Nintendo is rekindling the age-old rivalry between Mario, also known as the original Jumpman, and his classic nemesis, Donkey Kong, with the announcement of an updated version of the iconic Mario vs. Donkey Kong game, which will release exclusively on Nintendo Switch on February 16.
This revival was unveiled during the recent Nintendo Direct presentation, confirming its return two decades following a release on the Game Boy Advance in 2004, confirming the earlier leaks.
The premise of the new Mario vs. Donkey Kong game remains consistent with its classic roots: the mischievous Donkey Kong has pilfered Mini-Mario toys, hiding them across the world. Players will take on the role of Mario, navigating his way through a series of puzzle-based platform stages, braving various obstacles, levers, and platforms, and retrieving the mini-Marios from their adversary.
In comparison to later entries in the Mario vs. Donkey Kong series, this updated version draws its inspiration from the original. The gameplay feels reminiscent of the beloved Donkey Kong ’94, where Mario’s parkour-like movements are central to solving intricate puzzles, enabling him to advance to each level’s end. Leveraging switches, dodging foes, and tackling challenges is essential to unlock pathways and progress.
Yet, it’s not all about looking back; this edition of Mario vs. Donkey Kong has introduced new twists and turns. One of the most eagerly anticipated features is the inclusion of a local co-op mode. Now, players can team up with friends; one can control Mario and the other controlling Toad, working in tandem to navigate levels, solve puzzles, and recover the stolen toys from Donkey Kong. This dynamic addition not only amplifies the gameplay experience but also fosters collaboration and strategy.
Nintendo’s commitment to innovation is evident through the game’s enhanced graphics. Even though the gameplay is still very much that of a 2D platformer, the visuals have been revamped with full-on 3D graphics. This not only offers a fresh look but also modernizes the game for a new generation of players, all while retaining its cherished essence.
The announcement of Mario vs. Donkey Kong’s return to Nintendo Switch came as a delightful surprise to many after rumors of a new Donkey Kong game floated about in recent weeks. The revelation of this updated version, which intertwines the legendary feud between Mario and Donkey Kong, aligns with these predictions.
Beyond the main game, fans can look forward to confrontations with Donkey Kong in Mario vs. Donkey Kong, which is a throwback to the confrontational boss battles that the original was celebrated for. Such encounters will require both players to combine action and observation, ensuring they have strategized their moves adequately before diving into the face-off.
Having been a staple of Nintendo’s gaming legacy, Mario vs. Donkey Kong is poised to become another gem in the Switch’s extensive collection of puzzle games. Its launch will mark the series’ first appearance on the Nintendo Switch, and it stands as the foremost main entry since the release of Mario vs. Donkey Kong: Tipping Stars for 3DS and Wii U in 2015.
In anticipation of its release, Nintendo fans can already place their preorders on the Nintendo eShop.
Given the rich history, revamped features, and the promise of collaborative gameplay, Mario vs. Donkey Kong is shaping up to be a must-have for both new and returning fans.
It remains to be seen if Nintendo will release a special-themed Nintendo Switch OLED, like the Mario Red Switch OLED, to commemorate the release of Mario vs. Donkey Kong.
