Nintendo has just concluded a livestream event, revealing more details about the upcoming Switch 2 console. The highlight of the event was the announcement of a brand-new 3D platformer featuring Donkey Kong, marking the first game of its kind since the release of Donkey Kong 64 on the Nintendo 64 in 1999. Titled Donkey Kong Bananza, this exclusive game will be available for the Switch 2 on July 17, just over a month after the console’s launch.

The game appears to be an exciting addition to the Donkey Kong series, with a significant portion of the environment being destructible, allowing DK to interact and break objects. It also incorporates sidescrolling segments, similar to modern Mario 3D platformers that occasionally delve into their 2D roots. Our hands-on experience with the Switch 2 provided a glimpse into the game’s potential, albeit with the observation that its visual appeal might not be as significantly enhanced by the Switch 2’s upgrades as other games might be. This is not a major criticism but rather an observation worth noting.

The overall aesthetic of Donkey Kong Bananza embodies a funky, cartoonish vibe that fans of the series have come to expect. Notably, the famous Donkey Kong rap was absent from the trailer, although the iconic “ooh banana” sound effect from DK64 made a brief appearance.

The trailer showcases DK engaging in various activities, including climbing the sides of mountains in a manner reminiscent of BOTW-era Link, and exploring different locations such as forests and ice regions. Additionally, the footage introduces what appears to be the meanest-looking Kong character to date.

Although detailed information about the game is currently limited to what was shown in the trailer, the wait won’t be long. Donkey Kong Bananza is scheduled for release on July 17.

Update: April 3, 2025, 10:10 AM ET: This article has been updated with impressions from our hands-on demo with the Switch 2.