Frequently asked questions
Does Donkey Kong Bananza have co-op?
Yes. A second player controls Pauline from Donkey Kong’s shoulder, aiming vocal blasts that copy and fire surrounding material, per Nintendo’s multiplayer guide. Locally, two players share a pair of Joy-Con 2 controllers; online co-op works through GameShare over GameChat, Insider Gaming explains, and only one player needs to own the game.
Is Donkey Kong Bananza made by the Super Mario Odyssey team?
Yes. Nintendo confirmed to Video Games Chronicle that Bananza comes from the team behind Super Mario Odyssey, Nintendo EPD Tokyo, with Odyssey director Kenta Motokura returning as producer. It is the studio’s first Donkey Kong game, started after Odyssey wrapped.
How long does it take to beat Donkey Kong Bananza?
Plan on 20 to 25 hours to roll credits at a normal pace, according to GameSpot’s chapter breakdown. A rush to the final boss takes 8 to 10 hours, while completionists report 40 to 80 hours hunting every Banandium Gem and fossil.
Is Donkey Kong Bananza exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2?
Yes, it runs only on Switch 2, with one wrinkle: GameShare lets a friend on an original Switch join a local co-op session as Pauline without owning the game. The full single-player experience still requires Switch 2 hardware.
Does Donkey Kong Bananza have DLC?
Yes. The DK Island & Emerald Rush expansion launched September 12, 2025 at $19.99, adding a roguelike Emerald Rush mode, collectible fossils, and DK Island itself. Nintendo has kept it active into 2026 with limited-time event updates, including a Super Mario crossover.