Donkey Kong Bananza Adds Diddy Kong and Dixie Kong: Nintendo Direct Reveals Character Roster and Release Date

Donkey Kong Bananza: Diddy Kong and Dixie Kong Join the Adventure, Release Date Announced Nintendo fans received exciting news during the latest Nintendo Direct, as the company officially confirmed the return of Diddy Kong and Dixie Kong in the much-anticipated Nintendo Switch platformer, Donkey Kong Bananza.

Developed by Nintendo, this upcoming installment continues the long-standing Donkey Kong series and promises a fresh adventure featuring both beloved classic and new characters. The June 2024 Nintendo Direct presentation showcased several new details about Donkey Kong Bananza, spotlighting fan-favorite characters Diddy Kong and Dixie Kong.

While the extent of their roles in the storyline remains to be seen, the footage revealed that both will be actively participating in the game's action.

Notably, one late segment in the broadcast depicted Donkey Kong racing against Diddy Kong and Dixie Kong, providing a glimpse of the energetic multiplayer dynamics expected in the final game. Along with the return of Diddy Kong and Dixie Kong, Donkey Kong Bananza will include an expanded roster of characters.

Pauline, familiar to players as a key figure from the Mario and Donkey Kong franchises, will serve as Donkey Kong's primary companion throughout the journey.

Longtime favorites such as Cranky Kong and Rambi will also make appearances, adding to the nostalgia for dedicated fans.

In addition, the presentation introduced new faces like Grumpy Kong and Poppy Kong, as well as adversaries affiliated with the enigmatic VoidCo, led by the mysterious Void Kong. Nintendo set the official release date for Donkey Kong Bananza as July 17, 2025.

The game will be available exclusively for the Nintendo Switch, accessible via physical retail and the Nintendo eShop.

This latest entry is poised to build on the commercial and critical success of previous Donkey Kong titles, such as Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze, which has achieved strong sales milestones on the Switch platform. The confirmation of iconic characters and the unveiling of a diverse cast reflect Nintendo’s ongoing commitment to celebrating the franchise’s rich history while innovating for new audiences.

As outlined by the Nintendo Direct recap, fans can expect a mix of classic Donkey Kong platforming, new adventure elements, and the signature vibrant gameplay that defines the series. Stay tuned for further updates as more gameplay footage and character details for Donkey Kong Bananza are revealed ahead of its 2025 launch.

Donkey Kong Nintendo Switch Nintendo Nintendo Direct Donkey Kong Bananza Switch Diddy Kong Dixie Kong Pauline VoidCo Rambi Cranky Kong Grumpy Kong