Nintendo Direct Drops a Surprise: New 2D Donkey Kong Game Announced for Switch

In a move that delighted long-time fans, Nintendo stunned the gaming world this morning with a surprise announcement during its latest Nintendo Direct presentation: a brand-new 2D Donkey Kong game is headed to the Nintendo Switch. Simply titled *Donkey Kong Country: Jungle Jive*, this marks the first original 2D entry in the iconic platforming series since 2014’s *Tropical Freeze*, and it’s already drawing comparisons to the series’ golden era on the Super Nintendo.

Set for release in early 2025, *Jungle Jive* returns to the franchise’s side-scrolling roots but brings with it updated visuals, new co-op mechanics, and an all-new jazz-inspired soundtrack. Developed in collaboration with longtime partner Retro Studios, the game promises to be both a nostalgic trip and a fresh spin on a beloved formula.

The announcement trailer kicked off with Donkey Kong bouncing through a vivid, animated jungle filled with new enemy types and whimsical, rhythm-based environmental challenges. New playable characters—Dixie Kong and Cranky Kong—were also shown, each offering unique abilities to solve platforming puzzles and engage in coordinated co-op moves.

One of the most talked-about features following the Direct is the “Rhythm Rumble” mode—an optional feature in which players enhance their platforming flow by syncing jumps, attacks, and dodges to a dynamic jazz beat that evolves with the level. According to developers, this isn’t just a gimmick, but a gameplay mechanic that can unlock bonus stages and higher rewards for skilled players.

Social media exploded within moments of the reveal, with “Donkey Kong” trending worldwide on X (formerly Twitter). Fans flooded comment sections with enthusiasm, many noting the game’s vibrant hand-drawn art style and the return of composer David Wise, who crafted the musical soul of the original *Donkey Kong Country* trilogy.

With *Jungle Jive*, Nintendo is signaling a resurgence for Donkey Kong, one of its most legacy-packed franchises. And while fans are still clamoring for news of Metroid Prime 4, this unexpected announcement has more than swung momentum in the Switch’s favor as the console enters its twilight years.