Nintendo has officially pulled back the curtain on new details for the upcoming Donkey Kong Bananza on the Nintendo Switch 2, confirming a highly anticipated character inclusion: Pauline. Previously rumored to make an appearance, the New Donk City mayor is set to play a significant, playable role in the game, joining Donkey Kong as his dedicated co-op partner.
Revealed during a recent Nintendo Direct presentation focused on the game, Pauline will feature prominently in the adventure. Players will see her in two forms: first as “Odd Rock,” a small purple, gem-like creature cursed by the enemy apes known as Void Co., and also in a human form. Notably, this human portrayal shows Pauline looking considerably younger than fans have previously seen her, strongly suggesting that Donkey Kong Bananza is set in the past, potentially even predating the original 1982 arcade classic.
Pauline’s Unique Musical Gameplay
Pauline isn’t just along for the ride; her role is critical to both the story and gameplay. Acting as DK’s charge and sidekick, her primary ability is tied to her talent as a singer. She aims to reach the Planet’s Core in pursuit of her dreams, and her singing voice becomes a powerful tool throughout the journey.
Here’s how Pauline’s musical abilities integrate into the gameplay:
Treasure Finding: Using a sonar-like shout, Pauline can help players locate hidden treasure and guide them towards their next objectives.
Combat & Interaction: Her voice is a direct weapon. In the two-player co-op mode, the second player controls Pauline, utilizing the Switch 2’s Mouse Mode capabilities (via the Joy-Con 2) to direct her vocal powers. Shouting words like “YEAH!”, “WOW!”, and “BAM!” transforms these exclamations into physical projectiles that can damage enemies and interact with the environment, even allowing players to “chip away” at certain objects.
Item Unsealing: Her singing can also be used to unseal specific items found throughout the levels.
This unique mechanic of using a character’s voice for both utility and combat has led to the game being described as a “third-person shouter.”
Co-Op and Other Features
The confirmed two-player co-op mode positions Pauline as a support character, with control mechanics noted as being similar to Cappy’s role assisting Mario in Super Mario Odyssey*. The second player controlling Pauline will assist DK with attacks and collecting the hundreds of items scattered across the levels.
Adding further value, Nintendo confirmed Donkey Kong Bananza will support GameShare, including a notable feature allowing local co-op play between a Nintendo Switch 2 console and an original Nintendo Switch (Switch 1). While online GameShare requires both players to be on Switch 2, this cross-generational local compatibility is a welcome addition.
Alongside Pauline’s reveal, the recent Direct showcased many other exciting features coming to Donkey Kong Bananza. Players can expect a wide range of Donkey Kong’s signature moves, temporary “Bananza Transformations” (like Kong, Zebra, and Ostrich forms), encounters with the villainous Void Co., and a variety of collectibles like Banandium Gems and Chips, Gold, and Music Discs (yes, the DK Rap is back!). The game also features a robust Photo Mode, Difficulty Options including an Assist Mode, Amiibo support (unlocking outfits and items), and a creative “DK Artist” mode utilizing the Switch 2 Mouse Mode for sculpting.
Players will even be able to customize Pauline’s look with different outfits.
Donkey Kong Bananza is slated as a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive and is set to launch on July 17. With Pauline joining the fray with such a distinct musical and vocal-based co-op role, the game is shaping up to be a unique entry in the Donkey Kong series.
