After months of speculation surrounding Donkey Kong and Pauline’s upcoming adventure, Nintendo has finally revealed which team is behind Donkey Kong Bananza for the Nintendo Switch 2.

At a recent press event, the company confirmed that the game is being developed by the same team responsible for Super Mario Odyssey, according to Eurogamer. While the studio name wasn’t explicitly stated, VGC reported that Nintendo mentioned the development team is located in Tokyo, strongly suggesting that Nintendo Entertainment Planning & Development Tokyo is handling the project. However, a Nintendo spokesperson declined to clarify whether it’s the exact same team or a different division within EPD Tokyo.

Donkey Kong Bananza begins on Ingot Isle, where a discovery of mythical proportions has just occurred: golden bananas buried deep within the caves. Naturally, Donkey Kong is on the scene—but just as he’s about to indulge in the treasure, a sudden storm flings him even deeper underground. There, he meets Pauline, a mysterious new ally and gifted young singer. Together, they’ll explore the massive Underground World through a mix of smashing, jumping, and harmonious collaboration.

As Donkey Kong, players can utilize powerful abilities like the Dive Punch to tunnel through terrain, roll past obstacles, and unleash Hand Slaps to uncover hidden secrets. You can even rip up the ground to throw at enemies or surf across it with the Turf Surfing mechanic. These powers can be combined for chaotic and strategic gameplay. Meanwhile, Pauline uses her singing voice to enhance DK’s strength and trigger temporary transformations. Collecting gold increases their Bananergy, which fuels these musical transformations. Each form has unique abilities: Kong Bananza grants super strength, Zebra Bananza boosts speed and dashing, while Ostrich Bananza enables flight and lets DK drop explosive egg bombs.

Donkey Kong Bananza will launch on Nintendo Switch 2 on July 17.

Source: Gematsu, Eurogamer, VGC