Donkey Kong Bananza has taken the gaming world by storm on the Nintendo Switch 2, raking in rave reviews and impressive sales. But for long-time fans of Nintendo’s iconic ape, the biggest question has been: what do the visionary artists behind the original, beloved Donkey Kong Country series think of this modern revival? Good news – they’re just as thrilled as everyone else!
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The Legacy Meets the Future: DKC Artists React
It’s clear that the new Donkey Kong Bananza isn’t just a commercial success; it’s also earned the seal of approval from the very people who shaped Donkey Kong’s legendary look and feel. This includes key figures like Kev Bayliss and Steve Mayles, who were instrumental in the original Donkey Kong Country games.
Kev Bayliss: From Concept to Current Approval
Kev Bayliss, the talent responsible for the refreshed Donkey Kong design in the groundbreaking 1994 SNES title, and the creator of the fan-favorite Diddy Kong, has expressed immense satisfaction with the latest iteration of Kong. Having now played Donkey Kong Bananza, Bayliss has officially given the game his stamp of approval, praising its execution and design.
Bayliss began his career at Rare at a young age, contributing to many classic NES titles like Battletoads, WWF WrestleMania, Cobra Triangle, and Time Lord. His work on Donkey Kong Country was pivotal, not only redesigning the titular ape but also introducing Diddy Kong to the world. His influential career also includes contributions to other iconic games such as Killer Instinct, Diddy Kong Racing, and Star Fox Adventures. After leaving Rare in 2005, he joined Playtonic in 2015, continuing his legacy in the industry.
Donkey Kong Bananza's stunning visuals on Nintendo Switch 2, earning praise from the legendary artists behind Donkey Kong Country.
Steve Mayles: A Core Contributor’s View
Kev Bayliss isn’t alone in his admiration. Steve Mayles, brother of Gregg Mayles and a fellow artist on the original SNES Donkey Kong Country trilogy, has also been captivated by Donkey Kong Bananza. Steve’s impressive portfolio includes work on beloved Nintendo 64 titles like Banjo-Kazooie and Viva Piñata: Pocket Paradise for the DS. He co-founded Playtonic in 2014, where he continues to create memorable characters and worlds. His positive reception of Bananza further solidifies the game’s standing among its predecessors’ creators. For more on the original Rare masterpieces, explore a list of best Rare games ranked by fans.
The Enduring Appeal of Donkey Kong
The unanimous praise from these legendary artists highlights the successful blend of nostalgia and innovation in Donkey Kong Bananza. It’s a testament to how modern game development can honor a rich history while pushing boundaries. For gamers who grew up swinging through the levels of Donkey Kong Country, seeing the original creators give their blessing to this new adventure on the Nintendo Switch 2 is truly special.
Have you embarked on Kong’s latest journey on your Nintendo Switch 2? Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the jungle, Donkey Kong Bananza offers a vibrant and challenging experience. If you find yourself in a tricky spot, helpful resources like Donkey Kong Bananza walkthroughs are available to guide you through the banana-collecting fun.
