Donkey Kong Bananza review - delirious destruction derby takes hammer to platforming conventions

The article discusses the new Nintendo Switch 2 game, Donkey Kong Bananza. It highlights that the game, developed by the team behind the acclaimed 3D Mario series, is Nintendo's first major single-player game for the new console. While some fans may have concerns about the decision to prioritize a Donkey Kong game over another Super Mario Odyssey, the article suggests that Donkey Kong Bananza subverts traditional platforming conventions. The game allows players to freely demolish and reshape the environment, with Donkey Kong's powerful fists capable of tearing through hills, lawns, and even rocks. This gives the game a "surreal freeform audacity" that sets it apart from a typical 3D platformer. The article suggests that Donkey Kong is less a platforming mascot and more of a "potassium-powered level editor," providing players with a unique and destructive experience. Overall, the article paints Donkey Kong Bananza as a bold departure from the platforming genre, with Nintendo's flagship character taking a more disruptive and experimental approach to level design and gameplay.