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Donkey Kong Country Returns HD, Should You Get it?

Nintendo sometimes knows how to play out scenarios, as shown in the movie Groundhog Da. Over and over again, they put the duplicate titles back on sale, transferring them from one console to another, with minor visual tweaks, often at full price. The latest example is Donkey Kong Country Returns HD, a slightly polished version of the Wii platformer launched in 2010. And it might have been decent news if we hadn't already been able to buy the same game for the 3DS (Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D, 2013) and the Wii U (Nintendo eShop, 2015).


If you want a newer title, check out our Mario & Luigi Brotherhood Review!


What's The Feel?


I can overlook the 3DS version because it added eight extra levels and a "New Mode" difficulty, making the original somewhat challenging game a bit easier. However, the re-release for the Switch adds nothing new compared to the 3DS version except for improved graphics. Enhanced lighting and higher-quality character models are immediately noticeable; that's true. However, some segments, like the water animations, haven't improved much over the original. When I look at images of the original Wii version, I see that the game looked excellent for its time.


Suppose we had at least one of the previous Donkey Kong Country Returns versions in our review database. In that case, I'd stop here, paste a link to that review, and suggest you read it for insights into the gameplay and story since the game hasn't evolved in those aspects.


One of the game's most appealing aspects is its challenge. It's an exceptionally challenging platformer that doesn't forgive many mistakes, but it's the kind of challenge that pushes you to try 'just one more time.' The removal of forced motion-activated actions from the Wii controller has made the game even more enjoyable to play. It's a thrilling experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat.


The Gameplay of Donkey Kong Country Returns HD 


Precision and timing are crucial for most tricky jumps, just as in every Donkey Kong Country game. And, of course, there are the infamous mine cart levels responsible for screams into pillows 20 years later, echoing similar GameBoy experiences with this franchise. It's also worth mentioning some abrupt difficulty spikes in certain levels, which can be frustrating.

Monkey on a vibrant jungle platform scene with palm trees and a wooden airship carrying bananas. Hearts and character icon in top corner.

Familiar mechanics from the SNES era are here, too—like collecting bananas, puzzle elements, and KONG letters, being shot from barrels, and the forward roll attack. Compared to the 16-bit predecessors, silhouette-only levels have been added, featuring characters, enemies, and terrain as mere shadows. Enemies that pop out from behind shadows of objects add an extra element of surprise and challenge—personally, one of my favorite sections.


As in the original, I controlled Donkey Kong, while Diddy hopped onto Donkey's back when I smashed a DK barrel to release him. Once I had Diddy, I could use his jetpack to extend my jumps and slow my falls.


How Is The Coop Mode?


Local co-op play remains the only option—this hasn't changed in the remaster.

The game can be played in co-op mode, where the second player takes control of Diddy, who can move independently but can also jump onto Donkey's back at any time. Unfortunately, local co-op is the only option, so you're stuck finding a roommate to play with. For a remaster costing €60, they didn't even bother adding an online co-op.


The story, like many Nintendo classics, is refreshingly simple. It's a volcanic eruption that awakens the Tiki Tak tribe, a group of tiki masks hypnotizing the island's animals to collect bananas. There's no need to overcomplicate things. The game's message is clear: here are new enemies, now go fight them. It's a straightforward, no-nonsense approach that lets you focus on the fun of the gameplay.


Is Donkey Kong Country Returns HD Harder?


Like the 3DS version, the HD re-release offers a New Mode, which makes it easier for new players to play.


As for the previously mentioned difficulty of the Wii version, the HD re-release, like the 3DS version, includes a New Mode alongside the Original Mode. Instead of the original two hearts, the New Mode gives the two main characters three hearts and adds items like a green balloon to survive falls. These items can be purchased in Cranky Kong's shop between levels, though I avoided them—it felt like I was undermining the original challenge of Returns.


The HD version also brings back the eight extra levels from the 3DS version, along with various galleries of images, music, and videos unlocked by collecting puzzle elements and defeating boss enemies. And that's it for content. Nothing new. Not even the Funky Mode from Tropical Freeze.


In Conclusion

Two cartoon apes, one wearing a red cap and shirt, ride through a jungle. They're excited, with vibrant greenery in the background.

And so, I can conclude this review. This will feel like a belated Christmas gift if you haven't played the original DKC Returns and love platformers. Devilishly challenging sections, excellent controls, and fun gameplay are some of the main virtues of this title. But if you've already had a chance to try DKC Returns before, you can freely skip this remaster. We'll probably get a UHD Deluxe version for the Switch 2 in about five or six years.


Rating: 7.8/10

The game retains its excellent platforming and challenging gameplay but fails to add almost anything new to justify the €60 remaster price.


Recommended Age: 10+

The game's difficulty level and precision mechanics make it best suited for older children and teens who enjoy platforming challenges. Despite that, Donkey Kong Country HD is rated E for everyone.

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