Donkey Kong Country Returns HD revitalizes a classic beloved by fans as it makes its debut on the Nintendo Switch. Originally crafted for the Nintendo Wii in 2010, the game saw an enhanced 3D port in 2013 for the Nintendo 3DS. The current Switch version builds upon that foundation, incorporating features from the 3DS release while upgrading the graphics for a contemporary audience.
While many die-hard Donkey Kong enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting a brand new installment in the Donkey Kong Country franchise, the arrival of this remaster is still a cause for celebration. Although it’s uncertain if this HD release portends future entries in the series, it is nonetheless a game that deserves attention. While the core of the experience remains intact, it can be contended that the original’s excellence meant a significant overhaul was unnecessary. Thus, upgrading the graphics and optimizing gameplay for the Switch has proven to be a judicious decision.
Exploring the Storyline and Gameplay of Donkey Kong Country Returns HD
A Jungle Adventure: The Quest to Retrieve Bananas
The narrative of Donkey Kong Country Returns HD revolves around a playful yet urgent scenario revolving around bananas. The Tiki Tak Tribe, a gang of floating Tiki masks with hypnotic powers, has bewitched many jungle creatures to pilfer Donkey Kong’s prized fruit. Joined by Diddy Kong, players must rally to reclaim their stolen bananas, traversing diverse environments including jungles, beaches, factories, and volcanoes.
The game offers minimal backstory regarding the motivations behind the banana theft, yet it implies that these fruits possess magical properties that enhance Tiki Tak Tribe members. Regardless, DK and Diddy are primarily focused on retrieving their beloved bananas, showing little concern for the broader implications.
Gameplay is the standout feature of Donkey Kong Country Returns HD, inviting players to navigate through 80 levels across nine vibrant worlds. Throughout the adventure, players combat enemies, pilot rocket barrels, jump along broken minecart tracks, and even ride Rambi the Rhino. The controls are impressively responsive, whether you’re tasked with blowing flower seeds or maneuvering a rocket-powered barrel through obstacles with agility. Furthermore, the cutscenes have been impressively recreated with stunning new visuals.
Minimal Changes for the Remaster, Yet a Dependable Experience
Ideal for Newcomers to the Franchise
For players familiar with previous versions on the Wii or 3DS, the $60 price tag for this HD remaster might seem excessive. Unlike the 3DS version, which introduced new levels and enhancements, the Switch iteration focuses principally on graphical improvements. While it is undeniably a breathtaking game, the absence of substantial new content may lead some to question its value.
Interestingly, gameplay visuals surpass the quality of the screenshots, showcasing a beautifully rendered world that players can explore.
For newcomers to the Donkey Kong Country series, this remaster serves as an excellent introductory title. Available on the Nintendo Switch, it offers a polished gameplay experience akin to modern gaming standards. Even as someone well-versed in the Donkey Kong legacy, I can appreciate how this edition effectively invites new players to experience its engaging platforming mechanics and entertaining storyline.
Incorporating All Features from the 3DS Edition
Subtle Modifications Enhance the Experience
While this remaster does not introduce any groundbreaking new features, it successfully includes the content added in the Nintendo 3DS remake. The new game mode, now branded as Modern Mode for the Switch, caters to players who find the original game a bit too challenging. This mode bestows DK with three hearts instead of two, and enhances Cranky Kong’s shop offerings, making assistance more accessible to players at each level.
The 3DS version also introduced a useful character, Professor Chops, who provides players with an option to activate Super Guide after only five unsuccessful attempts, down from the previous threshold of nine or ten. In the Switch remaster, this feature is available even more promptly, enabling players to learn from “Super Kong,” an invincible character who demonstrates how to conquer challenging segments, though without retaining any collected items.
Collectibles, Puzzle Pieces, and the Golden Temple Enhance Replay Value
Motivating Factors for Continued Play
One of the highlights of platformers like this is the discovery of secrets and hidden collectibles, and Donkey Kong Country Returns HD excels in this regard. To gain access to the Golden Temple, players must collect all the letters spelling out KONG from each level, yielding a special orb. Alternatively, Cranky Kong offers these orbs for sale, albeit at a premium price.
For those who may struggle to uncover all the elusive puzzle pieces, a helpful parrot named Squawks can be summoned from Cranky Kong’s shop. When activated in levels, Squawks will alert players whenever Donkey Kong approaches an area containing hidden puzzle pieces.
Concluding Insights & Review Score
Screen Rant Awards Donkey Kong Country Returns HD a 7/10
Whether this remaster hints at the potential for further Donkey Kong games on the looming Switch 2 or not, it stands as a commendable revitalization of an already stellar game. The graphical enhancements and fluid gameplay provide a modern feel, even 15 years after the original launch. As a player who enjoyed the Wii version upon its release, I found immense joy in this Switch edition, relishing every moment immersed in its captivating gameplay. It successfully rekindled nostalgic memories while providing a genuinely enjoyable experience that leaves fans craving more from the Donkey Kong Country series.
While the pricing feels slightly inflated—comparable to a brand-new title—especially with many gamers still cherishing their Nintendo 3DS systems, the lack of new content was somewhat anticipated in a remaster. Nonetheless, Donkey Kong Country Returns HD remains a delightful addition to the Nintendo Switch library, providing players with an experience that is both entertaining and engaging.
A digital download code for Nintendo Switch was kindly supplied to Screen Rant for this review.
Source: Nintendo of America/YouTube
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