Donkey Kong Country Returns HD for the Nintendo Switch arrives in 2025, and while it’s a competent port of a beloved classic, it’s hard to shake the feeling of “been there, done that”. This straightforward adaptation offers little in the way of new content, making it a perfectly serviceable but ultimately underwhelming release, particularly considering the anticipation surrounding the eventual Switch successor.
A Faithful Recreation, for Better or Worse
The original Donkey Kong Country Returns, developed by Retro Studios, was lauded for its challenging level design, tight controls, and gorgeous visuals upon its release on the Wii in 2010. The 3DS port in 2013 added some features like 3D visuals and a new world, but this Switch version seems content to simply upscale the Wii version. This means players can expect the same thrilling mine cart levels, the same frustrating rocket barrel sequences, and the same gorgeous pre-rendered backgrounds. While the HD presentation is certainly welcome, it doesn’t add anything fundamentally new to the experience. The game retains its challenging platforming gameplay, making it a suitable title for those seeking a retro platforming fix.
Comparing the Versions: What’s New (and What Isn’t)
For those who have experienced Donkey Kong Country Returns on previous platforms, it’s important to understand what this HD port offers (and doesn’t). Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Feature | Wii | 3DS | Switch (HD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 480p | 240p (per eye) | 1080p (docked)/720p (handheld) |
| 3D Visuals | No | Yes | No |
| New Worlds/Levels | N/A | Yes (New World) | No |
| Control Options | Wii Remote & Nunchuk, Classic Controller | Handheld Controls | Joy-Con, Pro Controller |
As the table illustrates, the main draw of the Switch version is the improved resolution. While the 3DS version offered stereoscopic 3D, the limited resolution hampered the visual fidelity. This HD port aims to rectify that, offering a crisp and clear presentation. However, the lack of any new content, including the extra world found in the 3DS version, makes this release feel somewhat barebones.
A Stopgap on the Road to Switch 2
The timing of Donkey Kong Country Returns HD’s release raises eyebrows. With rumors and speculation swirling around the successor to the Nintendo Switch, releasing a relatively barebones port of a decade-old game feels like a placeholder in a year that could otherwise feature more ambitious titles. While it’s certainly a fun game, and its replayability remains high thanks to the challenging level design and collectable KONG letters and puzzle pieces, it feels like a missed opportunity to truly showcase the Switch’s capabilities, especially so late in its lifecycle. This begs the question: why not a brand new Donkey Kong adventure, or perhaps a remaster of the original Donkey Kong Country trilogy?
Should You Buy It?
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to purchase Donkey Kong Country Returns HD depends entirely on your personal gaming history and preferences. If you’ve never experienced this excellent platformer before, then this HD version is a fantastic way to do so. The tight controls, challenging gameplay, and charming presentation make it a worthwhile addition to any Switch library. However, if you’ve already played it to death on Wii or 3DS, there’s little incentive to double-dip unless the upgraded visuals are a major selling point for you. With a potential new console on the horizon, it might be wise to save your money for the next generation of Nintendo games.
For those looking for a fun and familiar platforming experience, Donkey Kong Country Returns HD delivers. However, for players yearning for something truly new and innovative, it might be best to wait for what the future holds, hopefully in the shape of a new Donkey Kong adventure or a more substantial remaster on future Nintendo hardware.
