Published on: May 16, 2025
Super Mario and Donkey Kong: Iconic Nintendo Characters Get Modern Redesigns for Switch
For over a decade, the look and feel of the Super Mario franchise’s core cast have remained comfortably familiar to fans across the globe.
Since the launch of the New Super Mario Bros.
series, Mario, Luigi, Donkey Kong, and other beloved figures have kept their iconic designs largely intact, establishing a visual consistency throughout numerous entries on the Nintendo Switch, Nintendo 3DS, and Wii U platforms.
However, the latest wave of Nintendo releases signals a new era of creativity as the company introduces updated character designs that embrace both nostalgia and modern aesthetics.
Showcased during a recent Nintendo Switch News reveal, a fresh collection of high-definition character renders has caught the attention of the Nintendo community and industry observers alike.
The images display the main Mario cast in striking detail, with enhancements that reflect both technological advances and Nintendo’s dedication to quality.
While many familiar faces maintain their classic appearance, updated lighting, texturing, and subtle adjustments demonstrate a leap forward in visual fidelity.
Among the most notable changes is Donkey Kong’s striking new design, prepared specifically for Donkey Kong Bananza and recently featured in Mario Kart World.
Donkey Kong’s character model has received significant attention, from expressive posing to refined details, marking one of the most substantial visual updates for the Kong family in years.
Alongside Donkey Kong’s transformation, Diddy Kong has also undergone a thoughtful redesign.
As highlighted by Nintendo Switch News, Diddy Kong’s revamped appearance brings subtle improvements to his teeth, feet, and signature red cap.
These refinements aim to harmonize the character’s look with the legacy qualities that long-time fans appreciate, while ensuring he aligns visually with the newly updated Donkey Kong.
These updates aren’t merely cosmetic.
They serve as a renewed commitment from Nintendo to keep its most iconic properties feeling fresh, relevant, and technologically impressive.
With highly anticipated releases like Super Mario Bros.
Wonder already providing fans with a reimagined Mario, and continued innovations showcased through recent Nintendo Direct presentations, it is clear that the company is prioritizing both quality and authenticity as it prepares for the future—especially with anticipation for the rumored Nintendo Switch 2 on the rise.
As Nintendo continues to optimize its character art and expand its hardware capabilities, fans can look forward to seeing these revitalized designs in action across upcoming titles and platforms.
The attention to detail demonstrates why Nintendo remains a leader in combining creativity with game development excellence, ensuring that Mario, Donkey Kong, and the rest of the Nintendo roster will look better than ever for years to come.
Donkey Kong Nintendo Switch Nintendo Mario Switch Super Mario Diddy Kong