Kyoto, Japan — Nintendo has bucked its usual trend of keeping game development teams under wraps by unveiling the creators behind the highly anticipated Donkey Kong Bananza. During a recent preview event, the company confirmed that the development team is the same group responsible for the acclaimed Super Mario Odyssey.
Donkey Kong Bananza, set to launch on the Switch 2, is being crafted by the Entertainment Planning & Development (EPD) team, known for producing beloved titles that have defined modern gaming experiences. The announcement lends significant credibility to the project, as Super Mario Odyssey is heralded as one of the standout entries in the Mario franchise, often regarded for its innovative gameplay and engaging design.
Following an extensive hands-on preview, gaming journalist Alex noted that the gameplay felt immersive and enjoyable, describing his experience with Bananza as one that “flew by.” He remarked that even when engaging in repetitive tasks, the enjoyment was undeniable, suggesting that the game’s mechanics may resonate well with players.
In addition to exciting gameplay, Nintendo has shared intriguing details about the game’s storyline, including the introduction of new antagonists known as the Void Company. This group features characters such as Grumpy Kong, Poppy Kong, and their leader, Void Kong, each bringing unique challenges to DK’s adventures.
As anticipation builds, fans of the franchise can look forward to the game’s launch on July 17. The combination of a revered development team and engaging gameplay hints at a successful comeback for the Donkey Kong series.
Nintendo has already established a devoted fanbase with its previous hits, and Bananza could very well become another chapter in the evolution of its iconic characters. With July on the horizon, excitement is palpable for what the iconic plumber’s rival will unveil next in this banana-filled escapade.