Okay, let's be real. We all held our breath for the Switch 2 launch, praying Nintendo wouldn't just give us a warmed-over port of a Wii U game and call it a day. Well, say less. Nintendo dropped "Donkey Kong: Bananza" on July 17, and the internet is absolutely feral. This isn't just a launch title; it might be the reason to own Nintendo's shiny new console. Your wallet is already crying, isn't it?
The Vibe Check: Critics are Screaming
Not me actually refreshing review sites like it's my job. Oh, wait. The consensus? This game absolutely slaps. We're talking perfect scores, with IGN giving it a 10/10. A perfect score on day one? In this economy? The audacity. Critics are calling it the "greatest Nintendo Switch 2 title to date," which, okay, the console is brand new, but the hype is real. They're saying it's the "iconic ape's triumphant return" to 3D platforming, and honestly, we're so here for this glow-up.
The comparisons to "Super Mario Odyssey" are flying, with some reviewers claiming "Donkey Kong: Bananza" is a "worthy Super Mario Odyssey successor." That's some big talk, but the gameplay, a mix of "controlled chaos" and turning "destruction into joy," seems to back it up. DK is entering his main character era, and we have no choice but to stan.
So, Is It *Actually* Good Tho?
Look, critics can be wrong. But early player feedback is basically a mirror image. Gamers are calling this the Switch 2's "first absolute must-play." The FOMO is palpable. People are legit saying this is their "first pick up without question" for the new console. It's a certified system-seller.
A Moment of Honesty, Pls
Let's not get it twisted. Some players are managing expectations, noting it might not be a revolutionary "new Mario" moment that redefines the genre. But as a showcase for what the Switch 2 can do? It's eating. Even the game's director admitted to "occasional technical problems," which is a level of self-awareness we have to respect. So if you see a frame drop while you're yeeting a barrel across the screen, just know it's part of the charm. Probably. 🙃 Bottom line? "Donkey Kong: Bananza" was apparently built for the original Switch but got a major glow-up for the Switch 2, and it shows. It's setting a ridiculously high bar for every other game coming to the console. It’s big, it’s chaotic, and it’s the most compelling argument for trading in your old Switch that we’ve seen yet.
The Final Verdict: Your Bank Account Hates This Game
So, is DK back? Bestie, he never left. He was just waiting to make an entrance. And this time, he chose violence (in the best way possible). Nintendo played its cards right, and now we're all broke. Again. Welcome to the next generation.