Nintendo has confirmed a new amiibo will launch alongside Donkey Kong Bananza on July 17. Donkey Kong Bananza is an upcoming exclusive for the Nintendo Switch 2, and fans recently learned more about the game during a new Direct.
Throughout the presentation, Nintendo showcased a deep dive into Donkey Kong Bananza before its release. The video detailed various locations players can explore, DK’s new abilities, as well as the introduction to a younger Pauline. It was also revealed that Donkey Kong would feature as a new amiibo, with some useful in-game unlocks.
Donkey Kong Bananza Skill Tree Detailed
NIntendo reveals a ton of new information about Donkey Kong Bananza, including a skill tree system allowing players to power him up.
Releasing on the same day as Donkey Kong Bananza, the Donkey Kong and Pauline amiibo figure joins Nintendo’s toys-to-life collection. Tapping the figure into Donkey Kong Bananza will provide players with Pauline’s Diva dress. As well as giving the younger Pauline a new look, this will also increase the likelihood of discs appearing after defeating enemies. Gamers will also receive four in-game titles that spell out KONG. Each one of the letters is made of a powerful explosive material that, when thrown, lays waste to the environment.
Donkey Kong and Pauline Amiibo Details
- Available July 17, 2025
- Unlocks Diva Dress for Pauline early
- Four Explosive KONG tiles
- All other amiibo are compatible
As well as the new Donkey Kong and Pauline amiibo, Nintendo also confirmed that Donkey Kong Bananza will support every amiibo released so far. If gamers scan in any version of Donkey Kong, Diddy Kong, or King K. Rool, they will be treated to the same explosive KONG titles. This will also work if players use a DK and Diddy Kong Power-Up band from one of the Super Nintendo World Theme Parks. If players tap in any other amiibo, they will be treated to a big material ball designed to help DK move through one of the game’s many levels.
It is worth noting that the Diva dress isn’t tied behind the Donkey Kong and Pauline amiibo, but rather an early access perk. The dress can be unlocked at some point during DK’s adventure, although some eagle-eyed gamers have noticed that Pauline’s Diva Dress bears a striking resemblance to the one worn by adult Pauline in Super Mario Odyssey. While it’s not confirmed, there is speculation that Donkey Kong Bananza could be a prequel to Mario Odyssey, with young Pauline’s appearance adding further fuel to this rumor.
Along with the amiibo announcement, the Donkey Kong Bananza Direct showcased DK’s return to the 3D realm in detail. Fans were treated to numerous announcements, including the new abilities in Donkey Kong Bananza, as well as the colorful cast of characters that can be encountered on DK and Pauline’s adventure.
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OpenCritic Reviews
- Top Critic Avg: 91 /100 Critics Rec: 99%
- Released
- July 17, 2025
- ESRB
- Everyone 10+ / Fantasy Violence, In-Game Purchases
- Developer(s)
- Nintendo EPD
- Publisher(s)
- Nintendo
WHERE TO PLAY
The big guy is back! Donkey Kong swings onto the Nintendo Switch 2 system with a brand-new action adventure.
Help Donkey Kong make his way through the depths of the Underground World. The deeper he goes, the more amazing places he finds! There's no shortage of things DK can pulverize with his powerful punches. Break on through this truly destructive adventure.
Behold the golden bananas! The mysterious group, known
as VoidCo, has its eyes on this
prized bunch. But no one messes with DK's favourite food!
Golden bananas? The whole island was buzzing about the discovery of this tasty treasure. But then, distaster struck! During the chaos, VoidCo stole every breathtaking bunch of bananas. Now Donkey Kong must venture deep underground to get them back!
- Number of Players
- 1-2 players
- Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date
- July 17, 2025
- Platform(s)
- Nintendo Switch 2
