Flora & Fang: Guardians of the Vampire Garden Pays Homage to Donkey Kong 3 on Nintendo Switch

Flora & Fang: Guardians of the Vampire Garden Revives Donkey Kong 3 Spirit on Nintendo Switch The original Donkey Kong stands as one of Nintendo’s most celebrated arcade classics, resonating with gamers since its landmark 1981 release.

While Donkey Kong’s successors, particularly Donkey Kong 3 from 1983, introduced innovative gameplay—transitioning into a frenetic shoot ’em up starring the bug-exterminator Stanley rather than Mario—they struggled to capture the mainstream appeal and critical success of the original.

Donkey Kong 3's lukewarm reception in North America even led to years of dormancy for the franchise.

Yet, its unique mechanics and charm have since developed a niche, dedicated fanbase. One such fan is indie developer Magnus Fredriksson.

This week, Fredriksson pays tribute to the coin-op era with the launch of Flora & Fang: Guardians of the Vampire Garden on the Nintendo Switch eShop—and simultaneously on Steam.

The game draws clear inspiration from Donkey Kong 3’s unsung gameplay elements while infusing them with a fresh, gothic twist. According to the game's official eShop description, "Flora & Fang: Guardians of the Vampire Garden is a single-player or local co-op adventure, inviting players to step into the roles of two endearing vampire siblings, Flora and Fang.

Together, they undertake the whimsical task of defending their notorious father Dracula’s cherished pumpkin garden." Players will navigate familiar yet revitalized arcade action—reminiscent of Donkey Kong 3’s defensive mechanics—as they fend off forces threatening their supernatural family’s harvest. Offered at a budget-friendly $6.99, Flora & Fang delivers both nostalgia and novelty, inviting returning fans as well as new players to experience refined gameplay inspired by a classic.

While multiplayer options include local cooperative play, the title is equally accessible as a single-player experience, broadening its appeal. This release is another example of Nintendo Switch’s robust support for indie developers and retro homage, echoing the steady stream of inventive titles that have populated the eShop since the platform’s debut.

Flora & Fang: Guardians of the Vampire Garden stands out for its thoughtful approach to game design history and its affectionate reference to a pioneering era of arcade shooters. With Flora & Fang joining the ever-expanding Nintendo Switch library—as well as being available on Steam—Magnus Fredriksson not only honors Donkey Kong 3 but also introduces its core gameplay innovation to a contemporary audience.

For fans of classic Nintendo titles or those seeking a new cooperative adventure, Flora & Fang: Guardians of the Vampire Garden offers a compelling blend of nostalgia and originality.

Donkey Kong Nintendo Switch Nintendo Switch Guardians Flora & Fang Flora & Fang: Guardians of the Vampire Garden Donkey Kong 3 Steam Magnus Fredriksson eShop