Nintendo fans, get ready, Donkey Kong Bananza is officially taking center stage during the upcoming Nintendo Direct.
The new 3D platform adventure, built from the ground up for the newly released Nintendo Switch 2, promises a return to the wild, chaotic charm of Donkey Kong’s past, and we’re finally about to get a deeper look.
Set to air on June 18 at 6AM PT / 9AM ET, the next Nintendo Direct will focus entirely on this title. Nintendo confirmed through their Nintendo Today app that fans will receive “roughly 15 minutes of information about the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 game.” That means gameplay footage, developer commentary, and, if we’re lucky, a few surprises before launch.
Donkey Kong Bananza puts players back in the role of the iconic gorilla as he embarks on a mission to recover stolen banana-shaped diamonds from rival apes. It’s the kind of quirky, banana-fueled chaos the series is known for, but this time in full 3D, something fans haven’t seen since Donkey Kong 64 hit the Nintendo 64 over two decades ago.
That alone makes Bananza a big deal. The last major Donkey Kong release was Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze in 2014 for the Wii U, which later got a Switch port in 2018. While that was a well-received 2D side-scroller, Bananza is going full 3D-platformer, signaling a shift in direction for the franchise.
Details about the game are still limited, but what we know so far suggests a classic platforming experience with updated mechanics for the Switch 2’s improved hardware. Expect smoother movement, better visuals, and new tricks up Donkey Kong’s sleeve.
This new game is being positioned as the first major exclusive for Nintendo’s next-gen console. Launching on July 17, just a month after the Nintendo Direct showcase, it’s poised to help define the early life of the Nintendo Switch 2.
Fans can catch the Direct on Nintendo’s official YouTube and Twitch channels, and with only a short wait until release, the hype is building fast.
Whether you’re a longtime DK fan or just hungry for a new platformer on the Switch 2, Donkey Kong Bananza looks like the jungle-sized adventure worth watching.
Mark your calendar for June 18, you won’t want to miss what’s next for the king of the jungle.
Ethan Cross is a tech journalist and analyst with a passion for gaming, AI, and emerging innovations. With years of experience covering hardware, software, and industry trends, he breaks down complex tech topics into engaging, accessible insights. Whether it’s the latest gaming hardware, smartphone innovations, AI breakthroughs, or startup disruptions, Ethan delivers sharp, in-depth coverage that keeps readers ahead of the curve. His expertise spans gaming reviews, software updates, blockchain, and industry shake-ups, ensuring that no major tech development goes unnoticed.
