Donkey Kong Bananza Announced as Nintendo Switch 2 Exclusive, Pauline Confirmed as Key Character

Nintendo has officially unveiled Donkey Kong Bananza, the latest entry in the iconic Donkey Kong series, set to arrive exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2.

Slated for release in the coming months, Donkey Kong Bananza has quickly become one of the most anticipated titles for Nintendo's next-generation hardware, following an extensive gameplay demonstration during recent Nintendo Treehouse streams. Building on the franchise's storied platforming legacy, Donkey Kong Bananza promises to deliver both classic play and fresh innovations for a new era of Nintendo Switch gaming.

Nintendo has made it clear through its official announcements and gameplay showcases that the game will leverage the enhanced power and features of the Nintendo Switch 2, bringing expanded levels, updated mechanics, and vibrant visuals that set a new standard for the series. In a notable development, the official Nintendo of Korea website inadvertently published an image related to Donkey Kong Bananza, which featured Pauline—a beloved character from the wider Mario and Donkey Kong universe.

The appearance of Pauline in official promotional material has led to increased speculation among fans about her role.

Following the incident, a Nintendo spokesperson reiterated the company's aim to provide surprises for players, stating that more details about gameplay and characters will be revealed before launch. This marks the first time Pauline has been prominently featured in a core Donkey Kong title on a console platform since her resurgence in games like Super Mario Odyssey and Mario Kart Tour.

Her presence—shown alongside the already spotlighted new companion from the Nintendo Treehouse gameplay—indicates she may serve as a critical partner character in Bananza's cooperative or story aspects. Donkey Kong Bananza represents the latest major release developed in-house by Nintendo’s accomplished teams, known for producing some of the most acclaimed platformers in video game history.

With previous Donkey Kong titles such as Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze enjoying both critical praise and strong sales on the original Nintendo Switch, expectations are high for this new adventure on the updated hardware. As the Nintendo Switch 2 lineup continues to take shape, Donkey Kong Bananza stands out as a key exclusive that demonstrates Nintendo’s ongoing commitment to its most beloved characters and franchises.

Players can look forward to more information and surprises about Donkey Kong Bananza as the release date approaches, with regular updates expected through official Nintendo Direct presentations and further Treehouse streams.

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