Donkey Kong Country Returns HD: our review of the thundering adventure on Nintendo Switch

Donkey Kong Country Returns HD, developed by Retro Studios and published by Nintendo, returns in an HD remastered version for explosive action. Available since January 16, 2025 on Nintendo Switch. Find out what we think.

It's the triumphant return of Donkey Kong, on Nintendo Switch! The boisterous ape comes to console with Donkey Kong Country Returns HD, the high-definition remastered version of the classic Donkey Kong Country Returns originally released on Wii in 2010.

This action-platformer features Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong on a frantic quest to recover their banana stash, stolen by the despicable Tiki Tak tribe. Available since January 16, 2025 on Nintendo Switch, this title promises an enhanced and enriched gaming experience.

Donkey Kong Country Returns HD trailer

In Donkey Kong Country Returns HD, players can embark on this thrilling adventure solo or as a duo, thanks to local cooperation. The game features 80 colorful levels, including extra levels from the Nintendo 3DS version. This classic platformer features a linear adventure, in which players must clear obstacles, jump on enemies' heads, and reach the end of the course after collecting various items. Each level tests players' skills and team spirit.

This HD remaster is aimed at both long-time fans and newcomers to the world of Donkey Kong. Improved graphics and additional levels add a new dimension to this Nintendo classic. The game features two different modes, one in the enhanced version, and the other in the original version, which uses the Wii game mode. In practice, there is little difference between the two versions.

Donkey Kong Country Returns HD is a classic platformer in the tradition of similar Nintendo games. The various levels can be replayed several times to obtain all the rewards, and discover the hidden spaces. The monotony of the gameplay is broken by a few levels that offer a different gaming experience: levels on rails, levels with barrels, levels in the air... The nine worlds (beach, jungle, cliff, factory, volcano, cave...) each offer different challenges.

An old-fashioned platform game, with a character often more popular with children, it may seem simple enough. But don't be fooled: this is one tough title! From the very first world, the levels are sometimes tough, and require patience. You have to die and try again, over and over again, to master the rhythm of certain levels, to understand how to beat enemies... Nintendo's challenge is sometimes frustrating, but always fun, and the levels follow one another at a satisfying pace.

We were unable to test the two-player co-op mode.

Get ready to dive into an action-packed quest with Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong with Donkey Kong Country Returns HD, on Nintendo Switch.