As summer rolls around, gamers often seek out thrilling and entertaining options to escape into. This year, Donkey Kong Bananza emerges as a prime contender for your gaming attention. With its multilevel worlds full of exciting adventures, this game promises to provide the perfect distraction and a chance to unleash your inner warrior. Having played alongside my 12-year-old son, I can confidently say that this game is not only entertaining for kids but also incredibly enjoyable for adults. The challenge? Getting my hands back on the controller when he’s around!
My initial encounter with Bananza during an early preview left me impressed, but after weeks of at-home play, I can confidently declare it my favorite Nintendo Switch game in years—perhaps since Super Mario Odyssey. However, there’s a catch: you’ll need the new Nintendo Switch 2 console to experience it. The game is not compatible with the original Switch or any other platforms, which is part of Nintendo's strategy to deliver home run titles for their latest console. Even though I haven’t completed the game yet, it’s already established itself as the best reason to invest in a Switch 2.
Donkey Kong Bananza is set to release tomorrow, July 17, and is currently available for preorder at a price of $70 through Nintendo.com and various retailers. If you're still searching for a Nintendo Switch 2, keep an eye out for restocks as we track availability across different platforms.
The storyline of Bananza is a delightful mix reminiscent of both Zelda and Mario games. Donkey Kong's world faces a unique threat as a menacing group of apes appears following a meteor crash that disrupts a mining operation deep within the planet. Your adventure will take you on a journey through the core of this fictional universe, akin to a Hollow Earth scenario, where you can destroy various elements within expansive 3D maps.
While Bananza isn't a traditional co-op game, it includes an engaging mode where a character named Pauline can assist players by targeting enemies and absorbing powers from surrounding objects. This feature enhances the gameplay experience beyond the simple hat-throwing mechanic found in Super Mario Odyssey. The game allows for local sharing between Switch devices, offering flexibility for playing solo or on two screens.
Developed by the same team behind Super Mario Odyssey, Bananza showcases familiar yet fresh 3D platforming mechanics. Players can navigate through expansive sublevels filled with unique characters, each contributing to the game’s dynamic mechanics. While the levels might not be as whimsical as those found in Odyssey, they are rich with detail and activity.
Jumping and punching are the primary control methods, but players can also unlock various abilities through a skill tree by collecting giant crystal bananas. Similar to Odyssey, players can acquire new outfits that offer perks like cold resistance or faster energy recovery. Each level features goals, sub-bosses, and hidden challenges, encouraging exploration and discovery.
What sets Bananza apart is its quest-driven gameplay, which draws parallels to Zelda games. Players can interact with diverse characters throughout the game, receiving important information and direction for their quests. The 3D map allows for easy tracking of progress and enables players to warp to different locations. As you delve deeper into the game, the mechanics evolve, creating a rich tapestry of adventure.
One of the standout features of Bananza is its refreshing take on the Donkey Kong universe. The game introduces new elements, including magical spirits that grant unique transformation abilities and powers. Accumulating gold allows players to become different spirit animals, each with distinct advantages. After numerous hours of gameplay, I find myself consistently surprised by the content and gameplay variety, making it feel as rewarding as a blockbuster summer film.
Donkey Kong Bananza not only sets the standard for future Nintendo titles but also showcases the potential of the Nintendo Switch 2. It feels like a natural evolution of classic Nintendo gameplay, combining elements from past titles while introducing fresh mechanics. This game, along with Mario Kart World, solidifies the Switch 2's status as a must-have console for avid gamers.
In conclusion, whether you’re a long-time fan of the franchise or new to the Donkey Kong series, Bananza offers an exciting and engaging adventure that is well worth your time and investment. Don’t miss out on this vibrant gaming experience that promises to keep you entertained all summer long!
