Nintendo has announced that a brand new 3D Donkey Kong game, titled Donkey Kong Bananza, will be an exclusive title for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 console. The game is set to release on July 17th, just over a month after the Switch 2's launch on June 5th.

Donkey Kong Bananza is a 3D platformer that seems to take inspiration from DK's appearance in The Super Mario Bros. Movie. According to the game's description, players will "explore a vast underground world—by smashing your way through it!" The game's trailer, released on Nintendo's YouTube channel, showcases DK's new abilities, including scaling walls, picking up and tossing rocks to defeat enemies and break through obstacles, and digging into the ground with his fists.

The trailer also hints at the inclusion of old-school 2D sections and mine cart rides, adding variety to the gameplay experience. The game's visuals and character designs appear to be full of energy, with expressive animations and vibrant colors. While it's a shame that Donkey Kong Bananza won't be a launch title for the Switch 2, the short wait until its release should be worth it for fans of the series.

The announcement of Donkey Kong Bananza comes as part of a larger reveal of the Switch 2's features and games lineup. The console itself will launch on June 5th, priced at $449.99, and will feature a 1080p 120Hz display, 4K dock, and mouse mode, among other improvements. Other notable games coming to the Switch 2 include Hollow Knight: Silksong, which is set to launch in 2025, and upgraded versions of the console's best Zelda games.

The release of Donkey Kong Bananza on the Switch 2 marks a significant milestone for the Donkey Kong franchise, which has been a beloved part of Nintendo's gaming lineup for decades. With its innovative gameplay mechanics and vibrant visuals, the game is likely to appeal to both longtime fans of the series and new players alike. As the Switch 2's launch approaches, gamers can look forward to a summer filled with exciting new titles and experiences.

For more information on Donkey Kong Bananza and the Nintendo Switch 2, be sure to check out our coverage of the Switch 2 Direct event, which revealed a wealth of details about the console and its games lineup.