Donkey Kong Country Returns HD: Swinging high

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Back in 2010, Donkey Kong Country Returns was a demanding platform game that gave many players a run for their money. When it was ported to the 3DS in 2013, it continued to be tough but rewarding. Now that it’s available on the Switch, it promises to challenge your platforming abilities once more. Despite multiple updates over the years, it maintains the essential elements that made the original Donkey Kong Country series popular and enjoyable 15 years ago. It offers a nostalgic feel of classic 90s platformers while incorporating intricate level designs and puzzles to make gameplay more engaging.

If you’re thinking about revisiting this remastered game, bear in mind that it retains its original format, so you won’t find any fresh additions. On the flip side, if you’re new to it, get ready for an engaging and challenging platformer experience that stands out as one of the best on a Nintendo console.

Platform Perils

The game Returns is quite demanding due to the necessity of perfecting its control mechanics and timing your jumps appropriately. This is a common trait among platformers, but the game may unexpectedly introduce hectic sequences or tiny platforms that demand exceptional accuracy to navigate, making it difficult rather swiftly if you don’t develop a strong understanding of your speed and momentum. In essence, after playing for a few levels, it becomes evident that while the controls are fundamentally simple, they need meticulous mastery to truly excel.

PROS:

  1. classic and inventive DKC level design and puzzles that push your platforming skills;
  2. 3DS modes and improvements come included along with new levels;
  3. two modes to play as for some assistance during extra difficult levels.

CONS:

  1. nothing really new was added to the game beyond what the 3DS did back in 2013;
  2. co-op mode makes playing as solo DK extra challenging;
  3. some levels are super tough and require lots of trial and error.

This game, named Returns, is both delightful and challenging, appealing to a wide range of players yet capable of being frustrating at times. Navigating through each of the 80 levels may seem straightforward as it only involves reaching the end goal; however, this proves more difficult than expected due to the unique challenges presented in each level. These challenges include new enemies, environmental hazards, and gimmicks that change every time you adapt to them. Some stages can be particularly tricky with precise timing for ledge puzzles or mastering the skills of barrel rockets and mine-carts. Essentially, the game demands that you learn the layout of each level and avoid losing health or falling to your demise. Despite its simplicity in design, it necessitates much experimentation and persistence to conquer.

Completing a stage in a game might seem sufficient, but the challenge doesn’t end there. The game additionally asks you to gather everything it presents, which isn’t just about spelling out “Kong” or locating all hidden puzzle pieces before reaching your destination. It’s unlikely you’ll find them all on your first try (unless you’ve played the game before and memorized their locations), but instead, you’ll need to carefully examine each stage to identify where a puzzle piece might be concealed. Some of these are even found in hard-to-reach spots, forcing you to hone your skills in jumping and managing momentum once more.

Jungle Japes

These collectibles enhance the game’s complexity, open up new stages, but they also preserve the traditional feel of the classic Donkey Kong Country while adding a touch of excitement for those seeking an increased challenge. It’s worth noting that the locations of these puzzle pieces are ingeniously designed, bordering on devious, making it necessary to pause your gameplay and scrutinize your surroundings thoroughly to find them all. In fact, some puzzles necessitate you to slow down and blow out candles or dandelions to unveil hidden areas – a small inconvenience that temporarily halts the game’s action, but these are the only instances where Returns seems to stumble slightly in its flow.

As a gamer, if you find the game challenging, remember you’ve got the choice to switch to “Modern Mode”. This mode grants an extra life and allows access to helpful items from Cranky’s Shop, including one that shields you from falls – perfect for those moments when you need a bit of help in Classic Mode. On the other hand, playing in Classic Mode delivers the authentic Wii experience with minimal aid, but keep in mind, it comes with only basic assistance. And let’s be honest, who wants to deal with motion controls? The main drawback is that you can’t toggle between modes freely; you must pick your mode before starting a new game file.

In a cooperative mode, the game allows for two players, one controlling Donkey Kong (DK) and the other, Diddy Kong. Diddy has a rocket hover ability that’s useful when you need extra distance coverage. When playing solo, Diddy can be found in each level, riding on DK’s back to provide this ability during long jumps. However, if another player decides to play, Diddy loses his ability, putting the single player at a disadvantage, an unusual sensation considering cooperative modes typically make games easier. Moreover, due to the game’s fluid nature, lagging behind can cause one player to go off-screen and then be teleported to the leading player. This can lead to players dying because they can’t see where they are.

Final Thoughts

Apart from the enhanced graphics that make the game appear more vibrant and detailed on the Switch, Returns doesn’t seem to bring much new to the table compared to its 2010 version. The soundtrack remains unchanged, still sounding fantastic after all these years. The Modern Mode included in the game was actually developed for its 3DS version, so it’s not something entirely fresh either. Essentially, aside from some updated visuals, Returns is quite a minimalistic title. The issue arises when the game is priced as if it were offering a new experience.

Reframing the situation: It appears that Nintendo chose to launch a revamped version of Returns towards the tail-end of the Switch’s lifespan, possibly as a simpler project before diving into new Switch 2 titles. Yet another perspective could be that this serves as an elegant conclusion for the series, given it released Tropical Freeze at the start of the Switch in 2018. No matter the motivation, it’s heartening to witness a game like Returns remaining popular 15 years post-launch, as it underscores the series’ ability to deliver an exceptional gaming experience when executed skillfully through level design, creativity, and charm.

In essence, playing Donkey Kong Country Returns HD is an optimal choice if you haven’t encountered it before. The game offers a superior experience with its enhanced 3DS modes, levels, and original mechanics, combining the best aspects from its earlier incarnations in one polished package. For newcomers, this version is highly recommended. However, if you’ve already played it, you might prefer to hold off until the Switch 2 reveals what fresh adventure awaits Donkey Kong.>

All things considered, experiencing Donkey Kong Country Returns HD is a top choice for first-timers. This game provides an exceptional experience with its refined 3DS modes, levels, and original mechanics, blending the best elements from its earlier versions in one well-crafted package. If you haven’t played it yet, this version is a must-try. On the other hand, if you’ve already experienced the game, you might want to wait for the Switch 2 to see what new adventure is planned for Donkey Kong.>

Or:

Taking everything into account, playing Donkey Kong Country Returns HD is an excellent choice if you haven’t tried it yet. This game boasts improved 3DS modes, levels, and original gameplay, offering the best aspects from its previous two versions in a high-quality package. Newcomers should definitely give it a go. If you’ve already played it, though, you might want to wait for the Switch 2 to learn about any new adventure planned for Donkey Kong.>

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2025-01-20 18:02