At a recent hands-on event showcasing the much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, one game that many attendees, including myself, had on their bingo cards was a new 3D Mario title. Surprisingly, no such game was unveiled, leading to initial speculation about Nintendo's strategy in launching its next-generation console without a dedicated title for its flagship character, Mario. However, after experiencing the delightful gameplay of Donkey Kong Bananza, it became evident that this new title is more than capable of filling the iconic plumber's shoes.

Donkey Kong Bananza quickly became my personal favorite of the event. Set in a whimsical Kong Kingdom that has recently succumbed to a gold rush frenzy, the game introduces players to a world where characters are fiercely digging for valuable resources, including precious metals and gems. Among these treasures are unique diamond-shaped artifacts reminiscent of bananas, which serve gameplay functions similar to the power moons in Super Mario Odyssey.

The game's central character, Donkey Kong, has received a refreshing redesign that increases his expressiveness, making his antics—whether smashing obstacles, throwing rocks, or battling adversaries—more engaging than ever. What truly impressed me was the astonishing depth of Bananza’s vibrant world. Players not only navigate platforms above ground but can also utilize DK’s powerful smashing ability on specific surfaces to delve underground, unearthing hidden treasures or simply enjoying the thrill of destruction. Each time players discover a banana gem, a nostalgic splash screen accompanied by the iconic phrase, “Oooh, banana!” echoes from Donkey Kong 64, evoking fond memories for long-time fans.

Additionally, Donkey Kong is not alone in his adventure; he is joined by an adorable sidekick that bears a striking resemblance to Cappy, Mario's cap companion from Super Mario Odyssey. This new sidekick adds another layer of fun and exploration to the gameplay.

From the brief demo I had the opportunity to play, Donkey Kong Bananza feels like a more refined, Kong-centric evolution of Super Mario Odyssey. The fundamental gameplay mechanics remain intact—players use their platforming prowess to collect special “jiggies” while facing off against an eclectic group of stylish villains. Minor enhancements, including destructible environments, inject freshness into the gameplay loop, ensuring that it remains engaging and exciting. After polling fellow members of the press at the event, it was clear that the consensus was unanimous: Donkey Kong Bananza was the standout game of the show.