Donkey Kong Country Returns HD has swung onto the Nintendo Switch, offering both a nostalgic journey for longtime fans and an accessible adventure for newcomers. This remaster of the 2010 Wii classic brings the beloved platformer to a new generation, with enhancements that refine the original experience. Disclaimer: I have not played the original Wii version since I didn’t want to throw the Wii Mote through the television.
DK – Donkey Kong 🎵🎶
Storywise, there is not that big of a change since the narrative remains faithful to its roots: the nefarious Tiki Tak Tribe has hypnotized the animals of Donkey Kong Island, compelling them to steal Donkey Kong’s precious banana hoard. Enraged and determined, Donkey Kong and his trusty companion, Diddy Kong, embark on a quest to reclaim his stolen treasure and restore peace to the island. This straightforward story does the job to keep you entertained but in its core, it’s all about the levels. Oh, and did I mention those are hard as nails?
Gameplay and difficulty
Donkey Kong Country Returns HD is highly regarded for its challenging platforming elements, and the Nintendo Switch version adheres to this tradition. Donkey Kong stayed true to its higher difficulty level and this might surprise younger Nintendo fans. Players engage with intricately designed levels that feature difficult jumps, strategically crafted enemies, and concealed collectibles. The game introduces distinct mechanics in each stage, including silhouette levels that utilize lighting and shadow creatively, thereby enhancing both the visual experience and the depth of gameplay. Gameplay-wise, I think those silhouette levels were probably my favorite. It gave me a great deal of nostalgia while combining it with some of the best platforming I have seen.
To accommodate players who may have found the original game daunting (hey that’s me), the Switch version offers a “Modern Mode.” This mode grants Donkey Kong an additional heart, increasing his health from two to three, and permits players to carry up to nine useful items into each level. These items, which are available for purchase at Cranky Kong’s shop, include potions that provide temporary invincibility and health enhancements. This approach makes the gameplay more accessible while preserving the overall sense of accomplishment. Still, the game kicked my butt more often than it did in Hollow Knight and Blasmephous combined.
Does modern mode make the game less … desirable? No, despite these additions, certain levels, particularly the minecart and rocket-barrel stages, remain challenging. These sections often require precise timing and memorization, as any contact with obstacles results in an instant loss, regardless of remaining healthy. To assist players, the game offers a “Super Guide” feature, where Super Kong can complete a level on the player’s behalf, allowing progression while encouraging players to revisit and conquer challenges at their own pace. Which I certainly did not use on one or two Minecart levels… stop looking at me like that.
Enhancements in the Switch release
So, what do we get, next to being released on the same date as the announcement for the Nintendo Switch 2? Well, transitioning from the Wii to the Switch, Donkey Kong Country Returns HD benefits from several notable improvements:
- Visuals: The game now features high-definition graphics that breathe new life into the vibrant environments of Donkey Kong Island. While the art style remains consistent, the enhanced resolution makes textures sharper and colors more vivid, providing a more immersive experience.
- Controls: One of the most significant changes is the removal of mandatory motion controls. In the original Wii version, actions like ground-pounding required shaking the Wii Remote, which some players found imprecise. The Switch version maps these actions to standard button presses, resulting in more responsive and comfortable gameplay.
- Content: This HD release includes additional levels that were previously exclusive to the 3DS version, offering fresh challenges for returning players. These levels integrate seamlessly into the existing world, maintaining a cohesive feel.
Conclusion
Donkey Kong Country Returns HD on the Nintendo Switch successfully revitalizes a classic, blending challenging platforming with thoughtful enhancements. The introduction of Modern Mode and refined controls make the game more accessible, while the core difficulty and charm remain intact for series veterans. Whether revisiting Donkey Kong Island or exploring it for the first time, this remaster offers a rewarding and engaging adventure that stands the test of time.
