Heading into the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, while many were hoping for a glimpse of the next 3D Mario game, we were surprised to see a 3D Donkey Kong title take the spotlight instead. The visuals of *Donkey Kong Bananza* were so impressive that fans seemed content with this unexpected reveal, and the wait for its release won’t be long.
*Donkey Kong Bananza* is set to launch exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2 on July 17, 2025. If you’re among those eager to get a Switch 2 when it launches on June 5, you’ll have to hold out just a bit longer for this title. Nintendo tends to pace out its major first-party game releases during a new console’s launch, and *Bananza* is primed to be the big release for July this year. Pre-orders for the game will become available soon, and you can find all the details you need below.
How to Pre-Order Donkey Kong Bananza
One of the highlights from the recent Direct was the $80 price tag for *Mario Kart World*. Fortunately, *Bananza* will follow the more typical $70 price point for games in the industry these days. Early glimpses suggest that this upcoming Donkey Kong adventure will justify the price, but of course, that’s for you to decide.
If you’re alright with the $70 cost, which is likely for most first-party Switch 2 releases moving forward, be sure to sign up for pre-orders. Although no pre-order bonuses for *Bananza* have been announced yet, this isn’t unusual for Nintendo. Typically, pre-order incentives are tied to specific retailers and are revealed as the release date approaches.
Below, you’ll find a list of retailers where you can pre-order *Donkey Kong Bananza*, along with the price at each location. While pre-orders aren’t live just yet, the store pages are up and ready, so you can grab a copy as soon as it’s available.
Donkey Kong Bananza
- Release Date
- July 17, 2025
- Rating
- Everyone 10+ // Fantasy Violence
- Developer(s)
- Nintendo
- Publisher(s)
- Nintendo
- Number of Players
- Single-player
Nintendo Switch Games with Switch 2 Editions
During the Direct, in addition to *Bananza* and *Mario Kart World*, Nintendo also shared plans for some other popular Switch titles. Four games will be getting Switch 2 versions: *Breath of the Wild*, *Tears of the Kingdom*, *Kirby and the Forgotten Land*, and *Super Mario Party Jamboree*.
These titles will either be priced at $70 or $80 for their new editions. However, if you already own any of these games on the original Switch, you can upgrade to the Switch 2 versions for a smaller fee. The upgrades for *Breath of the Wild* and *Tears of the Kingdom* will each cost $10, or if you have the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack, they will be included at no extra charge. Expect the *Kirby* and *Mario Party* upgrades to cost a bit more due to added content.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Pauline Appear in Donkey Kong Bananza?
Yes, Nintendo has inadvertently confirmed that Pauline will be in *Bananza*. She is known as the mayor of New Donk City in *Super Mario Odyssey* and is the character you must rescue in the original *Donkey Kong*.
Is Donkey Kong Bananza Exclusive to Switch 2?
Yes, *Bananza* will only be available on the Switch 2. It won’t be playable on the original Switch or any other platform.
Will Mario Appear in Donkey Kong Bananza?
While Mario has not been featured in any promotional material for *Bananza*, this does not rule out his presence in the game.
