Donkey Kong Bananza Set to Thrill on Switch 2: Release Date, Gameplay Details, and Nintendo's Latest Showcase

Nintendo has once again captured the spotlight in the gaming industry as it prepares for the highly anticipated launch of Donkey Kong Bananza, the next chapter in the iconic franchise.

Arriving exclusively on the recently released Nintendo Switch 2, Donkey Kong Bananza is set for a global release on July 17th.

This new 3D platforming adventure is already igniting excitement among fans, thanks in part to Nintendo’s strategic teaser campaign and a series of engaging hands-on previews. Donkey Kong Returns in Full Force on Switch 2 Following the official reveal and Nintendo’s reminder on social media, players have been treated to fresh glimpses of Donkey Kong’s wild antics—including a now-iconic sequence of DK surfing atop a boulder, clearing obstacles in his path.

These action-packed showcases highlight the creative direction and technical prowess Nintendo is bringing to the Switch 2 hardware, promising a game that is both visually impressive and brimming with the series’ trademark humor. Donkey Kong Bananza marks the character’s full return to the spotlight after several years as a supporting player in crossover titles and legacy releases.

Industry hands-on sessions have praised the game’s vibrant and unpredictable energy.

As described in April’s preview: while Donkey Kong has mostly been a background figure in recent years, Bananza signals a revival with exhilarating and approachable gameplay.

Journalists who experienced the game firsthand reported that the level design and mechanics deliver both a satisfying dose of chaos and a much-needed sense of fun—the kind of uplifting gameplay that resonates with both new and veteran players. "This is Donkey Kong’s moment to shine—the preview build delivered pure, stress-relieving joy, blending slapstick action with clever level design.

If the final release continues this trend, Bananza could be DK’s most memorable adventure yet," summarizes one of our recent reports. What to Expect at Launch Donkey Kong Bananza will launch exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2 via both physical releases and the eShop starting July 17, 2024.

The game is poised to leverage the upgraded performance of the Switch 2 platform, featuring expansive jungle environments, inventive boss battles, and a host of secrets for players to discover.

In the meantime, Switch 2 owners can look forward to a robust lineup of first- and third-party titles, including recent hits like Mario Kart World, Street Fighter 6, and Cyberpunk 2077, all available to play as anticipation for Donkey Kong Bananza continues to build.

As Nintendo consistently demonstrates its ability to innovate within classic franchises, Donkey Kong Bananza stands out as one of the most eagerly awaited releases of the year for Switch 2. Stay tuned for more Donkey Kong Bananza updates, including launch coverage, developer interviews, and post-release impressions as Nintendo ushers in a new era for one of its most beloved characters.

Nintendo Switch 2 Donkey Kong Nintendo Donkey Kong Bananza Switch 2 Switch