell it’s a Wii game originating from 2010, but all things considered, it doesn’t look too outdated. It looks better in motion than still screens might indicate. The chance to play the previously 3DS-exclusive ninth world and levels in HD is cool, and extras include some unlockable galleries to further appreciate the artistry. There’s also a music player so you can enjoy the tunes without the danger of baddies, bottomless pits, environmental hazards, and all the threats that make this game (and the series) known for its challenge. It’s a pleasant mixture of new tunes and those paying homage to SNES originals. Aquatic Ambiance Returns is sure to make everyone smile.

Diversity is the name when it comes to DK’s moveset. You’ll be jumping on enemies, chucking barrels at them, pounding the ground to flip them, grabbing (and slipping) off vines, and more. Diddy has his own unique moves as well, making platforming genuinely entertaining. Motion controls (originating with the Wii original) are now optional. The variety extends to the worlds themselves, too. While starting in your typical jungle setting, beach, ruins, and beyond await, and the later worlds seem to look even better. While I feel like I played the 3DS version to death, there are fun surprises and standout moments that I don’t dare spoil for any just discovering this one for the first time.

Nintendo continues its long tradition of enhancing past games with Donkey Kong Country Returns HD. While the third time isn’t quite the charm it could have been—more of the same Retro Studios title that millions have already experienced on past Nintendo systems—the game is still plenty enjoyable, and even more in co-op. The Cranky Kong in me wants a long overdue brand-new entry in the series. But if you’ve missed this game through the years, this oldie is still a goodie, and make sure you don’t miss it a third time. Even though these bananas are looking a little brown at full launch price, grab the game at a discount, and you’ll have a “barrel-blasting adventure!”