Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D: a better monkey

When Donkey Kong Country Returns hit the Nintendo Wii back in 2010 it received instant praise for its tight retro level design, colourful presentation and refreshing difficulty level. To everyone’s surprise (sarcasm) Nintendo decided to port this classic to the 3DS.

The premise of the game is simple: Donkey Kong’s bananas were stolen and he wants them back. He sets out on a quest through the island to find the thief; defeating a wide array of memorable enemies on the way.

Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D had me in a state of nostalgia: this is the sort of game most of us grew up with. Simple controls, intricate levels, catchy music and beautiful animations – what more can a gamer ask for?

Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D

While reviewing the game a few noticeable improvements and adjustments came to light. These changes complement the 3DS and makes it more accessible to players of all skill levels.

1. 3D Visuals

The introduction of 3D opens up the vibrant and lively world of Donkey Kong. Players are treated to pleasant animations and effects in the fore- and background of this typical 2D platformer and the sections where the beloved gorilla jumps to the back of the screen is a real treat. Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D is brilliantly presented and will climb deep into the hearts of retro-loving gamers.

Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D

2. New Mode

Donkey Kong Country Returns on Wii is notoriously difficult and while some players enjoy the challenge of the brutal levels most found it too infuriating. To accommodate all players New Mode can be selected when creating a save file. In this mode Donkey Kong receives an additional heart (which equates to one extra hit from an enemy). Additionally instead of a single item up to three items can be equipped before starting a level – potentially increasing your hearts to a whopping nine when paired with Diddy Kong. New Mode relaxes the pace of the game without compromising the taxing level design.

3. New Items

In a further attempt to assist the n00bs three new items can be purchased in the shop with your rare banana coins. The green balloon saves Donkey Kong from a single deadly fall while the Crash Guard Potion prevents the rocket barrel or mine cart from being destroyed with a single hit. Players can also buy Diddy Kong barrels to summon the trusty side-kick on command.

4. New Levels

In addition to the already amazing levels from the original version a couple of extra levels are squeezed into this title. The fast-paced rocket and cart levels feature as highlights of each world and collecting the hidden puzzle pieces and letters spelling KONG ensures for plenty of replays. Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D competes for best platforming game on the Nintendo 3DS – Mario has to start upping his game.

Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D

5. Multiplayer Mode

Two 3DS consoles (each with their own copy of the game) can play cooperatively as Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong. Diddy Kong’s rocket jet-pack allows him to jump further and his impromptu gun fires bananas at enemies. Using two 3DS consoles for multiplayer is a great addition – having another player on your adventure is a great way to get through difficult sections and adds a whole new level of amusement!

In many ways Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D feels like it was supposed to be on the Nintendo 3DS. The stereoscopic 3D effect brings the game to life while still preserving the classic Donkey Kong experience. With snug controls and astounding level designs it’s a must-buy on the 3DS; especially if you missed out on the Wii version.