Donkey Kong Country Returns is the only game in the Donkey Kong Country Returns series not available on the Switch. That’s about to change as Donkey Kong Country Returns HD is finally releasing for Nintendo’s hybrid console.

Donkey Kong Country Returns originally released on the Wii in 2010, and has been on several other Nintendo systems since then, including 3DS and Wii U. The price Nintendo is asking for this particular version of Returns on Switch has been a sticking point for some (including me), but there’s no denying the quality of the game itself. It’s one of Nintendo’s best 2D platformers.

Donkey Kong Country Returns HD releases for Nintendo Switch on January 16, 2025. Check out the launch trailer below:

A BARRELFUL OF PLATFORMING FUN

Stomp enemies, blast out of barrels, ride mine carts, and more in Donkey Kong Country Returns HD for Nintendo Switch!

This visually-enhanced version of Donkey Kong’s platforming adventure combines selected features from both the Wii and Nintendo 3DS releases, including the extra levels from the Nintendo 3DS version!

BANANA BANDITS ABROAD!

The villainous Tiki Tak Tribe have hypnotised the residents of Donkey Kong Island and made off with Donkey Kong’s precious banana hoard!

It’s up to DK and his best bud Diddy Kong to track down the bandits and show them what happens when you mess with a Kong’s prized stash!

DONKEY KONG ISLAND

Featuring 80 levels across nine different worlds, each with a dastardly boss battle at the end, the Kongs will have to be at their best to bring back their bananas. Gathering every secret, collectible and Time Attack medal will require some serious platforming panache too!

SECRETS GALORE

Collect puzzle pieces to unlock dioramas and images in the galleries, and hunt down all the K O N G letters in each world to unlock a secret level. There are a few different things to look out for as you progress…

BUDDY UP

Pass a controller to a friend or family member to have them lend a hand as Diddy Kong in local co-op. Diddy can use his jet pack to help land tough jumps, and fend off enemies with his trusty peanut popgun.

CRANKY KONG’S SHOP

Give Cranky Kong a visit and he’ll sell you some helpful items in return for the shiny banana coins you find. There are extra life balloons, invincibility potions and other knick knacks that might help you out as you make your way through the island.

BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

As well as the upgraded visuals, Donkey Kong Country Returns HD brings together elements of both the Wii and Nintendo 3DS versions of the game:

  • Use motion or button controls (or both!) for ground pounds, rolling, and blowing. Professor Chops will show you the way!
  • Tackle eight additional levels, originally found in the Nintendo 3DS release.
  • Play in Modern mode to make use of additional hearts and items, or Original mode for a tougher challenge.

[Nintendo]