# TLDR Review: Donkey Kong Bananza

*Published: 2025-07-21 | Updated: 2025-07-21 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/reviews-tldr/donkey-kong-bananza*

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## Product: Donkey Kong Bananza
**Brand:** Nintendo

## Pros
- Considered the best platformer by a long-time gamer, surpassing titles like Mario Galaxy and Odyssey.
- Features unique gameplay mechanics like 'turf surfing' and transformations that enhance abilities such as smashing and flying.
- Extensive exploration and discovery opportunities create an addictive gaming experience.
- Combines elements from Mario, Zelda, and DK Country for a diverse and rich platforming experience.
- Graphics are visually appealing and inspired by 90's Rare games, bringing nostalgia to players.
- Offers fun and creative character mechanics with engaging level design.
- Strong contender for Game of the Year; highly recommended for Nintendo fans and platformer enthusiasts.
- Provides a solid experience and is considered a top-tier 3D platformer.
- Engaging and entertaining gameplay suitable for both individual players and families.
- Features a fresh and creative story with charming chemistry between DK and Pauline.

## Cons
- The sound effects and music are enjoyable but not as memorable as previous DK Country titles.
- Occasional drops in frame rate from 60fps to 30fps when accessing the map.
- Parents may find it less entertaining to watch their children play.

## Bottom Line

Donkey Kong Bananza Physical is a strong contender for Game of the Year, offering a vibrant, engaging, and addictive gameplay experience that combines the best elements of classic platformers. It's a must-have for Nintendo Switch 2 owners and fans of the genre, providing hours of fun for both veteran players and newcomers. Whether you're in it for the nostalgia or the new mechanics, this game delivers on all fronts.

## Pros vs Cons at a Glance

| Pros | Cons |
|------|------|
| Considered the best platformer by a long-time gamer, surpassing titles like Mario Galaxy and Odyssey. | The sound effects and music are enjoyable but not as memorable as previous DK Country titles. |
| Features unique gameplay mechanics like 'turf surfing' and transformations that enhance abilities such as smashing and flying. | Occasional drops in frame rate from 60fps to 30fps when accessing the map. |
| Extensive exploration and discovery opportunities create an addictive gaming experience. | Parents may find it less entertaining to watch their children play. |
| Combines elements from Mario, Zelda, and DK Country for a diverse and rich platforming experience. |  |
| Graphics are visually appealing and inspired by 90's Rare games, bringing nostalgia to players. |  |
| Offers fun and creative character mechanics with engaging level design. |  |
| Strong contender for Game of the Year; highly recommended for Nintendo fans and platformer enthusiasts. |  |
| Provides a solid experience and is considered a top-tier 3D platformer. |  |
| Engaging and entertaining gameplay suitable for both individual players and families. |  |
| Features a fresh and creative story with charming chemistry between DK and Pauline. |  |

## Current Prices

| Retailer | Price | Availability |
|----------|-------|-------------|
| Amazon | $69.00  | Check |
| Walmart | $69.00  | Check |
| KaterUSA | $69.95  | Check |
| Best Buy | $69.99  | Check |
| Books A Million | $69.99  | Check |
| Bull Moose | $69.99  | Check |
| Game Continuum | $69.99  | Check |
| GameStop | $69.99  | Check |
| HotSpot Electronics | $69.99  | Check |
| J&L Game | $69.99  | Check |
| Macy's | $69.99  | Check |
| Nintendo | $69.99  | Check |
| POPnGAMES | $69.99  | Check |
| Shipt | $69.99  | Check |
| Target | $69.99  | Check |
| HHgregg Electronics | $77.43  | Check |

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*About this review: We pulled together findings from professional and user reviews, and cross-referenced them with ShopSavvy's pricing data from thousands of retailers to give you the short version.*