Round Up: The Reviews Are In For Donkey Kong Bananza

Well friends, the critiques are finally in for Donkey Kong Bananza; Nintendo’s initial genuine 3D platformer for the Switch 2. So, what’s the conclusion?

As of this writing, the game holds a score of 90 on Metacritic, although it’s essential to keep in mind that fresh reviews will probably emerge in the upcoming days, meaning this score could shift in either direction. Nonetheless, it appears that DK’s first 3D adventure in years has been worth the anticipation.

Before we proceed with the roundup, let’s first take a look at our own review. We granted the game a 9/10 and remarked:

“Donkey Kong Bananza is an exceptional re-introduction to the realm of 3D platforming for DK, and arguably the Switch 2’s first true must-play. The punching and smashing is a fleeting gimmick that, once enjoyed, rapidly turns into just another method of exploring the delightfully diverse and beautifully crafted layers.”

Make sure to check out our complete verdict when you have a chance through the link below.

For now, let’s see what some other sources have remarked:

First, we’ll start with IGN, who rated the game a flawless 10/10 while describing it as “a genuinely revolutionary 3D platformer”:

“The head of the gang is back to take names in Donkey Kong Bananza, a stellar sequel to Super Mario Odyssey and a triumphant return for a beloved Nintendo character. It was a daring decision to center the Switch 2’s first 3D platformer on Donkey Kong instead of Mario, but it’s turned out to be the finest choice Nintendo could have made. DK’s rewarding, expressive movement and powerful, dynamic skills forge a genuinely groundbreaking journey. The ambitious, destructible layers of this underground environment are densely packed with rewarding collectibles, abundant charm, and clever challenges that never seem to run out of inventive ideas, even long after the credits roll. Bananza is a continuous crescendo throughout its 20-hour storyline and further, with puzzle-platforming concepts that only become richer as DK and Pauline delve deeper toward the Planet Core. Every aspect unites in complete harmony to create Nintendo’s first Switch 2 masterpiece.”

Next, Siliconera also gave a 10/10 review, stating that Bananza offers “an endless collection of delightful surprises”:

“Venture through a vast underground environment—by smashing your way through it! Bash through practically everything with the sheer force of Donkey Kong! Smash through barriers, carve pathways with your fists, strike straight down into the earth, and even rip off chunks of land to swing around and throw in groundbreaking exploration—the more you break, the more regions you unlock for exploration. Switch 2 version reviewed. Review copy provided by company for assessment purposes.

“Donkey Kong Bananza is an endless array of delightful surprises and demonstrates precisely what the Switch 2 can accomplish.”

VGC rated Bananza with 4/5 stars, noting that it falls “short of Odyssey‘s brilliance,” but remains a “top-tier” platformer:

“Donkey Kong Bananza possesses a lot of spirit – and that can take a game far. While DK’s underground journey doesn’t reach the heights of the masterpiece it draws heavy inspiration from, Bananza is still a thoroughly enjoyable platformer that grants the ape his most memorable adventure in a while, and the best reason thus far to invest in a Switch 2.”

Following that, GameSpot’s 9/10 review is filled with accolades while also mentioning the performance setbacks and camera problems:

“Donkey Kong Bananza presents a fresh beginning for Donkey Kong that’s distinct from the Donkey Kong Country series. The emphasis on destructibility highlights what sets DK apart from other platforming characters–his enormous strength–and providing him a charming sidekick adds unexpected emotional depth to the game. As part of the launch lineup for the Switch 2, this nicely bridges the gap for one of Nintendo’s hallmark substantial single-player experiences. But, more importantly, it’s an outstanding game in its own right, deserving to be mentioned alongside titles like Mario Odyssey as one of Nintendo’s finest recent achievements.”

Eurogamer also heralds Bananza as “one of DK’s finest” in its 4/5 star review:

“When Bananza crashes, it’s absolutely phenomenal. At times it seems to lose its way or fails to build upon some of the excellent foundations it establishes. That’s what keeps a game from being labeled a complete classic in my view – even if it still earns a hearty, full-throated recommendation. And despite my numerous criticisms, it certainly stands as the new greatest Donkey Kong adventure that doesn’t include the word ‘Country’ in its title – which gives it a significant rank indeed.”

Lastly, TheSixthAxis remarks that the game can sometimes lose its way amidst all the havoc, but still awards it a firm 8/10:

“Donkey Kong Bananza is an exhilarating medley of brawling, digging, and platforming. It’s a new form of 3D platformer from Nintendo that, for better or worse, embraces the chaotic destruction of allowing players to tunnel through and reshape the environment.”

Are you eager to delve into Donkey Kong Bananza when it launches on 17th July 2025? Will it be a purchase you make on day one? Share your thoughts in the comments.