Nintendo recently shared exciting new gameplay details for Donkey Kong Bananza during a Nintendo Direct presentation. The game will feature Super Mario Odyssey's Pauline as your sidekick character.

This younger version of Pauline, previously leaked by Nintendo and then removed from the internet, will play a significant role in the game. It remains to be seen how this 3D platformer fits into the broader Kong storyline.

Pauline will have the ability to transform DK into different forms using her singing talents. Players can expect DK to turn into a charging zebra or a flying ostrich that can drop egg bombs. Additionally, Pauline can be controlled by a second player in a co-op experience where her vocals become explosive blasts to assist DK in his destructive endeavors.

One of the new gameplay features revealed is the ability to skate on pieces of the environment torn out by DK and even connect them to create new structures like bridges. Another exciting addition is the DK Artist mode, allowing players to unleash their creativity by crafting statues out of stone with Bananza's destruction effects.

Returning classic characters such as Cranky Kong and Rambi the Rhino have been spotted, along with the inclusion of Diddy Kong and Dixie Kong. While their exact roles are still unknown, they are set to make an appearance in the game.

Moreover, a new version of the iconic DK Rap from Donkey Kong 64 will be featured in Bananza. Fans are eagerly awaiting to see if composer Grant Kirkhope will be credited for this rendition.

Although the Nintendo Direct did not reveal the specific development team behind Donkey Kong Bananza, fans have speculated that it could be the talented crew behind Super Mario Odyssey. The return of Pauline in the game might be a hint towards the development team.

Alongside the game launch, Nintendo also announced a Donkey Kong Bananza amiibo figure featuring DK and Pauline. This figure will be available for purchase and unlocks a costume for Pauline earlier than usual. Additionally, all other compatible amiibo figures will spawn helpful terrain material in the game.

Donkey Kong Bananza is set to release on July 17, exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2.