Nintendo Surprises Fans with Shadow Drop of New 2D Donkey Kong Game on Switch

In a move no one saw coming, Nintendo has stealth-dropped an all-new 2D Donkey Kong game exclusively on the Nintendo Switch. Titled *Donkey Kong Country: Rescue Run*, the game became available to download this morning on the eShop with no prior warning — and fans are already going bananas for it.

Unlike recent entries in the franchise, *Rescue Run* returns to the classic side-scrolling roots of the *Donkey Kong Country* series, while introducing new mechanics and crisp, hand-drawn animation. Taking cues from both the SNES originals and the *Tropical Freeze* reboot, *Rescue Run* features tight platforming, a new companion system, and environmental puzzles across six uniquely themed islands.

Nintendo made the surprise announcement via a short trailer dropped on social media just hours before the game launched. The video showcased Donkey Kong swinging through lush jungles, riding mine carts, and even facing off against a seemingly new villain threatening to capture members of the Kong clan. Players can once again tag-team as DK, Diddy, Dixie, and now a new character, Kip Kong — a nimble, acrobatic member of the Kong family making his debut.

What sets *Rescue Run* apart is its uniquely dynamic level design. With an emphasis on momentum and flow, players chain together vine swings, barrel blasts, and enemy bounces to maintain speed through sprawling stages. For those craving a challenge, the game includes a surprisingly robust time trial mode and hidden bonus stages reminiscent of the series’ most difficult levels.

While there was no advance hype or teaser campaign, Nintendo’s gambit seems to be paying off. Early impressions from both fans and critics are overwhelmingly positive, praising the game’s fluidity, art style, and nostalgic flair.

With this surprise release, Nintendo continues a trend of unexpected drops — proving once again that they’re masters at not only tapping into their legacy IP but also generating instant excitement. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, *Donkey Kong Country: Rescue Run* looks poised to become the next go-to platformer on the Switch.