Nintendo launched a dedicated Donkey Kong Bananza Direct today, unveiling fresh insights into the title’s mechanics. A key revelation confirmed that Odd Rock, introduced in April’s teaser, isn’t a geological feature but a youthful incarnation of Pauline.

This iteration of the iconic character isn’t the seasoned performer from Super Mario Odyssey—she’s an aspiring vocalist stranded underground. The duo’s mission involves thwarting Void Kong’s subterranean ambitions while guiding Pauline to safety, forming the narrative backbone of the adventure.

Gameplay demonstrations highlighted dynamic cooperation: DK leverages brute force to reshape terrain, while Pauline manipulates objects using acoustic waves. By partnering with Giant Elders, Pauline unlocks transformative “Bananza” states for DK—starting with Kong Bananza, amplifying his size and destructive prowess to obliterate obstacles.

Zebra Bananza prioritizes velocity, enabling DK to sprint atop water and unstable platforms. Ostrich Bananza grants aerial mobility, including egg-based attacks. Transformations require Bananergy, a resource replenished by gathering in-game currency. Players can toggle forms freely, encouraging strategic experimentation.

Exploration rewards include Banandium Gems (and their fragmented Chips), gold reserves, fossilized relics, and timed trials. These collectibles convert to skill points, fueling upgrades for DK’s toolkit—terrain surfing, double-jumps, and enhanced demolition.

Co-op mode integrates Pauline as a secondary character, though her role is ancillary: she remains mounted on DK, deploying sonic pulses to interact with puzzles and foes. Nintendo also confirmed cross-device sharing, permitting multiplayer on Switch 2 systems (locally or online) and local-only pairing for original Switch units.

The 18-minute presentation expanded significantly on early previews. Wccftech’s Nathan Birch previously noted, “Bananza’s mechanics hint at intricate puzzle-solving—carving paths via explosives, physics, and creativity. The demo likely scratches the surface of DK’s capabilities.” The Direct validated this, teasing deeper gameplay possibilities.

With an arsenal of abilities and transformative mechanics, Nintendo appears poised to deliver a layered platformer. Donkey Kong Bananza arrives July 17, 2025.