Nintendo Goes All In on Donkey Kong Redesign Seen in Nintendo Switch 2 and Mario Kart 9 First Look

Nintendo is wholeheartedly embracing the redesigned Donkey Kong, first glimpsed by fans in the Mario Kart 9 gameplay showcased during the Nintendo Switch 2 reveal. For years, Donkey Kong’s design remained consistent across various titles, including Mario Kart 8, Mario Tennis, and Donkey Kong Country Returns. However, Nintendo is now shifting towards a new aesthetic, reminiscent of the popular The Super Mario Bros. Movie.

Initially seen only in Mario Kart 9, this revamped Donkey Kong is now featured on a range of newly revealed merchandise. As highlighted by Nintendo Life, Reddit user cookiemaster221 shared images of these products, commenting, "History is being rewritten in front of our very eyes."

The merchandise reveals a friendlier Donkey Kong, notably with a softened brow replacing his previously furrowed expression. Online comments reflect a mixed reaction. Some users compare the change to a "reverse Kirby treatment," noting the shift from angry to more relaxed. Others express nostalgia for the classic design, appreciating its blend of kindness and strength. However, many are receptive to the new look, suggesting it aims for a more playful and less intimidating appearance.

The merchandise offers the clearest view of the redesign since the brief Mario Kart 9 appearance. A more detailed look at the new Donkey Kong in action is expected in April during a Nintendo Direct focused on the Switch 2.

This console reveal trailer offered only a few glimpses of the Switch 2's capabilities, primarily focusing on its visual design. However, it confirmed backward compatibility, revealed a mysterious new button on the Joy-Cons, and validated existing theories regarding the controller's potential use as a mouse.