Donkey Kong Country Returns HD Review

This game is Bananas…..I’ll stop….

Overview

Donkey Kong Country Returns HD is a high-definition remaster of the classic 2010 Wii platformer, Donkey Kong Country Returns, released on January 16, 2025, for the Nintendo Switch. It combines all the original levels with the 3DS version content, providing a complete package for returning players and newcomers alike.

Visuals and Technical Attributes

The graphics have been upgraded with sharper textures, improved lighting, and better character models (Donkey and Diddy now have fur detail akin to Tropical Freeze). The game runs at a smoother 60 FPS in most areas, which is a huge step up from the 3DS release. However, some of the visual effects present in the Wii original are toned down or missing, and there are occasional frame drops during bosses and busy stages. Load times are longer than the Wii version, which is mildly annoying when you want to play multiple times.

Gameplay and Features

The Switch version also supports optional motion controls.

There are two modes:

Original Mode mirrors the Wii version’s difficulty with two hearts and a restricted item capacity, and “Modern Mode” (based on the 3DS remake) also offers an extra heart and item helpers. Local two-player co-op is supported, with one player controlling Donkey and the other Diddy.

Level Design & Replay Value

The journey takes place across nine worlds and 80 levels, including mines, volcanoes, jungles, and factories. Classic barrel blasting, mine cart rides, and rocket barrel sequences return, demanding split-second precision. Replay value stems from the KONG letters, puzzle pieces, and time attack challenges issued by Cranky Kong. Some of the bonus levels are repetitive, however. Overall, it is a challenging platformer that is rewarding on completion but extremely punishing and frustrating.

What works:

Tight platforming mechanics, improved visuals, and a high level of challenge.
Great entry point for newcomers (Modern Mode).
All previous content is bundled as one package.

What could’ve been better:

Doesn’t fully take advantage of what the Switch can do.
The game experiences a couple of technical hiccups, such as longer load times and an occasional drop in frame rates.
Feels more like a safe upgrade than a bold re-imagining.

Verdict:

If you’re a newcomer to Donkey Kong Country Returns, this is the best way to experience it. It is a polished and fun throwback to the classic 2D Mario games with some modern conveniences. But if you’ve played the Wii or 3DS games, especially alongside Tropical Freeze, it could feel underwhelming for the $60 price.