Donkey Kong Bananza Earns Impressive Famitsu Review Scores Ahead of Nintendo Switch Release

Donkey Kong Bananza, the latest entry in Nintendo’s iconic Donkey Kong series, is already making waves in the Japanese gaming press ahead of its highly anticipated launch on the Nintendo Switch.

Developed under Nintendo’s meticulous standards of quality, this 3D platformer has been at the center of excitement following its announcement in a recent Nintendo Direct presentation. In a significant endorsement for the new title, Japanese gaming magazine Weekly Famitsu has published one of the game’s first comprehensive reviews.

Weekly Famitsu, renowned for its in-depth critique and influence in the video game industry, employed its well-established system of four reviewers to evaluate Donkey Kong Bananza.

The resulting scores—a 9, 10, 10, and 9—amount to an impressive overall rating of 38 out of 40.

Such a high score places Donkey Kong Bananza among the most critically acclaimed releases on the Nintendo Switch platform this year. According to their review, Famitsu’s panel praised Donkey Kong Bananza for its striking production values and attention to detail.

The magazine noted the game's exceptional level design, vibrant worlds, and polished gameplay mechanics, highlighting how these aspects enhance the overall experience for both long-time fans and newcomers to the franchise.

While the reviewers applauded the game’s technical execution and presentation, they observed that its narrative depth did not quite reach the same level as its visuals and gameplay. In Famitsu’s analysis, the magazine stated, "Donkey Kong Bananza stands out for its craftsmanship and vibrant worlds, though its storyline takes a backseat to the gameplay experience." This summary aligns with the series’ tradition of prioritizing engaging platforming and creative level design over complex storytelling. Donkey Kong Bananza’s high praise from one of Japan’s most respected gaming publications bodes well for its performance both in critical reception and in sales when it hits the Nintendo eShop and retailers.

With previous Donkey Kong titles having reached significant milestones on Nintendo hardware, the latest installment is poised to follow in their successful footsteps. Fans can look forward to reading additional reviews as the game officially debuts on the Nintendo Switch.

As always, players anticipating Donkey Kong Bananza can expect Nintendo’s hallmark quality, bringing new platforming adventures to the beloved franchise.

Stay tuned for further coverage and our own in-depth review once the title becomes available.

Donkey Kong Nintendo Switch Nintendo Donkey Kong Bananza Famitsu Switch Bananza Weekly Famitsu