You can dive in right now! Nintendo is reviving the nostalgia of Donkey Kong Country with Bananza’s very first DLC. The DK Island + Emerald Hunt expansion arrives today, September 12, along with a free demo of Bananza.

Donkey Kong’s return is far from forgotten. The Japanese giant’s gorilla mascot hadn’t seen a dedicated game in 11 years, ever since Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze launched on Wii U in 2014 and was re-released on Nintendo Switch four years later. After Bananza’s big success, Nintendo isn’t letting go. Yes, the company has officially announced the first DLC for Donkey Kong Bananza.

The announcement was made during the latest Nintendo Direct, where a short preview instantly triggered waves of nostalgia among longtime fans. While the original campaign sent players to the brand-new Isla Ingote and even the center of the planet, this DLC takes a more classic route: environments and situations inspired by the iconic DK Island.

But it’s not just a tribute. The DLC brings new challenges and trials, with the highlight being the “emerald hunt,” a mode that introduces roguelite-style gameplay.

Donkey Kong Bananza – DK Island + Emerald Hunt Launches Today

Best of all, Nintendo didn’t want to wait until next year to expand one of its 2025 heavy-hitters. Donkey Kong Bananza is getting the DK Island + Emerald Hunt DLC today, September 12, with launch timing still to be confirmed. Nintendo is also rolling out a completely free demo of the base game on Nintendo Switch 2.

Donkey Kong Bananza has already become one of the year’s most celebrated releases, considered a frontrunner for Game of the Year. Now, with DK Island + Emerald Hunt, Nintendo shows it is serious about keeping the adventure alive. Returning to such a beloved setting bridges tradition and innovation, cementing Donkey Kong Bananza as one of the company’s best-managed franchises.

Source: 3djuegos