In somewhat rapid fashion, Donkey Kong Bananza is already getting DLC. Nintendo confirmed as much in its September 12th Nintendo Direct, adding a playable level based on the iconic DK Island from Donkey Kong 64. This add-on will feature a few new interesting modes, including one with roguelike gameplay. Best of all, the DK Island & Emerald Isle DLC is available later today for purchase.
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DK Island famously hails from Donkey Kong 64, which is to date one of the character’s most popular outings. However, with all the success of Bananza, which has received rave reviews and is positioned as a major awards contender, it’s no surprise that Nintendo is integrating the two best eras of Donkey Kong.
Donkey Kong Bananza‘s DLC Switches Things Up
The gameplay of this new DLC centers on different things than the base game of Bananza did. There’s still some collection and destruction to be done, but there are also timed gameplay loop challenges, specifically on Emerald Isle. The Banandium Gold is now emerald, and it’s up to Donkey Kong to set records for collecting it within a certain time frame. There are milestones to meet or else the mode ends, similar to Mario Kart World’s Knockout Mode.
It is a bit surprising that Nintendo is already giving Donkey Kong Bananza paid DLC. It’s not surprising that it’s getting it, since it’s been hugely popular for the Nintendo Switch 2, but the game just came out on July 17th. It’s been less than two full months, and there’s already new content. That’s great news for fans of the game, but it is a little unusual.
This is likely because Nintendo is clearing the way for a 3D Mario title. Right now, the 3D platforming genre is dominated by Donkey Kong, but as successful as that’s been, it pales in comparison to the popularity of Nintendo’s flagship character. By speedrunning the DLC, Nintendo can get beyond Bananza far enough to release the next 3D platformer for Mario.
Either way, it’s significant for Nintendo because it should extend the shelf life of Bananza. It was a relative risk to skip a potential 3D Mario on Switch 2 out of the gate in favor of Donkey Kong, but it has so far worked out pretty well. This DLC is evidence that there’s demand for more content and that Nintendo really did put a lot of effort into the experience.
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Image courtesy of Focus Features.
