Video games aren’t like movies. Remakes are almost always welcomed. That’s the case with the upcoming Donkey Kong Country Returns HD.
The Nintendo classic is set as one of the very first major releases of 2025. Here are 10 things you need to know about the enhanced version of DKCR.
Release Date: January 16, 2025
Hardcore fans of the original and those who covet major Switch titles have likely been waiting for the New Year with DKCR HD set to release. We’re now less than two weeks away.
Platforms: Nintendo Switch
This one is only coming to the Switch. Rarely will you ever see a Mario, Link, or Donkey Kong game on a non-Nintendo platform, though there are some exceptions.
Developer: Forever Entertainment
A new studio is developing DKCR HD. The original was developed by Retro Studios. Donkey Kong is by far the largest intellectual property Forever Entertainment has handled. The biggest game FE has been involved with is probably the Panzer Dragoon: Remake, which came out about 30 years ago. Also, FE carried publishing duties for that title. It will be interesting to see how FE handles the game.
Gameplay: The original on steroids, hopefully
Most consider this to be a remastered version of the original. For the uninitiated, the original is a side-scrolling game where users control Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong. I wonder if there has been any thought of altering the latter’s name, but I digress.
The gameplay is still based on running, jumping, overcoming mine cart levels, rocket barrels, etc. Here is a look at some gameplay.
Visual Enhancements: Prettier.
Don’t expect anything that makes you wonder if you’ve suddenly purchased a machine more powerful than the Switch. DKCR HD isn’t going to be a massive visual upgrade, but the lighting will be improved, and some of the character models have been updated.
Additional Content: More layers.
This version of DKCR HD includes all the levels from the original Wii and 3DS versions of the game. That extension could be enough of a draw for some fans.
Modes: More difficulty options.
The Switch version will include the mode from the Wii that was viewed as more challenging, but it will also include the simpler 3DS version.
Co-op Play: It’s in there.
Like the original, the remake will support two-player local co-op. One player can control Donkey Kong and the other can control Diddy Kong.
Pre-Order Bonuses: There isn’t a lot here.
- In North America, GameStop offers a DK Barrel Pen Holder with pre-orders.
Fans are Saying: It’s a Pacifier
The Switch has yet to deliver an original Donkey Kong game, and many fans believe this remastered version is being offered to pacify those clamoring for a brand-new DK title.
Once it releases, I’ll monitor the review scores and sentiments from fans.
