Donkey Kong Bananza Review Roundup: A Smashing Success for Switch 2
- Jul 17 2025
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Nintendo's latest exclusive, Donkey Kong Bananza, launched today on the Switch 2, marking Donkey Kong's triumphant return to a full-fledged 3D platformer for the first time since the Nintendo 64 era. Developed by the team behind Super Mario Odyssey, the game emphasizes destructible environments, punch-heavy gameplay, and exploration in vibrant, multi-layered worlds. Players take control of DK as he smashes through obstacles, collects bananas and fossils, and battles bosses in a quest to save his homeland from an diabolical enemy. With a Metacritic score of 91 based on 83 positive critic reviews, Donkey Kong Bananza is being hailed as one of the Switch 2's first must-play titles and firmly in the hunt for a Game of the Year nomination.
Critic Consensus: Innovative Destruction and Pure Nintendo Magic
Critics are overwhelmingly positive, praising the game's core destruction mechanic as a fresh evolution of platforming. It draws comparisons to Super Mario Odyssey for its open-ended exploration and polish, while standing out with DK's raw power and chaotic fun. Many highlight the satisfying controls, vibrant visuals, and inventive level design, though some note minor issues like a weaker story or occasional camera hiccups in dense destruction sequences. Here's a selection of key reviews:
IGN (10/10): "Donkey Kong Bananza is a truly groundbreaking 3D platformer, with satisfying movement, powerful abilities, impressive destructible environments... Every element comes together in perfect harmony to create Nintendo Switch 2's first masterpiece." Full review: https://www.ign.com/articles/donkey-kong-bananza-review
GamesRadar+ (4.5/5): "The central destruction mechanic is so much fun, and smart level design keeps it delightful from beginning to end with an adventure rivaling... Destruction isn't just a flashy gimmick for the Minecraft generation, it's one of the best inventions Nintendo has had in years." Full review: https://www.gamesradar.com/games/donkey-kong/donkey-kong-bananza-review/
GameSpot (9/10): "Donkey Kong Bananza is a raucous, wildly inventive, and propulsive platformer that reboots one of Nintendo's most iconic mascots." Full review: https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/donkey-kong-bananza-review/ (via YouTube embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OjAi8kt_8z8)
Siliconera (Superb): "Donkey Kong Bananza is not only one of the best Switch 2 games in 2025, it will be one of the best titles released this year on any platform." Full review: https://www.siliconera.com/review-donkey-kong-bananza-is-superb/
Eurogamer: "A brilliant core mechanic and clever design twists make Bananza a delightfully sticky 3D platform adventure topped off with a sweet central... narrative." Full review: https://www.eurogamer.net/donkey-kong-bananza-review
Famitsu (38/40): Early Japanese review notes "exhilarating gameplay," "environmental destruction is fun," and "music is great," but mentions the story lacks depth and the main route is easy, with challenging side levels. Full details: https://ryokutya2089.com/archives/88768
- Video Games Chronicle (VGC): "DK's most memorable adventure in decades... A heartfelt narrative with charming characters, a strong roster of unique worlds to discover, amazing..." Full review: https://www.videogameschronicle.com/review/donkey-kong-bananza-review/
Overall, Donkey Kong Bananza looks like a highlight of 2025, blending nostalgia with innovative mechanics that showcase the Switch 2's power. If you're a fan of platformers, or Nintendo's creative flair, this seems like a no-brainer pickup. Get out there and enjoy smashing your way to those bananas!
