Pauline Joins Donkey Kong Bananza: Nintendo Switch Co-Op Features and Gameplay Revealed

Nintendo has officially revealed that Donkey Kong Bananza, the highly anticipated next installment in the Donkey Kong series, will feature a new playable companion: a young Pauline.

This confirmation came during the Nintendo Direct broadcast on June 18, 2025, bringing clarity to rumors from earlier this year about Pauline’s prominent role in the upcoming Nintendo Switch title. Donkey Kong Bananza is set for release on July 17, 2025, exclusively for the Nintendo Switch.

Developed by the same acclaimed team behind the critically lauded Super Mario Odyssey, the game marks Pauline’s first major co-starring role alongside Donkey Kong in a mainline platformer.

Her addition introduces not only narrative depth but also innovative gameplay mechanics that leverage her iconic musical talents. In Donkey Kong Bananza, Pauline is far more than just a sidekick.

Throughout the game, her singing abilities work in tandem with Bananergy—a collectible resource shared by Donkey Kong and Pauline—to unlock powerful new forms.

These transformations enable Donkey Kong to overcome obstacles and enemies in novel ways, with Nintendo highlighting several standout abilities: - Kong Bananza: Grants Donkey Kong enhanced strength for tackling enemies and breaking barriers - Zebra Bananza: Boosts DK’s speed, allowing swift dashes across platforms - Ostrich Bananza: Grants DK limited flight and lets him launch Egg Bombs toward foes These transformations represent just a sample of the powers players can expect, with additional abilities available as the adventure continues.

In a nod to cooperative play experiences like Super Mario Odyssey, Donkey Kong Bananza introduces a two-player mode.

By connecting a second Joy-Con, a second player can take direct control of Pauline, utilizing her vocal attacks and supporting DK’s journey.

Notably, the game’s GameShare feature allows local co-op even if only one player owns a copy, ensuring accessibility across all models of the Nintendo Switch, including the original hardware. Nintendo’s Direct presentation demonstrated how Pauline’s abilities not only enrich the single-player experience but also facilitate dynamic teamwork in co-op mode.

This approach underscores the development team’s ongoing commitment to delivering innovative and social gameplay tailored for the Switch’s versatile control schemes. Donkey Kong Bananza will launch globally on July 17, 2025, available via the Nintendo eShop and at physical retailers.

With the introduction of Pauline as a major character and robust co-op options, the platforming icon’s latest Switch adventure promises to captivate series veterans and newcomers alike. Source: Donkey Kong Bananza Direct 06.18.25

Donkey Kong Nintendo Switch Nintendo Donkey Kong Bananza Pauline Switch Nintendo Direct Odyssey team Joy-Con GameShare